If you’ve ever craved that perfect blend of comfort food and bold Southern flavors, this Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe is about to become your new go-to. Imagine tender, seasoned ground beef mingling with sweet, softened cabbage, all simmered together with juicy tomatoes and fragrant spices, then topped with a golden layer of melted cheddar cheese. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that warms your soul and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Trust me, this recipe brings a little bit of Southern hospitality to your dinner table in every delicious bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t let the simple list fool you; each ingredient plays a vital role in building the rich and hearty flavor of this Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe. From the freshness of the cabbage to the melt-in-your-mouth cheese topping, this dish thrives on straightforward, wholesome components.
- 1 pound ground beef: The protein base that gives this bake its satisfying heartiness and rich flavor.
- 1 medium onion (chopped): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Brings a fragrant punch that complements the savory beef perfectly.
- 1 medium head of cabbage (chopped): The star vegetable—softens beautifully, adding texture and subtle sweetness.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (undrained): Provides juiciness and a burst of tangy goodness throughout the bake.
- 1 cup beef broth: Enhances the savory notes and keeps the casserole moist.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for balancing the flavors and seasoning every ingredient just right.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to round out the seasoning.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Offers a mild smokiness and vibrant color that’s quintessentially Southern.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses a gentle herbal note that complements the beef and cabbage.
- 1 cup cheddar cheese (shredded): The irresistible finishing touch—gooey, melty, and packed with flavor.
How to Make Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures it’s ready to go once your delicious mixture is prepared, so your bake cooks evenly and perfectly.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s fully browned and flavorful. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat—that way, your dish stays rich without being greasy.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onions turn translucent and soften, releasing their sweet aroma. This step builds a savory foundation that ties everything together.
Step 4: Combine Cabbage and Seasonings
Stir in the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme. Mix everything thoroughly so the cabbage is coated with flavorful juices and spices.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish
Pour your mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. This dish size allows the cabbage and beef to cook through nicely while giving the cheese topping plenty of room to melt.
Step 6: Bake Covered
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it in the oven. Baking for 45 minutes lets the cabbage soften and all the flavors marry beautifully.
Step 7: Add Cheese Topping and Finish Baking
Carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return the bake to the oven uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Step 8: Let It Rest
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for a few minutes to set up before serving. This little wait makes it easier to slice and serve while giving the flavors a moment to settle perfectly.
How to Serve Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions adds a pop of color and fresh flavor. For a little extra zing, a dash of hot sauce on the side gives a welcoming kick that enhances the smoky paprika and juicy beef.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with classic Southern sides. Think creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the savory juices or warm cornbread to add a hint of sweetness. A simple salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also balance the richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve individual portions in rustic ramekins for a cozy vibe, or layer the bake over cooked rice or grits to stretch it out and make the meal even heartier. For a crowd-pleaser, present it family-style right from the baking dish, encouraging everyone to dig in together.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap your Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3 days and still taste just as comforting.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Just cool completely, then pack it into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) to maintain that crispy cheese topping and warm the filling evenly. Alternatively, microwave portions on medium power, stirring occasionally for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar provides that classic sharpness and melt, feel free to experiment with mozzarella for extra gooeyness or pepper jack for some heat.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, all the ingredients in the Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and tasty option for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I substitute the ground beef for another protein?
You can replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives to suit your dietary preferences—all will adapt well in this recipe.
How spicy is this casserole?
This recipe has a mild to moderate flavor profile thanks to the paprika and black pepper, but it’s not spicy hot. You can always add cayenne or hot sauce if you like more heat.
Can I prepare this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the beef for hearty mushrooms or lentils, and use vegetable broth. The cabbage and seasonings still make this bake deeply satisfying without meat.
Final Thoughts
Trying the Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe is like inviting a little southern charm right into your kitchen. Its layers of tender beef, cabbage, and cheese make it a comforting meal perfect for any day of the week. Once you make it, this dish will quickly become a beloved staple that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious to eat. Go ahead, give it a try—you won’t regret it!
Print
Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
Description
A hearty Southern Style Cabbage Beef Bake combining ground beef, fresh cabbage, and savory spices baked to perfection with melted cheddar cheese on top. This comforting casserole is perfect for a family dinner, delivering a flavorful and nutritious meal in just over an hour.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
Dairy
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is fully browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.
- Sauté onions and garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onion is translucent, enhancing the dish’s flavor.
- Combine ingredients: Stir in the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes with juices, beef broth, salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme until thoroughly mixed.
- Transfer to baking dish: Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Bake covered: Cover with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes to allow flavors to meld and cabbage to soften.
- Add cheese and continue baking: Remove the foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top, and return to the oven for another 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set slightly for easier portioning.
Notes
- Drain the ground beef well to reduce excess fat for a healthier dish.
- Use fresh cheddar cheese for better melting and flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; extra paprika will add a smoky flavor.
- This casserole can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated.
- For a milder taste, reduce or omit the black pepper.
