If you’ve ever yearned for a comforting, savory dish that feels like a warm hug from the South, this Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe is going to become your new go-to. It’s an irresistible casserole that combines tender ground beef, hearty cabbage, and a rich blend of classic seasonings, all topped with melty cheddar cheese that adds just the right amount of gooey goodness. The flavors marry beautifully, offering a glimpse into Southern home cooking that’s both simple and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual get-together, this dish promises to impress with its homestyle charm and rich, savory depth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each player here has an essential role, contributing layers of texture, aroma, and flavor that balance each other perfectly. With familiar pantry staples and fresh produce, you’re just a few steps away from a heartwarming meal.
- Ground beef (1 pound): Provides a rich, meaty foundation that’s full of flavor and protein.
- Medium onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and aromatic base to the dish.
- Garlic cloves, minced (2): Infuses a lovely pungency that enhances the overall taste.
- Medium head of cabbage, chopped: Offers a tender crunch and earthy freshness to complement the beef.
- Diced tomatoes, canned (14.5 ounces, undrained): Adds juicy acidity that brightens the bake’s flavor profile.
- Beef broth (1 cup): Introduces savory depth and moistens the filling for perfect texture.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors together.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a subtle heat that wakes up the palate.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Delivers warm, smoky undertones, a hallmark of Southern style cooking.
- Dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon): Brings herbal notes that balance the richness.
- Cheddar cheese, shredded (1 cup): Creates a golden, bubbly topping that adds creamy indulgence.
How to Make Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). It’s important to have the oven ready so that the bake cooks evenly and the cheese topping melts perfectly at the end.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until it’s cooked through and no longer pink. This step builds a rich flavor base. Be sure to drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy while maintaining its hearty essence.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. This layering of aromatics is what makes the dish so inviting and deeply flavorful.
Step 4: Add Cabbage and Seasonings
Stir in the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes with their juices, and beef broth. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme, then mix everything thoroughly. The cabbage will soften in the oven, blending beautifully with the tender beef and aromatic spices.
Step 5: Bake Covered
Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to lock in moisture and bake for 45 minutes. This slow cooking allows flavors to meld and the cabbage to steam tender without drying out.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, then return the dish to the oven. Bake uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese melts and bubbles to a glorious golden brown. This final touch brings creamy richness and a visually appealing finish.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Allow the Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe to cool for a few minutes after baking. This rest time helps the casserole set, making it easier to serve and giving all those delicious juices time to settle in.
How to Serve Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of color and freshness, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or green onions on top just before serving. A dollop of sour cream can also add a cool, creamy contrast that complements the warm flavors wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This bake pairs beautifully with classic Southern sides like cornbread or a crisp green salad. If you want something heartier, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes to create a truly comforting meal that satisfies every craving.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the bake in individual ramekins for personal portions. You could also turn it into a layered casserole by alternating the cabbage beef mixture with slices of cooked potatoes before topping with cheese. These approaches make it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of the Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe are great for next-day meals. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making the leftovers even more delicious.
Freezing
This dish freezes wonderfully. Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes if thawed. To keep the cheese topping nice and melty, you can cover loosely with foil for the first 15 minutes and then uncover for the last few minutes. Microwaving works too for a quicker option but may soften the cheese.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar gives a classic Southern touch, you can experiment with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a spicy pepper jack to add your own twist.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used in this Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef?
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken, but keep in mind the flavor will be lighter. You may want to add extra seasoning or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to maintain richness.
How spicy is this casserole?
This dish has a mild warmth from black pepper and paprika but is not spicy hot. You can easily adjust the seasoning if you prefer more heat by adding cayenne or hot sauce.
Can I prepare this dish without a 9×13 inch baking dish?
If you don’t have a 9×13 inch dish, a similar-sized casserole dish or even two smaller dishes will work just as well. Cooking times might vary slightly so keep an eye on the bake as it cooks.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the cozy, hearty appeal of this Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe, especially when shared with friends and family around the dinner table. It’s a dish that brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite, proving that simple ingredients can create unforgettable meals. Give it a try and enjoy the soulful flavors of Southern comfort cooking at its very best!
Print
Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
This Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake is a hearty and comforting casserole featuring ground beef, sautéed onions and garlic, tender cabbage, and juicy diced tomatoes seasoned with paprika and thyme. Topped with melted cheddar cheese and baked to perfection, this dish is perfect for a satisfying family dinner that combines robust flavors with simple ingredients.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Dairy
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onions are translucent and fragrant, which enhances the flavor.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Stir in the chopped cabbage, undrained diced tomatoes, beef broth, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Mix everything thoroughly to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes to allow the cabbage to soften and flavors to meld.
- Add Cheese and Bake Again: Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and bake uncovered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set and make it easier to dish out.
Notes
- To reduce cooking time, you can use pre-shredded cabbage available in many stores.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce when cooking the beef.
- This casserole can be made ahead of time and refrigerated; bake as directed when ready to serve.
- If preferred, substitute cheddar cheese with a milder cheese like mozzarella for a different flavor.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
