Few dishes bring as much comfort to the table as a well-baked casserole. Warm, cheesy, and satisfying, casseroles are the kind of meals that feel like a hug on a plate. Among the many variations, Easy Cabbage Casserole stands out as both budget-friendly and nutritious.
This recipe combines the humble cabbage—a vegetable often overlooked—with savory ground meat, tangy tomatoes, creamy sour cream, and a gooey blanket of melted cheese. The result? A hearty, wholesome dish that works just as well for a casual weeknight dinner as it does for a family gathering.
If you’re searching for a comforting recipe that’s easy to make, customizable, and even better the next day, this casserole deserves a permanent spot on your menu.
Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Casserole
This dish isn’t just another casserole—it’s one that delivers comfort, simplicity, and nutrition all in one bite. Here’s why it’s so irresistible:
- Simple Ingredients: Everything comes from everyday pantry and fridge staples—cabbage, ground beef, onion, sour cream, cheese, and spices.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: Tender cabbage layered with savory beef and creamy sauce, all finished with golden melted cheese.
- Quick to Assemble: With minimal prep and hands-off baking, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Works as a main dish or side dish, and pairs well with many meals.
- Great Leftovers: Like many casseroles, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For a casserole that serves 4–6 people, gather these ingredients:
Main Casserole
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or turkey/chicken for a lighter version)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes, drained
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella for a milder flavor)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Crunchy Topping
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or oil spray.
2. Cook the Meat
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess fat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Add Seasonings and Tomatoes
Stir in diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
4. Prepare the Cabbage
Chop cabbage into bite-sized pieces. You may:
- Sauté lightly (5 minutes in a pan with oil) for softer cabbage.
- Use raw cabbage if you prefer more texture after baking.
5. Assemble the Casserole
Spread chopped cabbage in the baking dish. Pour the meat mixture evenly over it. Add sour cream and stir gently to combine.
6. Add Cheese and Topping
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top. If you’d like a crispy finish, mix breadcrumbs with melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.
7. Bake
Place in the oven and bake for 30–40 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. Rest and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve hot and enjoy the comfort in every bite.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about casseroles is their flexibility. Try these twists:
- Vegetarian: Swap ground beef for lentils or plant-based meat crumbles.
- Low-Carb/Keto: Skip the breadcrumbs and use extra cheese for topping.
- Different Cheeses: Try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese.
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.
- Sausage Version: Replace beef with Italian sausage for extra flavor.
Tips for Success
- Avoid Watery Casserole: Drain the tomatoes well and sauté cabbage briefly before layering.
- Cheese Tip: Use freshly shredded cheese—it melts creamier than pre-shredded.
- Layering Trick: Stir sour cream into the mixture instead of leaving it in chunks, so it spreads evenly.
- Golden Top: For perfectly browned cheese, broil the casserole for 2 minutes at the end.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs beautifully with sides:
- Fresh Salad: A crisp cucumber or garden salad balances the richness.
- Bread or Rolls: Garlic bread or crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up juices.
- Soup Pairing: Try tomato soup or chicken broth as a light starter.
- Rice or Potatoes: Serve over rice or mashed potatoes for extra comfort.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap cooled casserole tightly in foil or freezer-safe bags. Freeze up to 3 months.
- Reheating:
- Oven: Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
- Microwave: Reheat single portions for 2–3 minutes.
Nutritional Benefits of Cabbage Casserole
- Cabbage: Low in calories, high in fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K.
- Protein: Ground beef or turkey adds filling protein.
- Balanced Meal: When served with a light side, this dish makes a wholesome dinner.
- Low-Carb Option: Without breadcrumbs, it fits well into a keto lifestyle.
Make-Ahead and Meal Prep Ideas
- Prepare casserole up to 24 hours ahead, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake as usual.
- Divide into individual portions for meal-prep lunches.
- Freeze unbaked casserole for a quick future dinner—just thaw overnight before baking.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking cabbage: Leads to mushy texture. Keep baking time moderate.
- Skipping seasoning: Cabbage is mild—don’t forget garlic, paprika, and Worcestershire.
- Too much liquid: Always drain canned tomatoes fully.
- Not resting before slicing: Letting it sit for 5 minutes prevents it from falling apart.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cheese and plant-based sour cream.
2. Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Yes, cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
3. Can I use pre-shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix?
Absolutely! Just sauté lightly before adding to the casserole.
4. Can I add more vegetables?
Yes—zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers work well.
5. Is it freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
6. How do I make it spicier?
Add chili powder, cayenne, or hot sauce.
7. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground chicken or turkey works great.
8. What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Cheddar gives bold flavor, mozzarella is mild, Monterey Jack adds creaminess.
9. Can I prepare it without sour cream?
Yes, substitute Greek yogurt or cream cheese.
10. How do I keep the topping crunchy?
Bake uncovered and add the breadcrumb topping just before the final 15 minutes.
11. Can I make it ahead for parties?
Yes, assemble the night before, refrigerate, and bake when needed.
12. Can I reduce the fat content?
Yes, use lean ground turkey and low-fat cheese.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 23 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
(Values will vary depending on substitutions.)
Final Thoughts
Easy Cabbage Casserole is one of those timeless recipes that delivers on every level—comfort, flavor, nutrition, and convenience. It’s affordable, family-friendly, and endlessly adaptable to your taste.
Whether you make it cheesy and rich, light and low-carb, or packed with extra veggies, this casserole will warm your kitchen and your heart. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a dish your family requests again and again.
So grab a head of cabbage, a skillet, and your favorite baking dish—it’s time to bring comfort straight from the oven to your table.
