Description

This Cabbage Beef Bake is a comforting layered casserole made with seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, tomato sauce, and melty cheese. It’s like a lazy cabbage roll — all the flavor, none of the fuss. A simple, satisfying dish the whole family will love!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 head green cabbage (chopped, about 4-5 cups)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup cooked white or brown rice (optional for extra heartiness)
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese

1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)

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Instructions

Preheat oven: to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Cook the beef mixture: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and onion. Cook until beef is browned and onion is soft. Drain excess grease. Add garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes.

Prep the cabbage: While the beef simmers, chop the cabbage and steam or sauté it lightly just until tender (5–7 minutes). You can also microwave it in a covered bowl for ease.

Assemble the casserole: In the prepared dish, layer half of the cabbage, then spoon half of the beef mixture on top. Sprinkle with half the cheese. Repeat layers with remaining cabbage, beef, and cheese.

Bake: Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Uncover and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

Add cooked rice to the beef mixture for a heartier casserole.
For a low-carb version, skip the rice altogether.
Ground turkey or sausage can be used instead of beef.

Tastes even better the next day!