If you love comfort food that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then the Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe is about to become your new go-to. This dish marries rich, savory ground beef with creamy cheese soups and a luscious cheddar biscuit topping, creating layers of flavor and texture that everyone will rave about. Whether it’s a family dinner or a weekend treat, this cobbler is straightforward to make and utterly satisfying. Plus, it’s packed with cheesy goodness that you simply can’t resist!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on simple, everyday ingredients that come together to build a dish full of flavor and comfort. Each one plays a key role, from the savory ground beef base to the cheesy biscuit topping, ensuring the perfect balance of taste and texture.
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef: The hearty protein base that delivers savory richness and satisfying texture.
- 1 yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the beef filling.
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic: Elevates the dish with aromatic warmth and flavor punch.
- 10.5 oz can condensed cheddar cheese soup: Creates creamy, cheesy richness in the filling.
- 10.5 oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup: Adds earthiness and silkiness to the mix.
- ½ cup milk: Helps achieve a smooth, cohesive casserole filling.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides a mild kick and balances the richness.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: One cup stirs into the filling, one cup tops it for gooey, melty effect.
- 1 box Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix: The secret to that iconic, flavorful biscuit crust without fuss.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Folded into the biscuit batter for an extra cheesy punch in every bite.
- 2 cups milk: Moistens the biscuit batter perfectly for a tender crumb.
- ¼ cup butter, melted: Combined with biscuit seasoning for a decadent topping finish.
- Fresh chopped parsley: A bright, fresh garnish that complements the rich cobbler beautifully.
How to Make Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Brown Beef
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the lean ground beef along with the diced yellow onion. Cook, stirring and breaking the meat apart, until it is completely browned and the onions are softened. Be sure to drain any excess grease to keep the filling from becoming too oily.
Step 2: Make the Filling
Once your beef and onions are browned, reduce the heat to medium and stir in the chopped garlic, condensed cheddar cheese soup, condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and black pepper. Keep stirring until everything is combined and warmed through, creating a rich and creamy base. Remove from heat, then gently fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, letting it melt into the luscious mixture.
Step 3: Assemble in Baking Dish
Grab a 9 by 13-inch baking dish and give it a quick spray with cooking spray to keep things from sticking. Pour your cheesy ground beef filling into the dish and spread it out evenly. Then sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese all over the top for a melty, delicious layer that bakes into gooey perfection.
Step 4: Make Biscuit Topping
In a mixing bowl, combine the Cheddar Bay biscuit mix (be sure to leave out the seasoning packet for now), 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and 2 cups of milk. Stir everything together until you have a smooth batter that will bake into a fluffy, cheesy crust.
Step 5: Top and Bake
Carefully pour the biscuit batter over the prepared beef mixture, spreading it gently so it covers the filling evenly. Slide your dish into the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the biscuit topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling happily underneath.
Step 6: Make Butter Topping and Finish
While the cobbler bakes, melt ¼ cup of butter and stir in the seasoning packet from the Cheddar Bay biscuit mix. Once your cobbler is out of the oven, brush this buttery mixture generously over the biscuit topping to add that signature flavor and shine. Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving, and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a lovely color contrast and fresh note.
How to Serve Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds visual appeal but also cuts through the richness with a hint of herbaceous brightness. If you love heat, a few red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce on the side can add an exciting kick to each bite.
Side Dishes
This cobbler shines as a one-dish meal, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed seasonal vegetables adds freshness and balance. Roasted carrots or a tangy coleslaw can also complement the hearty, cheesy main beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, prepare individual cobblers in ramekins for personal servings at a dinner party or family gathering. You can also serve it in a cast iron skillet for rustic charm that keeps the cobbler warm and inviting right at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover cobbler to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for quick meals later in the week.
Freezing
This dish freezes exceptionally well. Wrap the baked cobbler tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, or store in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen cobbler overnight in the fridge. Warm in a 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes until heated through and the biscuit topping regains its crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve the texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of ground meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner version, though the flavor will be slightly different. You might want to add some extra seasoning to boost the flavor.
Can I make the biscuit topping from scratch?
You can, but the Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix adds a uniquely delicious flavor and texture that’s hard to replicate. If you prefer homemade, just be sure to add plenty of cheddar cheese and garlic for that signature taste.
Is this dish gluten-free?
The recipe as written uses biscuit mix, which typically contains gluten. To make it gluten-free, look for a gluten-free biscuit mix variant or make a gluten-free biscuit topping from scratch.
How do I know when the cobbler is done?
The topping should be golden brown and firm to the touch, and the filling should be bubbly around the edges. If it looks undercooked, give it a few extra minutes but keep an eye to avoid burning the crust.
Can I add vegetables to the filling?
Yes! Diced bell peppers, peas, or corn can be stirred into the beef mixture for extra color and nutrition without overpowering the flavors.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe that makes it feel like a celebration of all things cozy and delicious. Whether you’re cooking for your family, friends, or just yourself, this dish offers layers of comforting flavors and textures that will leave you smiling with every forkful. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
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Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler is a comforting and hearty casserole that combines savory ground beef with a creamy cheese filling and a cheesy biscuit topping inspired by the famous Cheddar Bay Biscuits. Baked to golden perfection and finished with a buttery seasoned topping, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or gathering, delivering rich flavors and satisfying textures in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Beef Filling
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
- 10.5 oz can condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 10.5 oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
For Assembly
- 9×13 inch baking dish, sprayed with cooking spray
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for sprinkling)
For the Biscuit Topping
- 1 box Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix (seasoning packet reserved)
- 2 cups milk
- ¼ cup butter, melted
- Seasoning packet from biscuit mix
Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat and Brown Beef: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the lean ground beef and diced yellow onion. Cook until the beef is thoroughly browned and the onion is softened. Drain excess grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
- Make Filling: To the skillet with browned beef and onions, stir in the chopped garlic, condensed cheddar cheese soup, condensed cream of mushroom soup, ½ cup milk, salt, and black pepper. Cook the mixture while stirring until everything is well combined and heated through. Remove from heat and fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and evenly distributed.
- Assemble in Baking Dish: Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the prepared ground beef mixture into the dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef layer.
- Make Biscuit Topping: In a separate bowl, combine the Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix (without the seasoning packet), 2 cups of milk, and stir until just combined to form the biscuit batter. The batter will be moist but thick enough to pour over the beef layer.
- Top and Bake: Pour the biscuit batter evenly over the ground beef and cheese layers in the baking dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the biscuit topping is golden brown and cooked through.
- Make Butter Topping: While the cobbler bakes, melt ¼ cup of butter in a small bowl. Add in the seasoning packet from the biscuit mix and stir until combined to create the flavorful butter topping.
- Finish and Serve: When the cobbler is done baking, remove it from the oven and immediately brush the biscuit topping generously with the melted butter and seasoning mixture. Let the cobbler rest for 5 minutes to set. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.
Notes
- You can substitute the condensed soups with homemade versions for a fresher taste, but adjust seasoning accordingly.
- For a lower-fat version, use reduced-fat cheddar cheese and milk.
- If you want a crispier topping, broil the cobbler for 1-2 minutes after applying the butter topping—watch closely to avoid burning.
- Make sure to drain the beef very well to prevent the filling from becoming too greasy.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated; this dish tastes great warmed up the next day.
