If you’re searching for that perfect comfort meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, look no further than this Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe. It’s a delightful combination of seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, and rich, melted cheddar cheese baked to bubbly perfection. This dish blends savory flavors and hearty textures in a way that’s both satisfying and soulful, making it a family favorite that you’ll want to prepare again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Every item plays an essential role, from the savory beef to the fresh cabbage and the creamy cheddar cheese, ensuring a perfect balance of taste, texture, and color.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base that brings rich flavor and protein.
- 1 medium onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
- 1 medium head of cabbage (chopped): Provides wonderful texture and a mild sweetness.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (undrained): Introduces acidity and moisture for a saucy finish.
- 1 cup beef broth: Enhances the beefy richness and keeps the casserole juicy.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances and brightens all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick and warmth.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings subtle smokiness and vibrant color.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a fragrant herbal note that complements beef and cabbage.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded): Melts into a golden, gooey topping that seals in all the yum.
How to Make Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius). This ensures the perfect even heat to bake the casserole just right.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s beautifully browned and no longer pink. Make sure to drain any excess fat so your bake isn’t greasy but still remains flavorful.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onions turn translucent and tender, releasing their sweet aroma, which perfectly complements the meat.
Step 4: Combine Main Ingredients
Next, stir in the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes (with their juices), beef broth, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Mix everything well so the spices coat the ingredients evenly, setting the stage for deep, harmonious flavors.
Step 5: Transfer and Bake
Pour this hearty mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to trap moisture and bake it for 45 minutes. The cabbage will soften perfectly, mingling its flavors with the beef and tomatoes.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously on top. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncover for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. This final touch adds creamy richness and invites everyone to dig in!
Step 7: Let It Rest Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let your Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe cool for a few minutes. This resting time helps the flavors settle and makes it easier to serve warm, comforting portions to your hungry guests.
How to Serve Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or green onions add a bright contrast and pop of color to this hearty dish. A dollop of sour cream can also add a tangy creaminess that pairs beautifully with the rich beef and cabbage.
Side Dishes
This bake stands wonderfully on its own but pairs equally well with classic Southern sides like cornbread, collard greens, or a crisp green salad. These sides balance the rich main dish and bring variety to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe in individual ramekins or muffin tins for charming personal portions. You can also layer it in a bread bowl for a rustic and memorable presentation that is sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, often tasting even better the next day.
Freezing
This casserole freezes wonderfully. Transfer cooled leftovers into a freezer-safe container, and your Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe will keep well for up to 2 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers covered in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, or microwave individual portions. Adding a splash of beef broth before reheating can keep it nice and moist.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and will work perfectly in this Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe. Just be mindful of added seasoning, as turkey can be milder in flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat crumbles or add more hearty vegetables like mushrooms or lentils. Adjust the broth and seasoning accordingly to maintain flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake it later?
You can assemble the entire dish a day in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. When ready, just pop it in the oven and adjust baking time slightly if it’s chilled.
What kind of cheese works best?
Cheddar cheese is fantastic for its sharp flavor and melting quality, but feel free to experiment with mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
How spicy is this bake?
The dish has a gentle warmth from the paprika and black pepper but is generally mild and family-friendly. You can increase the spice level by adding cayenne or hot sauce if you like more heat.
Final Thoughts
There’s something undeniably satisfying about the Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe, from the cozy blend of flavors to the ease of preparation. It’s a dish that feels like home, perfect for any night of the week when you want to nurture yourself and those you love. I hope you enjoy making it as much as you’ll enjoy eating it!
Print
Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
This Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake is a hearty casserole combining seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, and savory spices baked to perfection with melted cheddar cheese on top. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Main 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 cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking the casserole.
- Brown Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is thoroughly browned, then drain any excess fat for a leaner dish.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef and cook until the onion turns translucent, enhancing the flavor.
- Mix Ingredients: Stir in the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme to create a well-seasoned mixture.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the beef and cabbage mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and flavors to meld.
- Add Cheese and Bake Again: Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the casserole. Return it to the oven and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set and make serving easier.
Notes
- This recipe can be customized by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra color and nutrients.
- For a lower-fat version, use lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To make it gluten-free, ensure the beef broth used is certified gluten-free.
- Optional: Sprinkle with fresh parsley or chives before serving for added freshness and color.
