Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake

Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake – Hearty Comfort Food Recipe

Introduction:
If you’re craving a warm, comforting, and easy-to-make dish, this Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake is the perfect choice. This budget-friendly casserole brings together seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, and tangy tomatoes, all topped with melty cheddar cheese. It’s a classic Southern-style dish packed with savory flavor and old-fashioned comfort—perfect for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings.

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 55–60 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

• Servings: 6 servings

• Method: Skillet + Oven Bake

• Cuisine: Southern Comfort Food

• Course: Main Dish

• • Difficulty: Easy

    Table of Contents

    Toggle

    Ingredients:

    • 1 pound ground beef

    • 1 medium onion, chopped

    • 2 cloves garlic, minced

    • 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped

    • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained

    • 1 cup beef broth

    • 1 teaspoon salt

    • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

    • 1 teaspoon paprika

    • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

    • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

    Step-by-Step Instructions:

    Step 1: Preheat Oven

    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your dish cooks evenly once assembled.

    Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

    • In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked (about 6–8 minutes).

    • Drain excess fat to avoid a greasy bake.

    Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

    • Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet.

    • Sauté for 3–4 minutes, or until the onions become soft and translucent.

    Step 4: Add Cabbage and Seasonings

    • Stir in the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme.

    • Mix well and allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes, just enough to soften the cabbage slightly.

    Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

    • Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.

    Step 6: Bake Covered

    • Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.

    Step 7: Add Cheese and Finish Baking

    • Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.

    • Return to the oven and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.

    Step 8: Let It Rest

    • Allow the dish to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve.

    Serving Suggestions

    Serve this comforting bake with:

    • Cornbread

    • Mashed potatoes

    • Pickles or coleslaw for a tangy side

    • Hot sauce for those who like a kick

    ---

    Variations & Tips:

    • Spicy Twist: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for some heat.

    • Vegetarian Version: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles, tofu, or cooked lentils.

    • Cheese Options: Swap cheddar with Monterey Jack or mozzarella for different flavors.

    • Shepherd’s Pie Style: Top the beef and cabbage mixture with a layer of mashed potatoes before baking.

    • Extra Veggies: Add diced bell peppers or carrots for more texture and nutrition.

  Conclusion:
  This Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake is a one-pan wonder that combines rich flavor, simple ingredients, and hearty comfort. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or prepping leftovers for the week, this satisfying dish is a Southern classic you’ll come back to time and again.

enjoy!