Layer seasoned beef over fresh cabbage with just four more simple ingredients in a glass casserole dish for an easy weeknight dinner that never disappoints in my house.
This Oven-Baked 6-Ingredient Beef and Cabbage Casserole is a simple, low-carb twist on classic stuffed cabbage rolls, delivering a filling and flavorful meal with minimal prep. Layers of fresh shredded cabbage cook beneath seasoned ground beef and a rich tomato-beef mixture, allowing everything to bake together in one dish. As it cooks, the cabbage softens and absorbs the savory juices, creating a tender base, while a layer of melted cheddar on top brings everything together into a warm, comforting casserole.
Oven-Baked 6-Ingredient Beef and Cabbage Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 small head green cabbage (about 1½–2 lbs), thinly sliced
- 1 lb ground beef (80–90% lean)
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- ½ cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Layer
Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13-inch glass baking dish. Remove the core from the cabbage, slice it thinly, and spread it evenly across the bottom.
Tip: It may seem like a lot of cabbage, but it will shrink significantly as it cooks.
Step 2: Add the Beef
In a bowl, mix the ground beef with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Scatter the beef over the cabbage in small pieces rather than one solid layer.
Tip: Spreading it out helps it cook evenly and allows the juices to soak into the cabbage.
Step 3: Pour the Sauce
Combine the tomato sauce and beef broth, then pour evenly over the entire dish. Cover tightly with foil.
Step 4: Bake Covered
Bake for 35 minutes. This step softens the cabbage and cooks the beef while keeping everything moist.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded cheddar on top, and return to the oven uncovered for 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tip: For a lightly browned top, broil for the last 1–2 minutes.
Step 6: Let It Rest
Allow the casserole to rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
Tip: This helps the flavors settle and prevents excess liquid when serving.
