How to Make the Ultimate Ground Beef & Cabbage Cheddar Casserole
This Hamburger Cabbage Casserole is a hearty, all-in-one weeknight solution that layers tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and melted sharp cheddar into a satisfyingly creamy bake. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s perfect for busy families, potlucks, or meal prep. The optional breadcrumb topping adds a golden crunch, while ingredient swaps—like turkey, sausage, or vegetarian lentils—offer flexibility to suit any diet. Refrigerate leftovers for up to four days or freeze individual portions for quick reheating. Serve alongside crisp salads, crusty bread, or roasted vegetables for a balanced, flavorful dinner that pleases every palate.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 small head green cabbage (about 1½ lb/680 g), cored and thinly sliced
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
- ½ cup milk
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese, plus ½ cup for topping
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (optional, for extra crunch)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375 °F (190 °C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil and sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Increase heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Break it up with a spatula and cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper, then remove from heat.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and milk. Add the sliced cabbage, cooked beef mixture, and 1 cup shredded cheddar. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it into an even layer. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup cheddar over the top, and if using, evenly distribute the breadcrumbs for a crisp topping.
- Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the breadcrumbs are golden.
- Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
Notes
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To enhance flavor, brown the ground beef with a squeeze of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of smoked paprika before mixing.
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For extra creaminess, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt into the egg-milk binder.
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Make it gluten-free by substituting almond flour or crushed rice crackers for breadcrumbs.