If you’re craving a warm, satisfying meal that’s packed with hearty flavor and nourishing ingredients, this Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is about to become your new go-to comfort dish. Featuring tender green cabbage, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce, this casserole hits every note of a soul-warming family dinner. It’s budget-friendly, easy to make ahead, and sure to please even picky eaters.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, preparing meals for the week, or just want a cozy dish to curl up with on a cold night, this recipe checks all the boxes. Let’s dive into why this casserole deserves a spot in your regular dinner rotation.

Who This Recipe Is For

This recipe is perfect for:

• Busy families who want a filling, wholesome meal on the table with minimal prep.

• Meal preppers looking for dishes that reheat well and store beautifully.

• Budget-conscious cooks who need low-cost ingredients that stretch.

• Anyone craving a satisfying combination of meat, cheese, and vegetables in one delicious bake.

Why You’ll Love This Creamed Cabbage Casserole

• Rich and creamy without being too heavy.

• Perfectly balanced with protein, vegetables, and dairy.

• Comforting flavors that feel like home.

• One-dish wonder – fewer dishes, more flavor.

• Customizable to suit your dietary preferences or pantry availability.

Ingredients Breakdown

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef – Lean or regular; drain fat after browning.

• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped – About 6 cups; tender and slightly sweet when cooked.

• 1 small onion, diced – Adds a flavorful aromatic base.

• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the savory depth.

Sauce Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing aromatics.

• 2 tablespoons butter + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Forms a classic roux for thickening the sauce.

• 1 ½ cups milk – Whole or 2% recommended for creaminess.

• ½ cup sour cream – Adds tang and richness.

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – Melts beautifully and adds sharpness.

• ½ teaspoon paprika + ½ teaspoon dried thyme – Flavor enhancers that complement the beef and cabbage.

• Salt and black pepper to taste – Essential seasoning.

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional) – For a golden, flavorful topping.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet

• Medium saucepan

• Mixing spoon or whisk

• Large mixing bowl

• 9×13-inch baking dish

• Cutting board and knife

• Colander (for draining cabbage)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Aromatics and Beef

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and garlic for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat and set the meat aside.

Step 3: Boil the Cabbage

While the beef is cooking, bring a few cups of water to a boil in a pot. Add the chopped cabbage and cook for 5–6 minutes, until just tender. Drain and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

In the same skillet used for the beef, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, whisking constantly to create a roux. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously. Cook for 3–5 minutes until thickened and smooth.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Remove the sauce from heat. Stir in the sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy and well combined.

Step 6: Combine and Bake

In a large bowl, mix together the cooked beef, cabbage, and cheese sauce. Stir well so that everything is evenly coated. Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. If using, sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.

Step 7: Bake and Serve

Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Let the casserole rest for 5–10 minutes before serving to help it set.

Tips for Success

• Chop cabbage evenly so it cooks uniformly.

• Drain everything well – excess water from cabbage or beef can thin your sauce.

• Add a breadcrumb topping if you like extra crunch.

• Try a different cheese like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for variety.

• Use half ground pork or turkey if you want a lighter protein option.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is filling enough to stand alone but pairs beautifully with:

• Crusty bread or garlic toast

• Simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette

• Roasted carrots or beets for extra veggie goodness

• Pickles or sauerkraut for a tangy contrast

How to Store and Reheat

Storing:

• Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer – Freeze tightly wrapped portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15–20 minutes or until heated through.

• Microwave individual portions in 60–90 second bursts, stirring halfway through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the entire casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5–10 minutes to the bake time if cooking from cold.

Can I make it low-carb or keto?

Absolutely. Omit the flour and use a low-carb thickener like xanthan gum. Replace milk with heavy cream and use full-fat sour cream.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

Greek yogurt or crème fraîche both work well and offer similar tang and creaminess.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend for the roux or thickening with cornstarch.

Let’s Get Cooking!

This Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is the epitome of easy, affordable comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with savory goodness, it’s the kind of dish that brings people back for seconds—and thirds. Whether you’re serving it fresh from the oven or reheating it for a weeknight dinner, it’s bound to become a family favorite.

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