Description
A comforting and hearty casserole combining lean ground beef, tender cabbage, cooked rice, and melted Colby Jack cheese baked in a flavorful tomato sauce. This cabbage beef bake is an easy one-dish meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
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1 ½ pounds lean ground beef
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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½ cup minced onion
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
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½ teaspoon dill
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1 teaspoon salt
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¼ teaspoon black pepper
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24 ounces marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
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1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
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2 cups cooked rice
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2 tablespoons butter
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6 cups roughly chopped cabbage
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2 cups shredded Colby Jack cheese
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.
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Add minced onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, dill, salt, and pepper to the beef. Sauté until onions are softened and fragrant, about 3–4 minutes.
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Stir in marinara sauce and diced tomatoes with juice. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend flavors.
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In a separate large pot, melt butter and sauté chopped cabbage until slightly softened, about 5–7 minutes.
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Combine cooked rice and sautéed cabbage with the beef and tomato mixture. Stir well.
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Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded Colby Jack cheese evenly on top.
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Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
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Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
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Use cauliflower rice instead of cooked rice for a lower-carb version.
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Add red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
- Leftovers store well refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Sautéing, Baking
- Cuisine: American