Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole

Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole is that comforting meal you turn to when you need something craveable that will feed a hungry crowd and still taste just as good reheated tomorrow. It is warm and hearty, full of classic flavors, and designed to make dinner as relaxed as possible.

I made this on a rainy night when the fridge was almost bare and everyone went back for seconds. Since then, we have made it countless times and it always gets rave reviews.

Ingredients

• Medium head of cabbage chopped: Cabbage adds bulk and a fresh bite Try to pick one that feels heavy and crisp
• Ground beef: About a pound for savory depth Look for beef with a bit of fat for flavor
• Chopped onion: A classic foundation Choose one that feels firm and has no sprouting
• Minced garlic: Two cloves for aroma and zing Fresh is best but jarred garlic also works
• Diced tomatoes undrained: For moisture and tang Use ones with no added herbs for a cleaner taste
• Cooked rice: White or brown both work Use day-old rice for best texture
• Italian seasoning: One teaspoon gives fragrant herbal notes Use a blend you love
• Salt and black pepper: Season to taste A sprinkle at each step helps the flavors build
• Shredded cheddar cheese: About two cups for gooey goodness Sharp cheddar is my favorite for richness
• Beef broth: Adds moisture and deepens flavor Low-sodium is a safe bet if you want to control the salt

If you prefer different meat or have some leftover chicken or turkey, swap it in easily. Cheese blends melt well too—try Monterey Jack or mozzarella for variety.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Turn your oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit or one hundred seventy five degrees Celsius Give a nine by thirteen inch baking dish a light coat of butter or spray This prevents sticking and makes serving easier

Cook the Beef and Aromatics:

Place a large skillet on medium heat Add the ground beef Onion and garlic Stir and break up the meat as it cooks Wait until the beef is thoroughly browned and the onions soften which takes around eight minutes Drain off any extra fat so your casserole is not oily

Add the Cabbage:

Toss the chopped cabbage into the skillet with the beef mixture Stir every couple of minutes Cook for about five minutes The cabbage will shrink dramatically as it wilts and releases water

Mix in Tomatoes Rice and Seasoning:

Add the undrained diced tomatoes Cooked rice Italian seasoning Salt and pepper Stir everything together and let simmer for five minutes The mixture will be fragrant and the cabbage softer

Assemble the Casserole:

Pour the skillet contents into your prepared baking dish Spread it out evenly Then pour the beef broth over the top of the mixture This adds the right amount of moisture

Top with Cheese:

Scatter the shredded cheddar on top of the casserole in an even layer This will melt into a golden topping after baking

Bake:

Cover the dish with foil Bake for thirty minutes Take off the foil and bake ten to fifteen minutes longer until the cheese is golden and bubbly Let the casserole rest for five minutes out of the oven before serving This makes it easier to serve neat portions

Save

The sharp cheddar in this casserole has always been my favorite part I remember my grandmother grating extra cheese for the topping because she knew I would sneak bites before the dish went into the oven. It smells like my childhood kitchen.

Storage Tips

This casserole keeps in the fridge for up to four days and tastes even better after the flavors meld overnight To reheat cover the dish and warm in a moderate oven or microwave individual portions Leftovers can also be frozen for up to two months though the cabbage will become softer after thawing

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or chicken both make delicious swaps for the beef If you are vegetarian crumbled tofu or lentils work as a hearty base You can use a blend of cheeses like mozzarella for a milder flavor or pepper jack for a gentle kick

Save

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a side of crusty bread or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal This casserole is also great topped with a little sour cream or fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and freshness

Cultural and Historical Context

Cabbage and beef casseroles are a humble comfort food with roots in Central and Eastern Europe Many families have their own twist—some add sauerkraut or swap in barley—but the spirit of the dish is always the same simple ingredients coming together for a satisfying homey meal