Beef and Cabbage Casserole: A Hearty and Delicious Comfort Food

Beef and Cabbage Casserole: A Hearty and Delicious Comfort Food

This beef and cabbage casserole is a satisfying and hearty dish that combines savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and a golden, cheesy topping. Perfect for a family dinner, this casserole is not only delicious but also easy to prepare. Here’s a comprehensive guide to making this delightful comfort food from scratch.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 package (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   • In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and cooked through. Break it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Drain any excess fat and set the beef mixture aside.
3. Prepare the Cabbage:
   • In the same skillet, add the shredded cabbage and cook over medium heat until it is tender and slightly wilted, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix the cooked cabbage with the beef mixture in the skillet.
4. Prepare the Cream Sauce:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the condensed cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until smooth and well combined. Stir this mixture into the beef and cabbage mixture until everything is evenly coated.
5. Assemble the Casserole:
   • Spread the beef and cabbage mixture evenly in the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the mixture.
6. Top with Crescent Roll Dough:
   • Unroll the crescent roll dough and lay it over the top of the casserole. You may need to pinch the seams together to create a solid layer.
7. Bake:
   • Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crescent roll dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve:
   • Allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. Cut into squares and serve warm.

Additional Tips:

• Variations:
  • You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to the beef and cabbage mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
  • For a spicy kick, add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
• Make-Ahead Option:
  • This casserole can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated. When ready to bake, simply add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to account for the cold temperature.
• Storage:
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or the entire casserole in the oven until heated through.
• Freezing:
  • This casserole can also be frozen. Assemble the casserole and cover it tightly with aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to bake, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.

By following this guide, you can create a delicious and hearty beef and cabbage casserole that is sure to be a hit with family and friends. This comforting dish is perfect for any occasion, providing a warm and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.