Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole – Easy Creamy Comfort Food Dinner

Introduction

Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is a classic comfort food dish that brings together simple ingredients in the most delicious way. Tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a rich, creamy sauce are baked together until bubbly and golden, creating a meal that feels both hearty and homey.

This casserole is perfect for families who love filling, budget-friendly dinners. Cabbage is affordable, nutritious, and absorbs flavor beautifully, while ground beef adds protein and depth. When combined with cream, cheese, and seasonings, these humble ingredients transform into a rich and satisfying baked dish.

What makes this recipe especially appealing is its versatility. It works for weeknight dinners, meal prep, potlucks, and even freezer meals. It’s naturally low in carbs when served alone, yet pairs wonderfully with rice, bread, or potatoes for a heartier option.

If you’re looking for a cozy, old-fashioned casserole that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to please, Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole deserves a place in your regular rotation.

Ingredients

2 pounds ground beef

1 medium head green cabbage, chopped

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)

1 cup sour cream

1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup

1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onions

Preparation
Step 1:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2:

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease.

Step 3:

Add diced onion and garlic to the beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 4:

Stir in chopped cabbage and cook for 5–7 minutes until slightly softened. Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 5:

In a bowl, mix heavy cream, sour cream, and cream soup. Combine with the beef and cabbage mixture. Transfer to baking dish, top with cheeses, and bake uncovered for 30–35 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Variations

Low-Carb/Keto: Skip soup and use extra cream and cheese

Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or jalapeños

Bacon Cabbage Bake: Add cooked bacon bits

Vegetable Boost: Add carrots, mushrooms, or spinach

Lightened-Up: Use Greek yogurt and reduced-fat cheese

Cooking Note

Do not overcook the cabbage on the stovetop. It will continue to soften in the oven, and overcooking can make it mushy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread or rolls

Pair with mashed potatoes or rice

Add a fresh green salad

Serve with roasted vegetables

Enjoy with pickles or coleslaw

Tips

Use lean ground beef to reduce grease

Chop cabbage into even pieces

Let casserole rest 5–10 minutes before serving

Taste mixture before baking and adjust seasoning

Cover loosely with foil if cheese browns too fast

Prep Time:

20 minutes

Cooking Time:

35 minutes

Total Time:

55 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)

Calories: 540

Protein: 36g

Sodium: 760mg

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole?
Yes. Freeze unbaked or baked for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.

What type of cabbage works best?
Green cabbage works best, but Savoy cabbage is also great.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes. Ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter version.

How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 325°F or in the microwave with a splash of cream.

Conclusion

Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is a rich, comforting, and satisfying meal made with simple, wholesome ingredients. Tender cabbage, savory beef, and creamy sauce come together in a baked dish that’s perfect for family dinners and cozy nights at home. Easy to prepare and endlessly customizable, this casserole proves that classic comfort food never goes out of style.

Print