When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing more comforting than a warm, filling casserole that satisfies your hunger and warms your soul. This Hearty Cabbage & Ground Beef Casserole is a timeless recipe that combines tender cabbage, savory ground beef, creamy potatoes, and rich seasonings into one delicious dish. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this cozy classic will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Casserole

This casserole is all about simplicity and flavor. It uses affordable, pantry-friendly ingredients while delivering a hearty, satisfying meal that feeds a crowd. The combination of cabbage, ground beef, and creamy potatoes creates layers of texture and taste that make every bite irresistible. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—you can customize it with your favorite spices or add-ins to suit your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Ground Beef Mixture:

• 1 lb ground beef (you can also use turkey or chicken for a lighter option)
• 1 small onion , finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic , minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked paprika adds extra depth)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth for a milder flavor)

For the Cabbage Layer:

• 1 medium head of cabbage , shredded (about 6 cups)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Potato Topping:

• 4 large russet potatoes , peeled and diced
• 2 cups milk (whole milk works best for creaminess)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for an extra cheesy finish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Mixture

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef , breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Cook until browned and no longer pink.
3. Stir in the onion and garlic , cooking until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
4. Sprinkle in the paprika , thyme , salt , and pepper , stirring well to coat the beef evenly.
5. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat and let it cook for 5–7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Cabbage

1. In a separate large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the shredded cabbage and season with salt and pepper . Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens and wilts slightly (about 8–10 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Potatoes

1. Place the diced potatoes in a pot and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender (about 15 minutes).
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them with the milk and butter until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. If desired, stir in the cheddar cheese for a richer flavor.

Step 4: Assemble the Casserole

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) .
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and start layering:
   • Spread half of the cooked cabbage evenly across the bottom of the dish.
   • Top with the ground beef mixture , spreading it out evenly.
   • Add the remaining cabbage on top of the beef.
   • Finish with a generous layer of the creamy mashed potatoes , smoothing it out to cover the entire surface.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 30 minutes , then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes , or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
3. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle.

Tips for Making the Best Hearty Cabbage & Ground Beef Casserole

• Add Vegetables : Enhance the nutritional value by adding diced carrots, bell peppers, or peas to the ground beef mixture.
• Spice It Up : For some heat, mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Make Ahead : Prepare the casserole up to a day in advance, refrigerate it, and bake when ready. Simply increase the baking time by 10–15 minutes if starting from cold.
• Freeze for Later : Portion out leftovers and freeze them for easy reheating on busy nights.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Cabbage & Ground Beef Casserole is the epitome of comfort food. With its rich flavors, satisfying textures, and budget-friendly ingredients, it’s perfect for feeding a hungry family or sharing with friends. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this casserole delivers every time!

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out our other cozy classics designed to bring warmth and joy to your table. From soups to stews, we’ve got everything you need to keep your meals delicious and comforting. Happy cooking! 🍲✨