The Best Bake Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole
Get ready to elevate your dinner game with our mouthwatering Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole. This hearty and flavorful dish is a perfect blend of ground beef, vibrant cabbage, and a medley of savory spices, all baked to perfection. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a cooking enthusiast, this recipe strikes the ideal balance between comfort and sophistication. Get ready to indulge in layers of deliciousness that will have your taste buds dancing!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small cabbage A mix of chopped and shredded
- 1 can 14 ounces diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can 8 ounces tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon Oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup cooked rice Long grain white or basmati works well
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare your ingredients.
- Lightly grease a 9” x 13” casserole pan
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add chopped onions to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the onions are softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute or until the garlic is aromatic.
- Stir in the chopped cabbage.
- Continue cooking until the cabbage wilts.
- Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Stir in the cooked rice, ensuring it's well combined with the meat and cabbage mixture.
- Transfer the entire mixture to a greased casserole dish.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Now, your Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole with rice is ready to delight your taste buds and make a perfect addition to your food blog! Enjoy the deliciousness! 🍚🌶️✨
Notes
Tips and Tricks
1. Prep Ahead: Save time on busy days by prepping some ingredients in advance. Chop onions, mince garlic, and even shred cabbage ahead of time to streamline the cooking process. 2. Mix Cabbage Varieties: For a dynamic texture, consider using a mix of chopped and shredded cabbage. This combination adds both crunch and tenderness to your casserole. 3. Seasoning Savvy: Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly. Don't hesitate to add a pinch more of oregano, basil, salt, or pepper to suit your palate. 4. Rice Perfection: If using cooked rice, ensure it's not overcooked. Slightly al dente rice will hold up better in the casserole and prevent it from becoming mushy during baking. 5. Cheese Choice: Experiment with different cheese varieties for the topping. While cheddar is a classic choice, you can also try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for added depth of flavor. 6. Layering Magic: Create distinct layers by spreading the cabbage and beef mixture evenly in the casserole dish. This ensures each serving has a perfect balance of flavors. 7. Cover While Baking: If you notice the cheese browning too quickly, cover the casserole with foil during the last part of baking to prevent it from burning. 8. Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes after taking it out of the oven. This helps the flavors meld together, making it easier to cut and serve. 9. Customize to Taste: Feel free to add your personal touch! Whether it's a dash of hot sauce, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a squeeze of lemon, make this recipe your own. 10. Double Up for Later: This casserole freezes well. Consider making a double batch and freezing individual portions for quick and delicious meals on busy days. With these tips and tricks, you're well on your way to creating a show-stopping Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole. Enjoy the cooking process and the delightful outcome! 🍽️✨Storing Recommendations
Storing leftovers properly is key to maintaining their freshness. Here's how to store your Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole with rice: 1. Refrigeration:- Allow the casserole to cool to room temperature before storing.
- Divide the leftovers into airtight containers or cover the casserole dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil.
- Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. 2. Freezing:
- If you have a larger batch or want to store leftovers for an extended period, freezing is a great option.
- Portion the casserole into individual servings or as desired.
- Wrap each portion tightly with plastic wrap and then with aluminum foil.
- Label with the date and store in the freezer.
- It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. 3. Reheating: To reheat in the microwave, place a portion in a microwave-safe container, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between. To reheat in the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C), place the casserole in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through. 4. Thawing Frozen Casserole: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Reheat as mentioned above. 5. Quality Check: Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming leftovers. If the casserole looks or smells off, it's best to discard it. By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole with rice for several days, ensuring both convenience and flavor. Happy cooking! 🍲❄️
Creation Time
The total time to make the Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole with rice will depend on various factors, including your cooking skills, preparation efficiency, and the specific appliances you use. However, here's a general breakdown of the time required: Approximate Time: 60-75 minutes 1. Preparation (Chopping, Browning, etc.): 20-25 minutes- This includes chopping onions, garlic, cabbage, browning ground beef, and preparing other ingredients. 2. Cooking on the Stovetop: 15-20 minutes
- Cooking the beef, onions, garlic, and cabbage mixture on the stovetop. 3. Baking in the Oven: 25-30 minutes
- Baking the assembled casserole in the oven until