Savory Cabbage Casserole

Save this recipe on:

When comfort food calls, nothing hits the spot quite like a bubbling hot Savory Cabbage Casserole straight from the oven. This dish combines tender layers of cabbage with seasoned ground beef, a rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese. The result is a satisfying, no-fuss dinner that’s hearty enough to please even the biggest appetites. It’s got all the cozy vibes of a classic lasagna, but with a lighter twist thanks to the cabbage, making it a great low-carb alternative.

Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or meal prep Sundays, this casserole is as versatile as it is delicious. With minimal prep and simple ingredients, it transforms everyday staples into something extraordinary. You’ll love how it fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and comes together in one comforting, crave-worthy bake.

---

Why You’ll Love This Savory Cabbage Casserole

• It’s a cozy and filling one-dish meal.
• Easy to make with everyday ingredients.
• Budget-friendly and perfect for feeding a crowd.
• Low-carb and gluten-free friendly.
• Great for leftovers – reheats beautifully.

---

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get started, you’ll need a few kitchen essentials to ensure this casserole turns out just right. A large skillet is crucial for browning the meat and sautéing the onions and garlic. You’ll also want a deep 9×13-inch casserole dish – this allows for generous layering and even cooking. A sharp chef’s knife makes chopping cabbage quicker and safer, and a wooden spoon is helpful for stirring without scratching your cookware. Lastly, don’t forget a cheese grater if you’re shredding fresh cheese – it melts better and tastes fresher than pre-shredded.

---

Preparation Tips

Start by preheating your oven to ensure even baking. When chopping the cabbage, aim for medium-sized shreds – not too fine, not too chunky. This helps it cook through without becoming mushy. Be sure to drain any excess fat after browning the ground beef to keep the casserole from becoming greasy. Layering is key: spread the cabbage, meat mixture, sauce, and cheese in even layers for balanced flavor in every bite. Cover with foil for the first part of baking to keep it moist, then uncover to let the cheese get golden and bubbly. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving so the layers can set.

---

Ingredients for this Savory Cabbage Casserole

• 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a cheese blend)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

---

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Start by removing the tough outer leaves of the cabbage and cutting it into medium-sized pieces. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the chopped cabbage and cook for about 5-7 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Meat and Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until fully browned. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Season the Meat Mixture

Once the beef is browned, stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes to let the flavors blend. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Layer the Casserole

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, start with a layer of half the cabbage. Top with half the meat mixture, then sprinkle with one-third of the shredded cheese. Repeat the layers: cabbage, meat mixture, and another third of cheese. Reserve the final portion of cheese for topping later.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top, and bake uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Let the casserole rest for at least 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy!

---

Notes

This casserole is very forgiving and can be tailored to your preferences. You can swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the meat mixture. For extra creaminess, stir a spoonful of sour cream into the tomato sauce layer. This dish also pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad to round out the meal.

---

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the cabbage: Boiling it too long before baking can make the final casserole mushy.
• Skipping the drain: Not draining the beef properly can lead to a greasy casserole.
• Uneven layering: Uneven distribution of ingredients can cause inconsistent bites — aim for balanced layers.
• Using pre-shredded cheese: It may not melt as smoothly as freshly shredded cheese.
• Rushing the rest time: Allowing the casserole to sit after baking helps it firm up and enhances the flavors.

---

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover cabbage casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, it freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or bake the full dish at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

---

Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (based on 6 servings):

• Calories: ~375 kcal
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 14g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 6g
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Cholesterol: 75mg

---

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Just bake as directed when ready.

Can I use purple cabbage instead of green?

You can, but it will slightly change the flavor and color of the dish. Green cabbage is more neutral and traditional for this recipe.

Is this recipe low-carb?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs since cabbage replaces pasta or rice. It’s keto-friendly too.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or plant-based ground.

How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?

The cheese should be melted and bubbly, and the edges slightly browned. Let it rest so the layers set.

What cheese works best?

Sharp cheddar melts well and adds flavor, but you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend.

Can I add rice or pasta to the casserole?

Yes, but it changes the nature of the dish. Cook the rice or pasta separately and mix it in with the meat before layering.

What should I serve with this casserole?

A crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm bread make great sides for this hearty main dish.

---

Conclusion

Savory Cabbage Casserole is the ultimate comfort meal that delivers big flavor with simple ingredients. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable to suit your taste or dietary needs. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal prepping for the week, this satisfying bake is bound to become a staple on your dinner table.

---

Print

Save this recipe on: