Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

Hey there, my comfort-food-loving friend! Get ready to cozy up with a dish that’s going to wrap you in a big, warm hug—Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole! Imagine layers of tender cabbage swimming in a creamy, dreamy sauce, mixed with savory ground beef that’s got just the right kick. It’s hearty, it’s soul-soothing, and it smells like home the second it hits the oven. Trust me, you’re going to love this one—it’s a game-changer for those nights when you need something easy and oh-so-satisfying!

Why You’ll Love Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:

Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time. Or envision serving this at a party, where guests ask for the recipe before the night ends.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items; this dish proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors. It’s perfect for when you’re trying to stick to a budget but still want something hearty and satisfying.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. If you’re someone who usually avoids complex recipes, this one is for you. It’s designed to be foolproof, so you can enjoy cooking without stress.
Customizable: Easy to tweak with different flavors to suit your preferences. For example, if you love bold flavors, add a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika. Prefer something milder? You can adjust the seasoning to make it kid-friendly.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.

Ingredients in Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Here’s the magic of this casserole—it’s made with just a few pantry staples, but the result is so much more than the sum of its parts. Let’s break it down:

Ground Beef

The hearty, savory star that brings the flavor and fills you up—browns up nice and juicy!

Cabbage

Tender and sweet, it soaks up that creamy sauce like a dream—your veggie comfort fix.

Onion

A little sharpness and sweetness to round out the dish—caramelized goodness incoming!

Butter

Rich and golden, it’s the base of that luscious cream sauce—pure cozy vibes.

Flour

The thickener that turns butter and milk into a velvety blanket for your casserole.

Milk

Creamy and smooth, it ties everything together into a saucy masterpiece.

Cheddar Cheese

Melty, tangy, and oh-so-good—it’s the cheesy crown that makes this irresistible.

Salt and Pepper

The simple duo that wakes up all the flavors—season to your heart’s content!

Instructions

Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:

Preheat Your Equipment

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking and gives your dish that golden, bubbly finish—sets the stage for success!

Cook the Beef and Onions

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onions until the beef’s cooked through and the onions are soft—about 8 minutes. Drain any excess fat, but keep that flavor in there!

Wilt the Cabbage

Add chopped cabbage to the skillet with a pat of butter. Cook for 5-7 minutes until it’s tender and starting to soak up those savory juices—smells amazing already, right?

Make the Cream Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to make a smooth paste—cook for a minute. Slowly pour in milk, whisking until it thickens into a creamy sauce, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper—velvety perfection!

Combine Ingredients

Stir the cream sauce into the beef and cabbage mixture. Mix until everything’s coated in that luscious goodness—don’t overmix, just let it hug every bite.

Prepare Your Cooking Vessel

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or a quick spray. This keeps everything sliding out easy and cleanup a breeze!

Assemble the Dish

Pour the beef-cabbage mixture into the prepared dish and spread it evenly. Sprinkle a generous layer of cheddar cheese on top—because cheese makes everything better, right?

Cook to Perfection

Bake for 25-30 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden. Keep an eye on it—no overcooking, just creamy, dreamy bliss!

Finishing Touches

Let it cool for 5-10 minutes out of the oven. This settles the flavors and makes it easier to scoop—patience pays off here!

Serve and Enjoy

Scoop it out warm and dig in! Whether it’s with a side or solo, this casserole’s ready to steal the show.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 6
Calories per serving: 380

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Serve Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:

Fresh Salads: Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the dish’s rich flavors.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up that creamy sauce—garlic bread or a simple baguette works wonderfully.
Creamy Accompaniments: Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to complement the dish’s cozy vibe—extra creamy goodness!
Vegetable Sides: Roasted carrots, zucchini, or asparagus add color and a little crunch to balance the richness.
As a Standalone: This casserole’s hearty enough to enjoy on its own—just garnish with a sprinkle of parsley for that fresh pop!
Presentation matters too! Scoop it onto a warm plate with a little extra cheese or herbs on top—it’s comfort food with style.

Additional Tips

Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:

Prep Ahead: Chop the cabbage and onions the night before—store ‘em in the fridge to save time when you’re ready to cook.
Spice It Up: Toss in some cayenne, smoked paprika, or even a dash of hot sauce for a bold twist—make it your own!
Dietary Adjustments: Swap flour for a gluten-free blend or use plant-based milk and cheese—still creamy and delicious!
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days—reheat gently to keep that texture perfect.
Double the Batch: This freezes like a champ—double it and stash half in the freezer for a cozy meal later!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I substitute ground beef with another meat?
A1: Absolutely! Ground turkey or pork would be awesome—it might tweak the flavor a bit, but it’ll still be delicious.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: Yes, it’s a great make-ahead! Assemble it fully, cover, and refrigerate up to a day—bake when you’re ready.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Pop ‘em in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days—reheat in the oven for best texture.

Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: You bet! Freeze in a freezer-safe dish for up to 2 months—thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake or microwave.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: Oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or microwave in 30-second bursts until warm—keeps it creamy!

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Oh yeah! Use a bigger dish or two pans—perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prep.

Q7: Can I use a different cheese?
A7: Totally! Try mozzarella for stretch or a sharp gouda—whatever melts your heart!

Q8: What if I don’t have cabbage?
A8: Swap with kale or even shredded Brussels sprouts—keeps it green and cozy!

Q9: Can I make it spicier?
A9: Yup! Add chili flakes or a chopped jalapeño with the beef—bring that heat!

Q10: How do I keep it from getting watery?
A10: Cook the cabbage until just tender and drain any excess liquid before mixing—keeps it creamy, not soupy!

Conclusion

There you have it, my friend—Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole that’s going to warm your soul and fill your belly with pure comfort! It’s easy, it’s hearty, and it’s got that creamy, cheesy magic that makes you want to scoop up seconds. Whether you’re feeding the fam or just treating yourself to a cozy night in, this dish is your new bestie. So grab that cabbage, brown some beef, and let’s make something amazing—you’ve got this, and it’s going to taste like home!

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