Easy Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole Recipe

If you are searching for a hearty, comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients in a deliciously creamy and savory way, this Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole will quickly become a family favorite. Combining tender cabbage, perfectly browned ground beef, and a smooth, luscious cream sauce baked to bubbly perfection, this casserole is both satisfying and incredibly easy to make. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe delivers layers of flavor and texture that everyone will love while being budget-friendly and straightforward to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses easy-to-find pantry staples that come together quickly for a hassle-free meal.
• Family Friendly: A comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole perfect for all ages and picky eaters alike.
• Nutritious and Balanced: Combines protein-rich ground beef and fiber-packed cabbage in a creamy, satisfying dish.
• One-Dish Wonder: Minimal cleanup thanks to baking everything together in a single casserole dish.
• Customizable: Easily adapted with different seasonings or additional veggies to suit your tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole recipe centers on a handful of simple but essential ingredients that create a medley of textures and flavors. Each component plays a vital role whether it’s the creaminess from dairy, the savoriness from meat, or the earthy crunch from the cabbage.

• Ground Beef: Choose lean or regular ground beef for rich flavor and protein.
• Cabbage: Fresh green cabbage brings a gentle crunch and subtle sweetness.
• Onion: Provides a pungent, aromatic base that enhances the savory profile.
• Garlic: Adds a mild spiciness that complements the beef and cabbage beautifully.
• Butter: For sautéing vegetables and adding a silky richness.
• All-purpose Flour: Helps create the creamy sauce by thickening the dairy mixture.
• Milk or Cream: Adds luscious moisture and creaminess to bind the casserole.
• Cheese (Optional): Shredded cheddar or mozzarella makes a melty, golden topping.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural tastes.
• Fresh Herbs (Optional): Such as parsley or thyme for a hint of freshness.

Variations for Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

This recipe is incredibly versatile and lends itself to many adaptations, whether you want to boost nutrition, switch up the proteins, or cater to dietary preferences. Feel free to get creative and make it your own!

• Swap Ground Beef for Turkey: For a leaner version, ground turkey adds a lighter but still savory flavor.
• Add Root Vegetables: Include diced carrots or potatoes for extra heartiness and color.
• Use Cauliflower Instead of Cabbage: Offers a low-carb twist with a milder taste and creamy texture.
• Dairy-Free Variation: Substitute with coconut milk and dairy-free cheese for those avoiding lactose.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a touch of heat.

How to Make Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage and Vegetables

Start by chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and finely dicing the onion and garlic. Sauté the onions and garlic in melted butter over medium heat until soft and fragrant. Then add the cabbage and cook until it begins to soften, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a separate skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Drain any excess fat for a lighter casserole or keep it if you want extra richness.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

In the same pan used for the cabbage, melt another tablespoon of butter and whisk in the flour to form a roux. Slowly add milk or cream while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Cook until the mixture thickens into a creamy sauce, then season it with salt, pepper, and any herbs you like.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients in a Casserole Dish

Mix the sautéed cabbage and onions, cooked ground beef, and creamy sauce thoroughly. Transfer everything into a greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly. If using cheese, sprinkle shredded cheese evenly on top for a bubbling golden crust.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the casserole uncovered for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is heated through and bubbling around the edges.

Pro Tips for Making Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

• Use Fresh Cabbage: Fresh, crisp cabbage ensures a better texture and taste than pre-shredded or frozen varieties.
• Don’t Skip the Roux: Cooking the flour with butter before adding milk guarantees a smooth, thickened cream sauce.
• Drain Excess Fat: To reduce greasiness, carefully drain the ground beef after cooking without losing flavor.
• Pre-Cook the Cabbage: Sautéing cabbage first prevents sogginess and helps develop deeper flavors.
• Let It Rest: Allow the casserole to sit for 5-10 minutes after baking so it sets and slices cleanly.

How to Serve Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley, chives, or thyme add a pop of color and fresh aroma to the creamy, savory casserole. A light dusting of paprika or cracked black pepper on top also gives a subtle, elegant touch.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted root vegetables, or even a crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. For a lighter balance, steamed green beans or sautéed mushrooms complement the flavors nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized presentation or sprinkle extra cheese and broil just before serving to create a bubbly, golden-brown crust. Layering with additional vegetables like sliced tomatoes or bell peppers can also brighten the dish visually and offer extra nutrition.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to maintain creaminess without drying out.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers covered in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or until warmed through. For microwave reheating, cover loosely to trap steam and heat in short bursts to prevent curdling of the cream sauce.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cabbage?

Yes, you can substitute green cabbage with savoy or Napa cabbage, although the cooking time might vary slightly due to different textures.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The classic recipe uses all-purpose flour for the sauce, but you can easily substitute with gluten-free flour or cornstarch to make it gluten-free.

Can I prepare this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble everything a day ahead and refrigerate, then bake right before serving to save time on busy days.

What can I use instead of ground beef?

Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well and can be swapped in with little adjustment to cooking times.

How spicy is this dish?

The basic Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is mild and comforting, but you can add spices like cayenne or chili flakes if you prefer some heat.

Final Thoughts

This Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is a celebration of cozy, delicious comfort food that’s surprisingly easy to make yet full of flavor and texture. Whether you’re cooking for your family or craving a simple, satisfying meal, this casserole promises warm, creamy goodness in every bite. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe today and watch it become a staple on your dinner table!

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