Description
Looking for a hearty, budget-friendly dinner idea that doesn’t skimp on flavor? This Savory Cabbage Casserole is the perfect one-dish meal that checks all the boxes: quick to prep, easy to customize, and satisfying enough for the whole family. It’s a comforting, low-carb twist on traditional casseroles, packed with ground beef, tender cabbage, tomato richness, and bubbly cheese. Ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a cozy holiday side, this easy recipe brings together simple ingredients in a truly delicious way. If you’re browsing for healthy snack ideas, quick dinner solutions, or family-style food ideas, this casserole has your back.
Ingredients
1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
1 lb ground beef
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
15 oz can tomato sauce
14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, drained
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground black pepper
1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Remove the tough outer leaves of the cabbage and chop into medium pieces. Boil in salted water for 5-7 minutes until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
3. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Layer half the cabbage in a 9×13-inch baking dish, top with half the meat mixture, and sprinkle with one-third of the cheese. Repeat layers.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover, top with remaining cheese, and bake for another 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
Freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-shredded and adds a richer texture.
Don’t overcook the cabbage during boiling — it will continue cooking in the oven.
Allow the casserole to rest before serving to help it firm up and slice cleanly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg