Name: The Best Ground Beef Casserole with Cabbage for Weeknight Meals
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce; 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown); 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)

Description

This ground beef and cabbage casserole is the ultimate weeknight dinner—simple, comforting, and full of flavor. Layered with seasoned beef, wilted cabbage, tomatoes, and cheese, it’s a one-dish meal that’s hearty, customizable, and perfect for feeding the whole family. Whether you’re eating low-carb, meal prepping, or just need something easy and satisfying, this casserole checks every box.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 slices turkey bacon, cooked and crumbled (optional)

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish.
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add diced onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Stir in chopped cabbage and cook until it begins to wilt, about 5–7 minutes.
Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Mix in the cooked rice and cook for another 2–3 minutes to blend flavors.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly.
Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese over the top. Add crumbled turkey bacon if using.
Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Make it low-carb: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice and use full-fat cheese.
Vegetarian option: Use lentils or plant-based crumbles in place of meat.
Spice it up: Add chili flakes or jalapeños.
Freezer-friendly: Assemble and freeze unbaked or freeze leftovers after baking.
Extra cheesy? Mix cheese into the casserole, not just on top.

Serving tip: Great with sour cream or fresh parsley on top.