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Cheesy Cabbage and Beef Bake

A savory and comforting baked dish featuring tender green cabbage, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce topped with melted sharp cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 head green cabbage cored and chopped into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 lb ground beef 80% lean
  • 1 large yellow onion finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 14.5 oz diced tomatoes undrained
  • 8 oz tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • 8 oz sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large pot
  • Large skillet

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. Blanch the chopped cabbage in boiling salted water for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender; drain well.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and brown the ground beef until no longer pink.
  4. Add onion and cook until translucent, then stir in the garlic for 30 seconds.
  5. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and red pepper flakes; simmer for 5-7 minutes.
  6. Fold the blanched cabbage into the sauce mixture.
  7. Transfer the mixture to the baking dish and top with cheddar and Parmesan cheese.
  8. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
  9. Rest for 5 minutes, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Blanching the cabbage first ensures even cooking and reduces bitterness.