Cozy Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

Warm up with this easy Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole recipe, perfect for a comforting, hearty family dinner. This dish brings together tender cabbage, rich ground beef, and a creamy sauce that melts all the flavors into a cozy, satisfying casserole. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a homestyle meal that fills the kitchen with delightful aromas and leaves everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food Classic: This recipe combines familiar ingredients in a creamy casserole that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for both busy weeknights and lazy weekends.
• Family-Friendly: The mild flavors and hearty texture appeal to kids and adults alike, making it a crowd-pleaser.
• One-Dish Meal: No need for complex side dishes – everything comes together in one satisfying casserole pan.
• Budget-Friendly: Ground beef and cabbage keep costs low without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple yet essential ingredients come together to create a dish that’s rich in flavor and texture. Each component plays its role—from the fresh cabbage adding vibrant color, to the ground beef giving satisfying protein, and the creamy sauce tying everything perfectly.

• Ground beef: Choose lean ground beef to keep the casserole hearty but not greasy.
• Cabbage: Fresh green cabbage provides a tender-crisp texture and subtle sweetness.
• Onion: Adds a savory base and natural sweetness when cooked.
• Garlic: Enhances the aroma and depth of flavor in the casserole.
• Butter: Essential for creating the creamy roux that thickens the sauce beautifully.
• Flour: Used to thicken the creamy sauce smoothly without lumps.
• Milk: Creates the luscious creaminess that brings the casserole together.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste and balance all the flavors.
• Cheese (optional): A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or mozzarella adds a golden, melty finish on top.

Variations for Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, letting you tweak ingredients or swap them out based on what you have or your dietary preferences. Feel free to experiment and make it truly your own!

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat without overpowering the dish.
• Vegetarian Swap: Replace ground beef with cooked lentils or mushrooms for a meatless but still hearty casserole.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in cream cheese or sour cream for a richer, tangier sauce.
• Herb Infusion: Stir fresh thyme, dill, or parsley into the creamy sauce for added freshness and complexity.
• Low Carb: Swap flour for almond flour or use heavy cream instead of milk to keep it keto-friendly.

How to Make Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage and Beef

Start by chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and dicing the onion and garlic. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and set the beef aside. In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent, then add the cabbage and cook until it starts to soften but still retains a bit of crunch.

Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for about a minute. Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps, until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Return the cooked ground beef and sautéed cabbage mixture back into the sauce. Mix well so the beef and cabbage are evenly coated in the creamy sauce. If you want, add half the shredded cheese into the mixture for a gooey, cheesy touch.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the entire mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese evenly on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, with a lightly golden crust on top.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps the dish settle and makes serving easier. Then, dig in and enjoy that creamy, savory goodness!

Pro Tips for Making Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cabbage and quality ground beef make all the difference in flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcook Cabbage: Keep it slightly crunchy to prevent a mushy casserole.
• Make a Smooth Sauce: Whisk the milk slowly into the butter-flour mixture to avoid lumps in your cream sauce.
• Drain Excess Fat: This keeps the dish from becoming greasy and overly heavy.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to cool slightly before serving makes portioning neater and enhances flavors.

How to Serve Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of green color and a fresh bite that complements the creamy casserole perfectly.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple green salads, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions in ramekins for a charming presentation or place the casserole on a rustic wooden board surrounded by pickles and tangy condiments for a fun family-style meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooling, cover the casserole tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It reheats beautifully, making it ideal for quick dinners later in the week.

Freezing

This recipe freezes well! Portion it into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, just be sure to cover them to keep moisture locked in.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and gives you a leaner option while still maintaining that hearty texture in the casserole.

Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead, store it in the fridge, and enjoy leftovers throughout the week or freeze portions for later.

What can I use if I don’t have fresh cabbage?

Frozen cabbage can be a handy substitute; just thaw and drain it well before using to avoid extra moisture.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the butter with dairy-free margarine and use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk to keep it creamy without dairy.

How spicy is this casserole?

By default, this recipe is mild and kid-friendly, but you can easily add spices or hot sauce to suit your taste preferences.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a cozy dish that’s both nourishing and simple, this Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is exactly what you need. It’s the kind of meal that feels like home and feeds the soul. Give it a try and savor every creamy, flavorful bite with your loved ones!

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