Introduction and Origin

Cabbage and ground beef bake is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a flavorful and filling meal. Rooted in home-style cooking, this dish has been a staple in many households, offering an easy and budget-friendly way to feed a family. It’s reminiscent of traditional Eastern European stuffed cabbage rolls but with a much simpler, layered approach.

Cultural Significance

Cabbage and ground beef are commonly found in various cuisines worldwide, from European cabbage rolls to American casseroles. This dish embodies the essence of wholesome, home-cooked meals—nutritious, satisfying, and made with love. The combination of beef and cabbage provides a balance of protein, fiber, and rich flavor, making it a beloved comfort food.

Ingredients Quantity

• 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• ½ cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 cup cooked rice (optional, for added texture and heartiness)

Optional Additions

• Bell peppers for extra sweetness and color
• Carrots for a touch of natural sweetness
• Ground turkey or chicken as a leaner meat alternative
• A pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat
• Worcestershire sauce for deeper umami flavor

Tips for Success

• Use fresh cabbage for the best texture; avoid overcooking to maintain a slight crunch.
• Brown the beef well to develop rich flavor before combining with other ingredients.
• Layering the casserole ensures even distribution of flavors.
• Cover with foil during baking to prevent the top from drying out.
• Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
3. Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, paprika, salt, pepper, and oregano. Simmer for 5 minutes.

2. Assemble the Casserole

1. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spread half of the chopped cabbage.
2. Layer half of the beef mixture over the cabbage.
3. Repeat layers with remaining cabbage and beef mixture.
4. Pour cooked rice (if using) evenly over the top.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.

3. Add Cheese and Finish Baking

1. Remove foil and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
2. Bake uncovered for 10–15 more minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

4. Serve and Enjoy!

Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad.

Description

This cabbage and ground beef bake is rich, savory, and packed with tender cabbage and perfectly seasoned beef. The tomato-based sauce ties everything together, while the melted cheese on top adds a deliciously gooey finish. The dish is both satisfying and nutritious, making it a great choice for family dinners or meal prep.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: ~320
• Protein: 20g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 22g
• Fiber: 5g

(Nutritional values may vary based on ingredients and portion size.)

Conclusion and Recommendation

This cabbage and ground beef bake is a fantastic alternative to stuffed cabbage rolls, offering the same great flavors with less effort. It’s a perfect dish for meal prepping or feeding a crowd. Serve it with a dollop of sour cream or fresh parsley for extra flavor!

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

For a lighter version, try:

• Using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Swapping white rice for cauliflower rice or quinoa.
• Reducing cheese or using a low-fat cheese alternative.

This dish proves that comfort food can be both delicious and nutritious—enjoy every hearty bite!