Southern Style Cabbage Beef has always been a dish that brings my family to the table, no matter how busy our week gets. I remember my grandmother pulling this incredible casserole out of the oven, the scent of savory beef and tender cabbage filling the entire house. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, especially on a cool evening. This Southern cabbage and beef combination is so forgiving and easy to whip up, making it my go-to for a stress-free dinner. Seriously, this Easy Southern cabbage beef recipe is a lifesaver! Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Southern Style Cabbage Beef
This dish is a true winner for so many reasons:
- It offers an incredible, savory taste that’s pure comfort food.
- Prep time is a breeze, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- It’s a complete meal packed with protein and vegetables.
- This budget-friendly recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that the whole family will adore.
- As a Southern cabbage beef casserole, it’s hearty and satisfying.
- You get that classic homestyle flavor that reminds you of grandma’s cooking.
- This Southern cabbage beef casserole is incredibly versatile for meal prep.
Ingredients for Southern Style Cabbage Beef
Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious Ground beef and cabbage Southern style dish. It’s truly heartwarming how humble ingredients transform into such a flavorful meal!
- 1 pound ground beef – I prefer 80/20 for the best flavor and moisture.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – about 1 cup, this adds a lovely sweetness and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – essential for that classic savory aroma.
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped – about 6 cups; this is the star of our Southern cabbage beef skillet.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained – they bring a nice tanginess and liquid to the mix.
- 1 cup beef broth – adds richness and helps everything meld together beautifully.
- 1 tsp salt – to enhance all the flavors.
- ½ tsp black pepper – for a little kick.
- 1 tsp paprika – gives it that signature warm hue and subtle smoky taste.
- ½ tsp dried thyme – adds an earthy, herbaceous note.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese – for that irresistible cheesy topping!
How to Make Southern Style Cabbage Beef
- Step 1: First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grab a large skillet – this is where the magic of our Southern cabbage beef skillet really begins.
- Step 2: Toss your 1 pound ground beef into the heated skillet. Cook it over medium heat, breaking it up with your spoon, until it’s nicely browned and no pink remains. Drain off any excess fat; we want flavor, not greasiness!
- Step 3: Now, add your 1 medium onion, chopped, and the 2 cloves garlic, minced, right into the skillet with the beef. Stir them around and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion starts to look soft and translucent. You’ll start smelling that amazing savory aroma!
- Step 4: It’s time for the star of our Southern cabbage beef skillet: the 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped. Stir it into the skillet along with the 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained, and 1 cup beef broth.
- Step 5: Season everything generously with 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp black pepper, 1 tsp paprika, and ½ tsp dried thyme. Give it all a good stir to make sure all those beautiful flavors are well combined. This is what makes it a true Southern cabbage beef skillet dish.
- Step 6: Carefully transfer this glorious mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. It should fill it nicely, ready for its oven transformation.
- Step 7: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Pop it into your preheated oven and let it bake for 45 minutes. This allows the cabbage to soften and the flavors to meld into that classic Southern cabbage beef goodness.
- Step 8: After 45 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle the 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, for another 10–15 minutes, or until the cheese is gloriously melted and bubbly.
- Step 9: Once it’s out of the oven, let this comforting Southern cabbage beef casserole rest for a few minutes. This helps it set up just right, making it easier to serve and enjoy that perfect blend of tender cabbage, savory beef, and melted cheese.
Pro Tips for the Best Southern Style Cabbage Beef
Want to elevate your Southern cabbage beef skillet game? Here are a few tricks I’ve picked up that make a world of difference:
- Don’t overcook the cabbage; you want it tender but with a slight bite, not mushy.
- Use good quality beef broth for a richer flavor base.
- For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce.
- Letting the casserole rest before serving is key for the flavors to meld and the cheese to set.
What’s the secret to perfect Southern cabbage beef?
The secret to truly authentic Southern cabbage beef lies in the balance of flavors and textures. Sautéing the onions and garlic first builds a savory foundation, while the diced tomatoes and beef broth create a rich, moist base for the tender cabbage. Don’t rush these steps!
Can I make Southern Style Cabbage Beef ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the entire casserole, minus the cheese topping, up to 24 hours in advance. Cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, remove the foil, add the cheese, and increase the baking time by about 10-15 minutes to ensure it’s heated through.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Southern Style Cabbage Beef?
