Cabbage Beef Bake

Cabbage beef bake became one of my weeknight saviors during a stretch when I was juggling work, school pickups, and trying to avoid takeout for the third time that week so I needed something hearty that didn’t take forever to prep. I had a half head of cabbage sitting in the fridge and some ground beef I had already thawed, so I layered them up with a few pantry staples and this comforting casserole was born.

Now it’s a regular in my rotation because it’s warm, cheesy, saucy, and packed with flavor plus it’s a sneaky way to get more veggies on the table without anyone complaining. I love how it feels like comfort food but with a budget-friendly and wholesome twist that the whole family dives into without hesitation.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Ground beef – The main protein, rich and savory, forming the hearty base.
• Cabbage – Adds subtle sweetness, bulk, and helps lighten up the dish.
• Onion – Brings flavor and depth to the beef mixture.
• Garlic – Gives the casserole that satisfying savory backbone.
• Tomato sauce – Creates the saucy layer that ties everything together.
• Diced tomatoes – Add texture and slight acidity to balance the richness.
• Italian seasoning – Provides a balanced, herby flavor that complements the beef and tomatoes.
• Salt and pepper – Basic seasonings that bring out all the flavors.
• Shredded cheese – I use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for melt and flavor on top.

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet – To cook the beef and aromatics before assembling.
• Baking dish (9×13) – Holds all the layers and bakes evenly in the oven.
• Knife and cutting board – For chopping the cabbage and onion.
• Wooden spoon – To stir the beef mixture without scratching your skillet.
• Mixing bowl (optional) – For tossing the cabbage with seasonings.
• Aluminum foil – To cover the dish while it bakes and keep everything moist.

Instructions

Step 1:

I start by preheating the oven to 375°F and lightly greasing my baking dish.

Step 2:

In a large skillet, I brown the ground beef over medium heat until it’s fully cooked, then I drain any excess grease.

Step 3:

I stir in the chopped onion and garlic and let them cook for about 3 minutes until fragrant and soft.

Step 4:

Next, I add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. I let it all simmer together for about 5–10 minutes so the flavors can combine.

Step 5:

While that simmers, I chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and spread half of it in the bottom of my baking dish.

Step 6:

I spoon half of the beef mixture over the cabbage, then repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage and beef mixture.

Step 7:

I cover the dish with foil and bake it for 40 minutes until the cabbage is tender.

Step 8:

After that, I remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheese all over the top, and bake uncovered for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 9:

I let it cool for about 5 minutes before serving so the layers settle and it’s easier to slice.

Tips

I sometimes mix in a bit of cooked rice or quinoa with the beef mixture to stretch the servings.

If you like heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce does the trick.

Leftovers are fantastic the next day — the flavors only get better!

You can swap the ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Ways to Serve

With a side salad or roasted vegetables for balance

Alongside garlic bread or warm dinner rolls

Topped with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt

As a meal prep option — it packs and reheats beautifully

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cabbage Beef Bake ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble it up to a day ahead, refrigerate, then bake when ready.

Can I freeze Cabbage Beef Bake?

Absolutely. I let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

What kind of cabbage works best for this recipe?

I usually go with green cabbage, but savoy or Napa also works well.

How do I make it low-carb?

It already is pretty low in carbs, but you can skip any added rice and keep the focus on meat and cabbage.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this cabbage beef bake a try! It’s one of those recipes that’s easy to throw together, budget-friendly, and still feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day. I’d love to know how you make it your own or if it becomes a staple in your kitchen too!

Happy Cooking!

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