Cheesy Cabbage Casserole is the ultimate comfort food — hearty, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. With a combination of seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, tangy tomatoes, and melty cheddar cheese, this one-pan meal is as satisfying as it is simple. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste or a dish to share with family and friends, this casserole delivers every time. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and packed with protein, making it a wholesome choice for busy households. If you’re craving a cozy, cheesy, and veggie-loaded dish, this recipe will quickly become a new favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole
There are countless reasons to love this recipe. First, it’s one-pan convenience at its finest, meaning minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Second, it’s nutrient-dense, giving you a healthy serving of protein and fiber in every bite. Third, the flavor combination is unbeatable — juicy ground beef, sautéed cabbage, Italian-seasoned tomato sauce, and plenty of melted cheddar create a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Best of all, it’s highly customizable. You can swap out ingredients based on your preferences or what’s in your pantry. Whether you’re following a low-carb lifestyle or simply want an easy, family-friendly meal, this cheesy cabbage casserole has you covered.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:
1 pound lean ground beef – The hearty base for the dish.
½ medium onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced – For a fragrant, savory kick.
3 cups chopped cabbage – The star of the show, bringing crunch and nutrition.
1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes – Adds tangy juiciness.
1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce – For a rich, saucy texture.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs for classic flavor.
2 teaspoons salt – Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Melty, gooey, and oh-so-cheesy.
Minced parsley – For garnish and a fresh pop of color.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Cheesy Cabbage Casserole
Brown the beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Add aromatics: When the beef is halfway done, stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and onions are softened.
Incorporate the veggies and sauce: Stir in the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and salt. Mix everything thoroughly so the cabbage is well-coated in the sauce.
Cook until tender: Cover the skillet and let the mixture cook for about 15 minutes, or until the cabbage reaches your preferred level of tenderness.
Add the cheese: Remove from heat and sprinkle the shredded cheddar on top. Cover briefly or let sit for 5 minutes until the cheese melts.
Garnish and serve: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and serve warm.
Helpful Tips
Shred cabbage evenly: This ensures it cooks at the same rate and maintains a nice texture.
Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and add extra salt, pepper, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Use freshly shredded cheese: It melts better than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.
Make it ahead: This dish reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep.
Substitutions and Variations
Swap the meat: Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef.
Go vegetarian: Replace the meat with cooked lentils or a plant-based protein.
Try different cheeses: Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a spicy pepper jack can change the flavor profile.
Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato mixture.
Low-carb twist: Skip the tomatoes and use a creamy Alfredo sauce for a keto-friendly variation.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately:
Calories: 333
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 95mg
Sodium: 1,237mg
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 6g
Serving Suggestions
Pair this cheesy cabbage casserole with:
A crusty baguette or garlic bread for soaking up the sauce.
A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette for freshness.
Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus for extra veggies.
Mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash for a hearty, comforting side.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Cabbage Casserole
Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
Absolutely! Pre-shredded cabbage (like coleslaw mix) can save time. Just be sure to measure out about 3 cups.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare it as directed, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
What’s the best way to make this dish lower in sodium?
Use low-sodium canned tomatoes and tomato sauce, and reduce the added salt to taste.
Can I bake this casserole?
Definitely. After cooking the beef and cabbage mixture, transfer it to a baking dish, sprinkle with cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes until bubbly.
How can I make this dish creamier?
Stir in a half-cup of sour cream or cream cheese after the cabbage has softened for a creamy twist.
Conclusion
Thank you for trying this Cheesy Cabbage Casserole — a simple yet satisfying meal that’s as comforting as a warm hug. This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for its ease, rich flavor, and ability to please even the pickiest eaters. I hope it becomes a favorite in your home too. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the skillet or reheated for a quick lunch, this dish delivers big on taste with minimal effort. Happy cooking, and thank you for being part of this food-loving community — may your kitchen always be filled with good food and great memories!
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Cheesy Cabbage Casserole
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Cheesy Cabbage Casserole combines ground beef, tender cabbage, Italian-seasoned tomatoes, and melty cheddar cheese for a hearty one-pan meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a comforting dish the whole family will love.
Ingredients
1 pound lean ground beef
½ medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups chopped cabbage
1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
2 teaspoons salt
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Minced parsley, for garnish
Instructions
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef, crumbling as it browns.
Add onion and garlic; cook until beef is browned and onions are softened.
Stir in cabbage, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, and salt.
Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, until the cabbage is tender.
Remove from heat, sprinkle with cheddar cheese, cover, and let sit for 5 minutes until melted.
Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
Notes
Substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or plant-based protein for a twist.
Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
This dish reheats well, making it great for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 333
- Sugar: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Protein: 30g