This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy topping. With its golden, crispy breadcrumb crust, this casserole is perfect for family dinners or potlucks. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, it’s a satisfying meal that everyone will love!
Prep Time
- 15 minutes
Cook Time
- 40 minutes
Total Time
- 55 minutes
Servings
- 6–8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 small head of cabbage , chopped (about 6–8 cups)
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion , diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes , undrained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 cup panko or regular breadcrumbs (for topping)
- 2 tablespoons butter , melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter for added flavor. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef and Onions
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat .
- Add the ground beef and diced onion to the skillet. Cook for 5–7 minutes , breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon, until the beef is browned and no pink remains. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Soften the Cabbage
- Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet with the beef and onions. Cook for 3–4 minutes , stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to soften and reduce in volume.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Season
- Stir in the undrained diced tomatoes , salt , and black pepper .
- Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes , allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Step 5: Incorporate Sour Cream
- Remove the skillet from heat.
- Fold in the sour cream until the mixture is creamy and well-coated. The result should be rich, cohesive, and ready to layer into the baking dish.
Step 6: Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer the beef-cabbage mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly to form the base.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top to create a gooey, cheesy layer.
- In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with melted butter . Scatter this mixture evenly over the cheese layer for a golden, crispy topping.
Step 7: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes , or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to slice.
- Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!
Pro Tips
- Cabbage Prep: Use a food processor to shred the cabbage quickly and evenly.
- Ground Beef Swap: Substitute ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days . Reheat in the microwave or oven.
- Freezing: Assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover tightly, and freeze unbaked for up to 3 months . Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
- Extra Veggies: Add diced carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for more nutrition and color.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on 8 servings)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fats: 20g
- Protein: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 6g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is a delicious way to enjoy cabbage as the star of the dish. The combination of savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and creamy sour cream creates a hearty and satisfying base, while the melted cheddar and crispy breadcrumb topping add irresistible texture and flavor. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a dish to bring to a gathering, this casserole is sure to impress.
Ready to make a dish that’s cheesy, hearty, and full of flavor? Grab your ingredients and get ready to savor a casserole that’s easy to make and even easier to love—it’s comfort food at its finest!
