Name: Cabbage Beef Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Ground beef, raw; 1 head Cabbage, chopped ((about 6 cups chopped)); 1 medium Onion, diced; 2 cloves Garlic, minced; 1 can Diced tomatoes ((14.5 oz), undrained); 1 cup Shredded cheese ((cheddar or your choice)); Salt (to taste); Pepper (to taste); 1 tablespoon Olive oil

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Creamy, juicy, and cozy — this Cabbage Beef Bake is comfort food that comes together without fuss. In about an hour you can put a bubbling, cheesy casserole on the table that smells like home and tastes like it took all day to make. Fun fact: cabbage was once prized for its ability to keep well through winter, which is why many classic casseroles pair it with hearty proteins.

This recipe is special because it balances simplicity with bold flavor, making it perfect for weeknights or a low-effort Sunday supper. It’s quicker than many slow-cooked roasts and more economical than takeout, and it’s a hit with kids and adults alike. If you like one-pan, family-friendly meals such as my savory cabbage and beef casseroles, you’ll want to try this version too — it’s a different take from the savory cabbage beef bake on the blog but just as satisfying. Ready to get cooking? Let’s go!

What is Cabbage Beef Bake?

What’s in a name? Cabbage Beef Bake sounds like the kind of dish your grandma would call out of the oven with a wink, and for good reason. Is it a bake, a casserole, or just a very comforting jumble of veggies and beef? All of the above. Why might it be called this way — did someone once bake cabbage and beef because they were too hungry to fuss? Quite likely. After all, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach.” If that isn’t reason enough to try it, imagine a bubbling pan of browned beef, tender cabbage, and melted cheese — irresistible. Give it a try and see why this humble name sticks.

Why You’ll Love This

First, the main highlight: a simple but deeply satisfying mix of browned ground beef, softened cabbage, and a savory tomato base topped with golden melted cheese. The textures — slightly tender cabbage, juicy beef, and gooey cheese — work together like a warm hug on a plate.

Second, cost saving: this recipe uses inexpensive pantry staples and one pound of ground beef, so it’s wallet-friendly and feeds a family without stress. Compared to restaurant meals or pricier cuts of meat, you’re getting big flavor for less.

Third, flavor boosters and toppings: canned diced tomatoes add acidity and body, while shredded cheese gives a rich, melty finish. If you like, add a sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs at the end. If you enjoyed the cheesy twist in my cheesy cabbage beef casserole, this recipe delivers similar comfort with a slightly lighter tomato note. Try it tonight — you won’t regret it.

How to Make:

Quick Overview

This Cabbage Beef Bake is easy to prep, satisfying in flavor, and pleasing in texture. The method is straightforward: brown beef and aromatics, soften cabbage, mix in tomatoes, and bake under a blanket of cheese until bubbly and golden. Prep takes about 15 minutes and baking 25 to 30 minutes, so total time is roughly 45 minutes to 1 hour. The standout elements are the rich, savory base and the crispy-cheesy top.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef, raw
1 head of cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups chopped)
1 onion, diced (medium)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz), undrained
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Make sure the oven rack is centered and your baking dish is ready.
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. Stir frequently so the garlic doesn’t burn.
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks, about 6 to 8 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. When fully cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the bake from being greasy.
Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook until slightly tender for about 5 minutes. Toss often so the cabbage wilts evenly but still keeps some texture.
Mix in the diced tomatoes, including their juices, and season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for a minute to marry the flavors.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly so the top is level for even cheese melting.
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top in an even layer so it melts and browns uniformly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden and the edges are slightly crisp.
Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the casserole to set for cleaner slices. Enjoy!

Cabbage Beef Bake

What to Serve With

Pair this Cabbage Beef Bake with light, crisp sides to balance the richness. Good options include a simple mixed green salad with vinaigrette, buttered egg noodles, roasted potatoes, or crusty bread to mop up juices. Add a tangy pickle or coleslaw if you like contrast, and serve a bright white wine or an iced tea for a refreshing drink.

Top Tips for Perfecting

Ingredient substitutions: Use ground turkey or pork for a different flavor, or swap canned diced tomatoes for a can of Rotel if you like spice.
Cheese choices: Sharp cheddar gives more punch, while mozzarella yields stretch and mildness. Mix both for best of both worlds.
Timing adjustments: If your cabbage is very thick, give it an extra 3–5 minutes in the skillet before baking.
Flavor enhancements: Stir in a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of smoked paprika with the tomatoes for depth. Fresh parsley or chives sprinkled on the finished dish brightens the flavor.
Common mistakes to avoid: Don’t skip draining the cooked beef if it’s greasy, and don’t overload the baking dish or the center may stay too moist.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. Cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat portions in a microwave for 1-2 minutes until hot, or cover and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes to restore crispness on top. If reheating from frozen, bake covered at 350°F for 30–40 minutes, then uncover to brown.

FAQs

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. This recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use a gluten-free canned tomato product and ensure your cheese has no additives containing gluten.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Absolutely. Pre-shredded cheese works fine, though freshly shredded often melts a bit smoother.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes. Freeze cooled leftovers in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

How can I add more vegetables?
Stir in sliced bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms when sautéing the onion for extra nutrition and flavor.

Can I make this in advance for a potluck?
Yes. You can assemble the dish and refrigerate it overnight, then bake it before serving. Add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.

Conclusion

This Cabbage Beef Bake is a simple, budget-friendly comfort meal that delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or anytime you want a warm, satisfying dish that everyone will love. For another version of ground beef and cabbage that inspired this approach, check out the helpful community-tested Allrecipes ground beef and cabbage recipe. If you’re curious how others reacted when they tried a similar dish recently, read a first-person take at I am 60 years old and only tried this recently. Great flavors! Give this casserole a try, share it with loved ones, and enjoy the cozy, cheesy goodness.