Save This satisfying casserole transforms classic burger flavors into an easy, family-friendly bake. Golden rounds of roasted cabbage provide a crispy base and topping for seasoned ground beef, all bound together with a creamy egg mixture and topped with melted cheddar cheese. The combination of textures—crispy cabbage edges, tender beef, and bubbly cheese—creates a comforting dish that comes together in just one hour of active cooking time.
The smell of roasting cabbage always takes me back to my first apartment, where I discovered that the humble vegetable could transform into something golden and spectacular in the oven. I stumbled upon this cabbage bake idea during a week when I was craving burger flavors but wanted something lighter and less messy than patties on the stove. Now it has become one of those meals I make when I want comfort food without the heaviness.
I served this at a casual dinner gathering last fall, and my friend who swore she hated cabbage actually went back for seconds. There is something magical that happens when the beef mixture seeps into the cabbage layers while they bake together with that egg custard binding everything into pure comfort.
Ingredients
- 1 medium green cabbage: Slicing it into thick rounds creates those beautiful steak-like pieces that roast up beautifully
- 1.5 lbs ground beef: The 80/20 blend gives you enough fat to keep the beef mixture flavorful and juicy
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar cuts through the richness and adds that perfect tangy finish
- 1 medium yellow onion: Finely chopped so it melts into the beef mixture and adds sweetness
- 2 cloves garlic: Minced fresh garlic beats powdered every time for that aromatic base
- 2 large eggs and 1/2 cup whole milk: This custard mixture binds the layers together as it bakes
- 3 tbsp ketchup: Provides that familiar burger sweetness and tang
- 1 tbsp yellow mustard: Just enough to give the beef mixture classic burger flavor
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: The secret ingredient that adds depth and a subtle smoky note
Instructions
- Get the cabbage roasting first:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment. Brush those cabbage rounds with olive oil and season them generously before roasting for 20 to 25 minutes until golden edges appear.
- Build the beef mixture:
- While cabbage roasts, cook your onion and garlic in olive oil until softened, then add the ground beef and break it up as it browns. Stir in all those condiments and spices and let it simmer for just 2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Assemble the layers:
- Whisk together your eggs and milk in a bowl. Layer half the roasted cabbage in your baking dish, spread all that seasoned beef on top, then finish with the remaining cabbage and pour the egg mixture evenly over everything.
- Bake until bubbly:
- Scatter the cheddar across the top and bake at 375°F for 15 to 20 minutes until the cheese melts and the casserole is set. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving so the layers settle.
Save This recipe has saved me on countless busy weeknights when I want something hearty but do not have the energy for an elaborate meal. My family actually requests this more than traditional burgers now, which I consider a major win in the dinner department.
Making It Your Own
Sometimes I swap in ground turkey or chicken if I want something lighter, and the result is still satisfying. The egg and milk mixture is what makes this a proper casserole instead of just layered ingredients, so do not skip that step even if it seems extra.
Serving Suggestions
A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts right through the richness. I have also served this alongside roasted potatoes when I want to go full comfort food mode.
Getting Ahead
You can roast the cabbage and cook the beef mixture up to a day ahead, then just assemble and bake when you are ready. This makes it perfect for meal prep or when you have guests coming over.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully in the microwave or covered in the oven
- The flavors actually meld together even better after a night in the refrigerator
- Freeze individual portions for those nights when cooking feels impossible
Save There is something deeply satisfying about taking simple ingredients and turning them into a meal that feels like a warm hug. I hope this becomes one of those recipes you turn to again and again.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
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Yes, assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- → What type of cabbage works best?
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Green cabbage holds its shape well during roasting and provides the best crispy texture. Red cabbage can be used but may bleed color into the dish.
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
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Ground turkey works as a leaner alternative. You may want to add a tablespoon of olive oil to compensate for the reduced fat content.
- → How do I store leftovers?
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Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain crispy edges.
- → Can I freeze this casserole?
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Yes, freeze before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking as directed, or bake from frozen adding 20-30 minutes to cooking time.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
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A fresh green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness. Roasted potatoes or steamed green beans also complement the hearty flavors nicely.
