If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting, and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is just what you need! Combining tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and even easier to love. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this delicious dish!

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Why You’ll Love This Casserole

• Comfort food at its best: Warm, creamy, and satisfying.
• Budget-friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.

• Easy to make: Perfect for beginner cooks or busy weeknights.
• Versatile: Customize with your favorite spices or add-ins.
• Family-friendly: A dish that both kids and adults will enjoy.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious casserole:

For the Casserole:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small head of cabbage, shredded (about 6-8 cups)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme

• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Cream Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sour cream
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (or crushed crackers)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 tbsp melted butter

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage and Beef:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened.
• Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
• Stir in the shredded cabbage, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the cabbage is slightly softened. Remove from heat and set aside.

2. Make the Cream Sauce:

• In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
• Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
• Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

3. Assemble the Casserole:

• Spread the cabbage and beef mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish.
• Pour the cream sauce over the top, spreading it out to cover the entire surface.
• In a small bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, shredded cheddar cheese, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the casserole.

4. Bake and Serve:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
• Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

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Tips for Success

• Shred the cabbage finely: This ensures it cooks evenly and blends well with the other ingredients.
• Customize the spices: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a bit of heat.
• Make it ahead: Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
• Use different cheeses: Try mozzarella, Gouda, or a blend of cheeses for a unique flavor.

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Creative Variations

• Low-Carb Option: Replace the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour for a keto-friendly version

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils.
• Add Vegetables: Mix in diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

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Why This Recipe is Perfect for AdSense

This article is designed to attract a wide audience, from busy parents looking for easy dinner ideas to comfort food enthusiasts searching for hearty recipes. By including:

• Engaging visuals (you can add photos of the casserole before and after baking),
• Step-by-step instructions
• Customization tips, and
• Dietary variations,
  this content is highly shareable and likely to keep readers on your page longer—boosting your AdSense RPM!

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Final Thoughts

This Creamed Cabbage and Ground Beef Casserole is the ultimate comfort food dish that’s both delicious and easy to make. With its creamy sauce, savory beef, and tender cabbage, it’s a meal that will warm your heart and satisfy your hunger. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal prepping for the week, this casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a cozy, homemade meal!