Name: Cabbage Beef Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cups cabbage, chopped; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup beef broth

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Cabbage beef bake is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the savory flavors of ground beef, tender cabbage, and a medley of other ingredients into a satisfying meal. Originating as a simple, home-cooked recipe, it has gained popularity due to its ease of preparation and delicious taste. This dish is particularly cherished in regions where cabbage is a staple, offering a nutritious and filling option for family dinners.

For those unfamiliar with cabbage beef bake, it’s a casserole-style dish where layers of cabbage and ground beef are baked together, often with the addition of rice, tomatoes, and cheese. The ingredients meld together, creating a rich, savory flavor profile that is both wholesome and delightful.

If you’re looking for a meal that combines ease, nutrition, and great taste, cabbage beef bake is an excellent choice.

Ingredients :

To make a cabbage beef bake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

1 pound ground beef: Provides the main protein source.

1 medium onion, chopped: Adds flavor and depth.
3 cups cabbage, chopped: The star vegetable of the dish.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds moisture and acidity.

1 cup cooked rice: Offers a starchy base.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the flavor.
1 teaspoon salt: For seasoning.

1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a bit of heat.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts over the top, adding a rich finish.
1/2 cup beef broth: Keeps the dish moist during baking.

Substitutions and variations can include using ground turkey instead of beef, adding bell peppers for extra vegetables, or incorporating spices like paprika for an additional kick.

For those interested in a lighter version, consider using cauliflower rice instead of regular rice or reducing the amount of cheese. This dish is quite versatile, allowing you to adjust based on dietary needs and preferences.

Nutritional Information :

A serving of cabbage beef bake (assuming a recipe that serves six) typically contains around 320 calories. This meal is well-balanced, offering a good mix of macronutrients:

Protein: The ground beef provides a substantial amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
Carbohydrates: The rice and tomatoes contribute to the carbohydrate content, providing energy.
Fats: The dish includes both healthy fats from the beef and cheese.

Cabbage is known for its health benefits, including high fiber content, which aids in digestion, and a variety of vitamins and minerals like Vitamin C and K. Beef adds essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.

For a complete nutritional breakdown, it’s essential to consider the specific brands and types of ingredients used, as these can significantly affect the overall nutrient profile.

Preparation Steps :

Preparing a cabbage beef bake is straightforward and requires the following steps:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure easy cleanup later.
Brown the ground beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is no longer pink and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Season the beef: Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. This step ensures that the meat is flavorful throughout the baking process.

Layer the ingredients: Begin by spreading half of the chopped cabbage in the bottom of the baking dish. Follow this with the beef mixture, then sprinkle the cooked rice evenly over the beef. Pour the undrained diced tomatoes over the rice, spreading them out to cover evenly.
Add the remaining cabbage: Layer the remaining cabbage on top. This double-layer technique helps to evenly distribute the flavors and textures of the dish.
Pour the beef broth: Drizzle the beef broth over the entire dish. This step is crucial as it adds moisture, ensuring that the cabbage cooks properly and the bake remains tender and juicy.

Cover and bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes. This initial baking phase allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften.
Add cheese and bake again: After 45 minutes, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Rest before serving: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period helps the bake to set, making it easier to cut and serve.

Cooking Techniques :

Mastering the cooking techniques for a cabbage beef bake ensures a delicious and well-textured dish. Here are some key techniques:

Browning the beef: Ensuring the beef is browned properly adds a depth of flavor to the dish. Browning creates a caramelized crust on the meat, which enhances its savory profile.
Properly chopping the cabbage: Cutting the cabbage into uniform pieces ensures even cooking. Large, uneven pieces may result in some parts being undercooked while others are overdone.

Layering for texture: The layering process helps distribute the ingredients evenly, ensuring that each bite contains a mix of flavors and textures.

For those interested in enhancing the flavor further, consider adding a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the beef mixture. This addition introduces a tangy, umami flavor that complements the richness of the beef and cheese.

Another technique to consider is par-cooking the cabbage before layering. Briefly sautéing the cabbage in the skillet after the beef can reduce the overall baking time and ensure the cabbage is tender.

Serving Suggestions :

Cabbage beef bake pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes and beverages. Here are some suggestions to enhance your meal:

Side Dishes: Serve with a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the bake. Steamed vegetables such as broccoli or green beans also complement the dish well.
Beverages: A glass of red wine, such as a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs excellently with the savory flavors of the bake. For non-alcoholic options, consider a sparkling water with a splash of lemon or a robust iced tea.

Presentation Tips: Serve the cabbage beef bake in the baking dish for a rustic, homey feel. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives to add a pop of color and freshness.

By incorporating these serving suggestions, you can elevate a simple dish into a memorable meal.

Storage and Reheating :

Proper storage and reheating are crucial for maintaining the quality of your cabbage beef bake. Here are some tips:

Storing Leftovers: Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container. The bake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and place in a freezer-safe container. The bake can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely with a microwave-safe lid. Heat on medium power until warmed through. Alternatively, reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until hot.