If you’re craving a comforting, hearty meal that bursts with flavor and warmth, the Savory Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe is about to become your go-to favorite. This delightful casserole combines tender ground beef, vibrant shredded cabbage, and juicy tomatoes all baked to perfection alongside fluffy rice. Every bite paints a beautiful melody of textures and tastes, making it a perfect weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare. You’ll love how this dish transforms everyday ingredients into an extraordinary plate of home-cooked happiness.

Savory Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

To put together this Savory Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe, you’ll only need a handful of simple ingredients, each bringing its own magic to the dish. The balance of fresh cabbage, savory beef, and spices is essential for creating the rich depth of flavor and comforting texture you’ll adore.

1 lb ground beef: The hearty base that adds protein and a rich savoriness.

1 small onion, chopped: Brings sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
1 small cabbage, shredded: Adds a lovely crunch and subtle earthiness that softens beautifully when baked.

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice: Infuses juicy tanginess and moisture to keep everything tender.
1 cup cooked rice: Makes the dish wholesome and filling, while soaking up all the delicious juices.

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds a complex umami punch that lifts all the flavors.
1 tsp garlic powder: A fragrant seasoning that complements the beef and cabbage perfectly.
1 tsp paprika: Offers a mild smokiness and beautiful color to the bake.

1/2 tsp salt: Essential to enhance and bring all the elements together.
1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds just the right hint of spiciness and warmth.

How to Make Savory Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Having your ingredients chopped and ready makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef and Onion

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion. Cook until browned, about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally to break up any chunks. Once browned, make sure to drain off any excess fat so your bake won’t be greasy but still rich in flavor.

Step 3: Combine All Ingredients in the Skillet

Next, add the shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes with their juice, cooked rice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well to evenly distribute all the fantastic flavors.

Step 4: Simmer to Meld the Flavors

Allow the mixture to simmer gently for about 5 minutes. This step lets the cabbage soften slightly and allows the spices and sauces to blend into a harmonious, savory mixture that will carry through the bake.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish and Bake

Spread the beef and cabbage mixture evenly into your prepared baking dish. Cover it with foil to trap moisture and bake for 30 to 35 minutes. Cooking covered keeps the cabbage tender and juicy, creating that perfect balance of texture you’re after.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once out of the oven, give the bake a 5-minute rest to let the flavors fully settle. Serving the Savory Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe warm unlocks the best experience of creamy rice, tender cabbage, and succulent beef in every bite.

How to Serve Savory Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions adds a burst of color and refreshing herbaceous notes that brighten the dish. A dollop of sour cream or a few grates of sharp cheddar cheese on top can make it feel extra indulgent and creamy.

Side Dishes

This bake pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted root vegetables for added freshness and crunch. Lightly buttered dinner rolls or crusty bread are also wonderful companions to soak up the delicious savory juices.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the bake inside hollowed-out bell peppers or as a filling for stuffed cabbage leaves, giving a sophisticated flair to a humble classic. You can also portion it into individual ramekins for a charming, personal-sized meal presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Savory Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it an even tastier quick meal the next day.

Freezing

This dish freezes wonderfully. After it has cooled completely, transfer into a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 325°F (165°C) covered with foil, or microwave in a covered dish until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth can help retain moisture during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great leaner alternatives while still providing a delicious base. You could also try sausage for a spicier twist.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply swap the ground beef with cooked lentils, diced mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute. Adding some extra seasoning will keep the bold flavor intact.

Can I prepare this bake ahead of time and refrigerate before baking?

Definitely! Assemble the mixture in your baking dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This helps flavors develop even more.

What is the best type of rice to use?

Any cooked white or brown rice works well here. Leftover rice is perfect because it’s drier and soaks up the sauce better without becoming mushy.

Can I add cheese inside the bake?

For sure! Mixing shredded cheese into the bake before cooking or sprinkling some on top during the last 10 minutes of baking creates a melty, golden crust that’s simply irresistible.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly wonderful about the way the Savory Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe combines simple ingredients into a heartwarming, flavorful casserole that feels like a big cozy hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends or just treating yourself, this dish will fill your kitchen with amazing aromas and your belly with comforting goodness. Give it a try—you might just find a new favorite that keeps you coming back for more!

Savory Cabbage Beef Bake Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 8 reviews

Author: lina
Total Time: 57 minutes

Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and flavorful Savory Cabbage Beef Bake combining ground beef, shredded cabbage, tomatoes, and rice, seasoned with Worcestershire sauce and spices, then baked to tender perfection. This comforting casserole is easy to prepare and perfect for a satisfying family meal.

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
Cook Beef and Onion: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from being greasy.

Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Stir in the shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes with their juice, cooked rice, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly to combine the flavors.
Simmer Mixture: Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the flavors meld and the cabbage begins to soften.
Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure uniform cooking.

Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
Rest and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the bake to set. Serve warm as a satisfying main course.

Notes

For a lower-carb version, substitute the cooked rice with cauliflower rice.

You can add shredded cheese on top before baking for a cheesy twist.
If you prefer spicier food, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

Use lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) to reduce fat content.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 42 minutes

Category: Main Course, Casserole
Method: Baking, Sautéing, Simmering
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1/6 of recipe)
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 6 g

Sodium: 480 mg
Fat: 15 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g

Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g

Fiber: 5 g
Protein: 22 g
Cholesterol: 65 mg

Keywords: cabbage beef bake, ground beef casserole, savory cabbage bake, easy casserole recipe, comfort food, baked ground beef dish