If you are looking for a hearty, comforting meal that brings together the best of Southern flavors, then this Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe is your new go-to dish. It combines tender green cabbage with savory ground beef, a tangy tomato base, and melty cheddar cheese all baked to perfection. This casserole screams home-cooked goodness, filling your kitchen with amazing aromas and your plate with satisfying textures. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend, this recipe promises to be a winner that feels like a warm hug from the South.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every favorite recipe starts with simple ingredients, and this Southern classic is no exception. Each element plays a unique role—from the rich, juicy beef adding depth, to the fresh cabbage providing a slight crunch and vibrant color, to the cheddar cheese topping offering creamy, golden perfection.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: The protein base that adds heartiness and flavor without being too greasy.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Gives a natural sweetness and aroma that enhances the beef.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a punch of savory depth that wakes up the whole dish.
- 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups): Brings a tender crunch and earthiness, making the bake wholesome and colorful.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained: Introduces juicy bursts and balancing acidity.
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce: Creates a rich, saucy base that ties all ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Perfectly seasons the dish to highlight every flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Offers a warm, smoky twist that makes this recipe unmistakably Southern.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Delivers a gentle herbal note that rounds out the spices.
- 1 cup cooked white rice: Gives the bake a filling structure and soft texture to complement the cabbage.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a golden, gooey topping that makes every bite irresistible.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sauté the onions and garlic, infusing flavor from the very first step.
How to Make Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit—this is the perfect temperature to bake the flavors together without drying anything out. Getting this ready early means everything moves smoothly once your stovetop work is done.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes, just until it softens and begins to turn translucent. Then toss in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This step forms the aromatic base that will infuse the entire dish with warmth and depth.
Step 3: Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Keep stirring until it’s fully browned with no pink left, then drain off any excess grease to keep the bake from getting greasy. The rich beef flavor is key to this Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe’s mouthwatering appeal.
Step 4: Add Cabbage and Simmer
Stir in the chopped cabbage and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes until it starts to soften but still holds a bit of texture. Next, add the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and thyme. Mix everything well and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer for 5 minutes. This melding of ingredients develops the signature taste profile we love in this recipe.
Step 5: Combine with Rice and Assemble
Remove the skillet from heat and fold the cooked white rice into the beef and cabbage mixture. Transfer everything to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly for consistent cooking and a beautiful presentation.
Step 6: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes, just until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. This finishing touch is what takes the Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe from great to absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or green onions add a lovely pop of color and mild freshness that contrasts nicely with the rich, cheesy casserole. A light drizzle of hot sauce can also wake up the flavors with some gentle heat if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with classic Southern sides like cornbread or buttery mashed potatoes to soak up any extra sauce. For some contrast, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette helps balance the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
You can serve this casserole straight from the baking dish for a cozy family dinner or portion it into individual ramekins for an elegant twist. Adding a sprinkle of extra cheddar or a dash of smoked paprika on top before serving enhances the visual appeal and flavor punch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftovers into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. This Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe actually tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish either fully assembled before baking or after it’s baked and cooled. Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly with foil and plastic wrap. Frozen leftovers keep well for up to 3 months, making it a convenient meal prep option.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warm and bubbly again, about 15 to 20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2 to 3 minutes. Be sure to cover the dish to prevent it from drying out during reheating.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works beautifully as a lighter alternative in this Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe. Just be mindful that turkey is leaner, so you may want to add a little extra olive oil during cooking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients used here are naturally gluten-free, making this a safe and tasty option for anyone avoiding gluten.
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
To keep things vegetarian, you can substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a plant-based meat alternative. Just remember to adjust seasonings as needed to maintain that Southern flavor profile.
What type of cheese is best for topping?
Sharp cheddar cheese works best, providing a rich, melty crust that complements the savory filling. Feel free to experiment with smoked gouda or a blend for a unique twist.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble everything and refrigerate the unbaked dish for up to 24 hours. When ready, simply pop it in the oven and bake as directed.
Final Thoughts
This Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe is a true treasure from the kitchen that will quickly become a beloved classic. It’s simple to prepare yet packed with layers of flavor and texture that make every bite feel special. Give it a try—you’re going to love how it fills your home with warmth and your table with smiles.
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Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake is a hearty and flavorful casserole that combines tender green cabbage, seasoned ground beef, and a cheesy topping. Perfectly baked with a rich tomato base and aromatic spices, it’s a comforting dish that suits family dinners and meal prepping alike.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
Tomato Sauce Mix
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit to prepare for baking the casserole later.
- Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to release its fragrance.
- Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Continue until the beef is fully browned. Drain any excess grease from the pan if necessary.
- Cook the cabbage: Stir the chopped cabbage into the skillet with the beef and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the cabbage starts to soften.
- Add tomato and seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the tomato sauce. Then, season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Stir everything well and allow the mixture to simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Combine with rice: Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the cooked white rice evenly into the beef and cabbage mixture.
- Prepare for baking: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and transfer the mixture into it, spreading it out evenly for uniform baking.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
- Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
- Rest and serve: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes after baking to set, then serve warm.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter version of this dish.
- For a spicy kick, add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes when simmering the tomato mixture.
- Brown rice can be used instead of white rice for added fiber and nutrients.
- This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
