Wholesome Cabbage Beef Bake — hearty, savory, and comforting with tender beef, baked cabbage, and rich tomato flavor in every satisfying bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-pan convenience: Everything bakes together in one dish for easy prep and cleanup.
- Hearty and filling: With meat, vegetables, and rice, it’s a complete meal in every bite.
- Family-approved: Classic flavors that both kids and adults enjoy.
- Budget-friendly: Uses affordable ingredients that stretch to feed a crowd.
- Great for leftovers: Reheats beautifully and even tastes better the next day.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until beef is browned and onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat. Stir in garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Layer half of the shredded cabbage in the prepared baking dish. Spread the beef mixture evenly over the cabbage.
- Sprinkle cooked rice over the beef layer. Pour the undrained diced tomatoes over the rice.
- Top with the remaining cabbage and pour beef broth evenly over the entire dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese on top, and bake uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Servings And Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving
Variations
- Low-carb version: Skip the rice and add extra cabbage or chopped cauliflower.
- Spicy twist: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the beef.
- Different cheese: Use mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Tomato-rich: Stir in a few tablespoons of tomato paste for extra depth.
- Add beans: Mix in a can of black beans or kidney beans for added protein and texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Microwave individual servings or reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it’s too dry.
FAQs
Can I Make This Ahead Of Time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready.
Is It Necessary To Cook The Rice First?
Yes, the rice should be fully cooked before adding to ensure proper texture in the casserole.
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead Of White?
Absolutely—just make sure it’s pre-cooked before layering into the dish.
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative to beef.
Does The Cabbage Need To Be Cooked First?
No, it will soften perfectly during baking, so no pre-cooking is needed.
Can I Make This Dairy-Free?
Yes, simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
What Size Dish Should I Use?
A standard 9×13-inch baking dish is perfect for this recipe.
Can I Use Pre-Shredded Cabbage?
Yes, bagged coleslaw mix can save time and works just as well.
How Do I Know When It’s Done Baking?
The casserole is done when the cheese is bubbly and the cabbage is tender—about 60 minutes total.
What Should I Serve With It?
It’s great on its own or paired with a green salad or crusty bread.
Conclusion
Wholesome Cabbage Beef Bake is a true comfort food classic—easy to prepare, nourishing, and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a hearty weeknight dinner or a meal-prep friendly dish, this cheesy, tomato-laced casserole delivers warmth and flavor in every forkful.
Discover More Comfort-Food Favorites
- Try our One-Pan Creamy Cheesy Meat Potato Skillet for another hearty, family-friendly dinner with minimal cleanup.
- Craving something bolder? This Cheesy Sloppy Joe Cornbread Casserole packs punchy flavors in a satisfying bake.
- For beef-lovers looking to elevate their next roast, check out the Ultimate Gordon Ramsay Steak Marinade Recipe.
- Need a reliable side? The buttery richness of Savory Stick of Butter Rice pairs beautifully with cabbage and beef.
- Cozy up with a bowl of Creamy Cheddar Baked Potato Soup on your next chilly evening.
Wholesome Cabbage Beef Bake
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A hearty and comforting baked casserole featuring layers of cabbage, ground beef, rice, and tomatoes, topped with melted cheddar cheese — ideal for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onion until beef is browned and onion is translucent. Drain fat. Stir in garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Layer half the shredded cabbage in the baking dish. Spread beef mixture over cabbage. Sprinkle rice over beef layer. Pour diced tomatoes (with juice) over the rice.
- Top with remaining cabbage and pour beef broth evenly over the entire dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil, sprinkle cheddar cheese over top, and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let rest a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for added fiber or lower carbs.
- Top with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh touch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 65mg