If you’re looking for a hearty dinner that’s comforting, affordable, and easy to throw together, this Cabbage Beef Bake is the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat. Layers of tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, creamy tomato sauce, and melted cheese come together in one simple casserole dish—perfect for feeding the family without a lot of fuss.
This is one of those down-home meals that tastes like it’s been cooking all day, but it only takes a few basic ingredients and a little oven time to make it happen.
Classic Cabbage Casserole with a Cheesy Twist
We all have those recipes that show up when we want something warm, filling, and reliable—and this one checks all the boxes. The cabbage gets soft and slightly sweet as it bakes, while the beef mixture adds a savory depth. And the creamy layer of tomato sauce and sour cream? That’s what ties it all together. Top it off with a layer of melted cheese and it’s the kind of meal that has everyone going back for seconds.
It’s budget-friendly, freezer-friendly, and especially great during the colder months when you want something cozy straight from the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, absolutely. Ground turkey works great in this recipe. You can also use ground chicken or a mix of meats if you’d like.
Do I need to pre-cook the cabbage?
Nope! That’s one of the best parts—just shred it and layer it raw into the casserole. It softens perfectly in the oven as it bakes.
What kind of cheese should I use?
Swiss cheese melts beautifully and adds a little nutty flavor, but cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack would all work too. Use what you’ve got.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. You can assemble the casserole, cover it, and keep it in the fridge overnight. Just bake it when you’re ready (add a few extra minutes if it’s cold from the fridge).
Does this freeze well?
It sure does. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze. When you’re ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting cabbage bake:
- 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
- 1½ pounds ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- ½ cup chopped red bell pepper
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, but adds great flavor)
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup reduced-fat sour cream
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese (or your favorite kind)
How to Make Cabbage Beef Bake
Step 1: Preheat and prep
Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Layer the cabbage
Spread the shredded cabbage evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. No need to cook it first—just raw cabbage is fine here.
Step 3: Cook the beef mixture
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the onion and bell pepper. Cook until the meat is no longer pink, then drain any grease. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), salt, pepper, sugar, and caraway seeds. Mix it all together and spoon it over the cabbage.
Step 4: Mix and pour the sauce
In a small bowl, stir together the tomato sauce and sour cream until smooth. Pour this mixture evenly over the beef layer.
Step 5: Bake it up
Cover the casserole tightly with foil and bake for 1 hour. Then, uncover, sprinkle the cheese evenly on top, and return to the oven for another 15–20 minutes until bubbly and golden.
Step 6: Let it rest and serve
Allow the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes before serving—this helps it set and makes slicing easier. Serve it warm, and enjoy every cozy, cheesy bite.
Cabbage Beef Bake
Ingredients
- 1 small cabbage shredded
- 1½ lbs ground beef or turkey
- 1 large onion chopped
- ½ cup red bell pepper chopped
- 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes, undrained
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp pepper
- ¼ tsp sugar
- 1 tsp caraway seeds optional
- 1 8 oz can tomato sauce
- 1 cup reduced-fat sour cream
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese or preferred cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Layer shredded cabbage in the bottom of the dish.
- In a skillet, brown the beef with onion and bell pepper. Drain.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, sugar, and caraway seeds.
- Spoon the beef mixture over the cabbage.
- Mix tomato sauce and sour cream in a bowl, then spread over the beef layer.
- Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Uncover, sprinkle with cheese, and bake an additional 15–20 minutes.
- Let rest 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Twists
- Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the beef mixture for a little heat.
- Add grains: Mix in cooked rice or quinoa for an even heartier version.
- More veggies? Mushrooms or shredded carrots would be great additions.
This Cabbage Beef Bake is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. It’s warm, filling, and tastes even better the next day. Whether you’re cooking for the family or prepping meals for the week, this one’s a real winner.
