Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

What is Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole?

If you’re looking for a dish that’s cozy, satisfying, and downright delicious, look no further than Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole. This meal is everything we love about comfort food: warm, cheesy, creamy, and packed with flavor.

Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re just in need of a filling dinner, this casserole brings together tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a rich cream sauce all baked under a bubbly, cheesy topping. Bonus: it’s super simple to make!

What really sets this dish apart is how it manages to feel both indulgent and nourishing. The cabbage adds a gentle sweetness and slight crunch that perfectly complements the heartiness of the beef. And let’s be honest anything with melted cheese on top just feels like a warm hug in food form. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people together, whether it’s a weeknight meal with family or a potluck with friends.

Even better? You don’t need to be a kitchen pro to pull it off. With just a handful of ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is totally beginner-friendly. It’s a dependable dish that hits all the right notes: savory, creamy, cheesy, and comforting every single time.

The Story Behind Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole might sound like a modern invention, but its roots go deep into classic home cooking. Casseroles have been beloved in kitchens for generations because they’re easy, affordable, and feed a crowd making them a go-to for busy families and potluck dinners alike.

In many cultures, cabbage has long been a staple due to its low cost, versatility, and nutritional value. It stores well, cooks quickly, and can take on the flavor of whatever it’s paired with. Combine that with ground beef one of the most accessible and budget-friendly proteins and it’s no wonder this combo has stood the test of time.

In fact, variations of beef and cabbage casseroles can be found across regions, from Eastern European stuffed cabbage rolls to Southern-style cabbage hash. This dish is simply a creamy, oven-baked twist on those traditions, perfect for today’s kitchen.

What makes this version special? The creamy sauce and cheese topping elevate it to something truly indulgent, while still staying grounded in wholesome ingredients. It’s that perfect intersection of old-fashioned comfort and modern convenience. Every bite delivers the richness of a home-cooked meal with just enough decadence to make it feel like a treat without sacrificing nutrition or simplicity.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

Here’s a quick look at what you’ll need to bring this deliciousness to life:

• 1 lb ground beef – choose lean for less grease

• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 cup heavy cream – for that rich, creamy texture

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – for meltiness

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – adds a savory kick

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

Each of these ingredients plays a role in delivering a creamy, cheesy, and comforting casserole. 🧀

Health Benefits of Ingredients in Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

While this dish feels indulgent, it’s got some surprisingly nutritious perks:

Cabbage

• Rich in vitamin C and K

• Great source of dietary fiber

• Low in calories

Ground Beef

• Excellent source of protein

• Provides iron and B vitamins

• Can be lean if you choose 90%+ lean meat

Cheese & Cream

• High in calcium and fat-soluble vitamins

• Adds satisfying richness, so smaller portions feel indulgent

Yes, it’s a creamy casserole, but there are real nutritional wins here, especially if paired with fresh veggies or a light salad.

How to Make Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

Let’s break this down in easy steps you can follow without stress.

Preheat & Sauté

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium.

3. Sauté diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant and soft.

4. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.

5. Drain excess fat if needed.

Cook the Cabbage

1. Stir in your chopped cabbage.

2. Let it cook for 5–7 minutes, until it starts to soften.

3. Pour in the heavy cream.

4. Add paprika, salt, and pepper.

5. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.

Assemble & Bake

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Transfer the creamy beef and cabbage mixture into the dish.

3. Sprinkle evenly with cheddar and Parmesan cheese.

4. Bake for 25–30 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

Cool & Serve

Let the casserole cool for a few minutes so it sets a little then serve up a big warm slice of cheesy joy!

Tips for Making the Perfect Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

• Use pre-shredded cheese for convenience, but freshly grated melts better.

• Want it richer? Stir in a spoon of cream cheese with the cream.

• Add a little mustard or Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor depth.

• Short on time? Use pre-chopped cabbage or coleslaw mix!

Smart Swaps and Variations

You can tweak this recipe to suit your dietary needs or fridge situation!

Protein Options

• Ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version

• Plant-based ground meat for vegetarians

Dairy-Free?

• Use plant-based cream and vegan cheese

Veggie Boost

• Add chopped bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for more color and nutrients

You can make Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole your own with just a few easy changes!

Serving Suggestions for Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

This dish is filling on its own, but if you want a little extra, here are some ideas:

• Side of green salad with a zesty vinaigrette

• Roasted carrots or broccoli

• Crusty bread to soak up the creamy goodness

• A light cucumber and dill yogurt salad for contrast

Drinks? Try a crisp white wine or a light beer or even iced tea or sparkling water with lemon.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storage

To keep your Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole fresh and delicious, proper storage is key. After the casserole has cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days perfect for easy lunches or a second dinner later in the week.

Allowing it to cool completely before refrigerating helps prevent condensation, which can make the casserole soggy over time. You can also store it directly in the baking dish by covering it tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap.

Reheating

Reheating is simple and won’t compromise flavor or texture. For individual portions, just microwave for 1–2 minutes until hot throughout. If you’re reheating a larger amount, place it in a preheated oven at 325°F (165°C) for about 15–20 minutes or until heated through. You may want to cover it loosely with foil to prevent the cheese from over-browning.

Can You Freeze It?

Absolutely! This casserole freezes beautifully. Once it’s cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight or reheat it straight from frozen just allow extra time in the oven.

Nutritional Snapshot (Approx. per serving)

• Calories: 430–500

• Protein: 25g

• Fat: 35g

• Carbs: 10g

• Fiber: 3g

These numbers are estimates, but they give a rough idea of what to expect. Great for low-carb or keto-style eaters!

FAQs about Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

Can I prepare Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can fully assemble the casserole, cover it, and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Just bake when ready.

Is this casserole keto-friendly?

Absolutely. It’s low in carbs, especially if you skip the bread crumbs or flour found in some versions.

What cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar is classic, but try mozzarella for meltiness or Gruyère for a fancier twist.

Can I make it spicier?

Sure! Add chili flakes, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.

More Reasons to Love Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

• Kid-friendly (they won’t even notice the cabbage!)

• Budget-conscious feeds a crowd for under $15

• Great for meal prep

• Freezer-friendly

• Can be customized endlessly based on what’s in your fridge

Final Thoughts on Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole

If you’re craving something hearty, creamy, and guaranteed to please the whole family, this dish is a total winner. Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole brings together everything we love about comfort food rich flavor, melty cheese, satisfying texture without being complicated or expensive.

It’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Whether you’re feeding picky kids, impressing dinner guests, or just treating yourself to a cozy homemade meal after a long day, this casserole has you covered. It strikes that perfect balance between indulgence and practicality easy enough for weeknights, yet impressive enough to serve for special gatherings.

You can dress it up or keep it simple. Add a pinch of crushed red pepper for heat, toss in leftover veggies for variety, or try a different cheese blend for a twist. It’s incredibly adaptable, which means you’ll never get bored of it.

And the best part? It reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it for lunch the next day or freeze leftovers for future busy nights.

So go on chop that cabbage, brown that beef, layer it all in creamy, cheesy goodness, and dive into your new favorite casserole. Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you.

Print