Name: Cabbage Beef Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium head cabbage, chopped; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce; 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1/2 cup beef broth; 2 cups cooked rice; 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella); 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1 tsp Italian seasoning

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Short Description

Cabbage Beef Bake is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, and a savory tomato-based sauce, all baked to perfection. This budget-friendly and nutritious recipe is easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple and Affordable – This dish uses inexpensive ingredients that are commonly found in most kitchens.
Healthy and Nutritious – Packed with protein from beef and fiber from cabbage, it’s a well-balanced meal.
Comforting and Flavorful – The combination of spices, beef, and cabbage creates a rich and satisfying taste.
Great for Meal Prep – It stores well, making it perfect for leftovers or batch cooking.
Versatile – Easily customizable with different seasonings or vegetables to suit your preferences.

Ingredients

Ground beef
Cabbage
Onion
Garlic
Diced tomatoes
Tomato sauce
Worcestershire sauce
Beef broth
Cooked rice
Shredded cheese
Olive oil
Salt
Pepper
Paprika
Italian seasoning

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
Prepare the cabbage – Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
Cook the beef – In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.
Sauté the aromatics – Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for a few minutes until fragrant.
Add the tomatoes and seasonings – Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Combine with cabbage – Add the chopped cabbage and cooked rice into the skillet. Mix well until evenly combined.
Transfer to the baking dish – Pour the mixture into the prepared dish and spread evenly.
Top with cheese – Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
Bake – Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve and enjoy – Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Variations

Make it Low-Carb – Substitute rice with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly option.
Use Ground Turkey or Chicken – Swap the beef for a leaner protein.
Spice it Up – Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for an extra kick.
Add More Vegetables – Bell peppers, mushrooms, or carrots can be great additions.
Cheese Options – Try using mozzarella, cheddar, or a blend for different flavors.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing – Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating – Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the bake in advance, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Absolutely! Use about 2 cups of fresh chopped tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes.

3. How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Swap the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative.

4. What type of cabbage works best?

Green cabbage is the best choice, but savoy or Napa cabbage can also be used.

5. Can I use quinoa instead of rice?

Yes! Quinoa is a great high-protein alternative to rice in this recipe.

6. What cheese works best for topping?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or Colby Jack cheese all melt well and add great flavor.

7. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and check other ingredients for gluten.

8. How do I make this dish dairy-free?

Skip the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

9. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Cook on low for 4-6 hours, then top with cheese before serving.

10. What side dishes go well with this?

Serve with crusty bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

Cabbage Beef Bake is a delicious, wholesome, and easy-to-make meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re preparing it for a quick dinner or planning meals for the week, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting flavors in every bite!

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