A common pitfall is overcooking the cabbage, which can make the dish watery. Also, ensure your ground beef is properly drained to avoid a greasy casserole. Finally, don’t skip the resting period after baking; it makes serving much easier and the flavors more cohesive.
Best Ways to Serve Southern Style Cabbage Beef
This comforting casserole is a complete meal on its own, but it truly shines when paired with some classic Southern sides. It’s the ultimate Southern comfort food cabbage beef experience!
- I love serving this dish with a side of fluffy cheesy scalloped potatoes to soak up any extra savory juices.
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
- For an extra hearty meal, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chives right before serving.
Nutrition Facts for Southern Style Cabbage Beef
Here’s a look at the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving for this delicious Southern cabbage and beef dish:
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 750mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used in your Southern cabbage beef recipe. For more information on healthy eating, you can check out resources on healthy eating guidelines.
How to Store and Reheat Southern Style Cabbage Beef
Properly storing and reheating this delightful Southern cabbage and beef dish ensures you can enjoy its comforting flavors all week long. Once it’s out of the oven, let the casserole cool down for about 20-30 minutes before covering it. This prevents excess condensation. For refrigeration, store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, this dish freezes beautifully, much like a hearty Southern cabbage beef stew. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil, and you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to reheat, you have a couple of great options. For portions from the fridge, you can gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave them until heated through. If reheating from frozen, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator first for the most even heating. Alternatively, you can reheat a frozen portion directly in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until hot, which might take around 20-30 minutes. Enjoy your delicious Southern cabbage beef again!
Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Style Cabbage Beef
What makes this Southern Style Cabbage Beef so comforting?
It’s the combination of tender, slow-cooked cabbage melting into savory ground beef, all baked with a bubbly cheese topping. This dish is pure Southern comfort food cabbage beef at its finest, evoking warmth and nostalgia with every bite. It’s a hearty meal that truly satisfies.
Can I substitute the ground beef in this Southern cabbage beef recipe?
Absolutely! Many people enjoy making this dish with ground turkey or even Italian sausage for a different flavor profile. Some even opt for shredded chicken. It’s a versatile base for creating your own version of this classic Southern cabbage beef skillet. You might also enjoy exploring beef and cheese chimichangas for another hearty beef dish.
Is this a traditional Southern cabbage beef dish?
Yes, this recipe embodies the spirit of traditional Southern cabbage beef cooking. It uses simple, wholesome ingredients combined in a way that highlights the natural flavors of the cabbage and beef, often found in homestyle Southern kitchens. It’s a true taste of Southern heritage.
What are some good side dishes to serve with Southern Style Cabbage Beef?
This dish pairs wonderfully with classic Southern sides. Think creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy cornbread, a crisp green salad, or even some buttered biscuits. These accompaniments help round out the meal and complement the savory notes of the Southern cabbage and beef. For a sweet treat, consider trying our homemade ice cream recipe.
Variations of Southern Style Cabbage Beef You Can Try
This classic dish is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ways to switch up your Southern cabbage beef skillet for a new twist:
- For a Lighter Version: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You can also reduce the amount of cheese on top or use a reduced-fat cheddar. It still results in a wonderfully tasty and hearty Southern cabbage beef meal.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the beef and cabbage mixture in Step 4. A diced jalapeño sautéed with the onions also works wonders for a spicy Southern cabbage and beef.
- Slow Cooker Method: For an even easier approach, brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first. Then, combine all ingredients (except the cheese) in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Top with cheese during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the beef and add an extra cup of your favorite beans (like kidney or black beans) or some crumbled firm tofu. This transforms it into a delicious meatless meal that’s still packed with flavor. You might also enjoy our power bowl bliss for another veggie-packed option.
Southern Style Cabbage Beef: Easy & Tasty
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty Southern classic featuring tender cabbage, savory beef, and a cheesy topping. This comforting casserole is full of flavor and perfect for a weeknight dinner or potluck. It’s warm, filling, and made with simple pantry ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes (with juices), beef broth, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove foil, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, and return to oven for 10–15 more minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- This dish makes great leftovers and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- You can swap ground beef with ground turkey or sausage for a fun twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350 kcal