Name: Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped; 1 pound ground beef; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown rice); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup beef broth

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole is packed with classic, comforting flavors that everyone will love. The tender cabbage pairs beautifully with savory ground beef and rice, all smothered in gooey melted cheddar cheese. The casserole is not only delicious but also budget-friendly, making it the perfect choice for family meals or meal prep. Plus, it’s versatile—there are many variations to customize it to your tastes. It’s a simple recipe that will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation.

Ingredients

Before you start, gather these basic, wholesome ingredients:

1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
1 pound ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 cup cooked rice (white or brown rice work well)
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup beef broth

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray and set it aside.
Cook the Beef and Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble the ground beef and add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 6-8 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
Add the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet with the beef mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage starts to wilt.
Mix in Tomatoes, Rice, and Seasoning
Pour in the diced tomatoes (including their juices), cooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and let it simmer for another 5 minutes.
Assemble the Casserole
Transfer everything from the skillet into the prepared baking dish. Pour the beef broth over the top.
Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole.
Bake
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the casserole sit for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Variations

There are many ways to customize this casserole to suit your tastes:

Low-Carb: Skip the rice or substitute with riced cauliflower for a keto-friendly version.
Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
Veggie-Loaded: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or shredded carrots to the cabbage.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for added flavor.
Mexican-Inspired: Swap Italian seasoning for taco seasoning and use a blend of cheddar and pepper jack cheese. Top with sliced jalapeños for extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the casserole for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the whole casserole (covered) in a 350°F oven until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter version of this casserole. Just be sure to season it well for added flavor.

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the casserole up until the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add 10–15 extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Can I freeze Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole?

Yes, you can freeze the casserole. After baking, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

My casserole turned out watery. How can I fix it?

If your casserole seems watery, let it rest for 10–15 minutes to allow the rice and cabbage to absorb the extra moisture. For future batches, you can drain the tomatoes or use less broth.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check that your broth and seasonings are gluten-free if you're particularly sensitive.

Can I use pre-cooked rice for this recipe?

Yes, using pre-cooked rice works great. It's a perfect way to use up leftover rice from a previous meal.

How can I make this casserole spicier?

To add spice, simply mix in red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños with the beef mixture.

What’s the best cheese for this casserole?

Shredded cheddar cheese gives the casserole its signature melt and flavor, but you can mix it with other cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a unique twist.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian protein like lentils or a meat alternative.

How do I prevent my casserole from being too greasy?

Drain excess fat from the beef after cooking to avoid a greasy casserole. Also, use lean ground beef or opt for ground turkey to reduce fat content.

Conclusion

Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy nights and family gatherings. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and packed with flavors everyone will enjoy. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite. With endless variations and the ability to make it ahead of time, it’s a versatile and satisfying dish that will leave everyone asking for more!

Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole