Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Savory Beef and Cabbage Bake?
It is a hearty casserole made with ground beef, fresh cabbage, and tomato soup, layered and baked to create a comforting family meal.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes approximately 4 to 6 servings.
What are the main ingredients required?
The main ingredients are one medium head of cabbage, one pound of lean ground beef, one onion, and a 10.75-ounce can of tomato soup.
How long does it take to bake in the oven?
The dish takes 30 minutes to bake in a preheated oven.
Can I prepare this in a slow cooker?
Yes, it can be cooked in a crock pot on low for 6 to 8 hours.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
Do I need to brown the beef before baking?
Yes, you should brown the ground beef with the chopped onion and drain the excess fat before layering the casserole.
Why should I blanch the cabbage?
Blanching the cabbage for 3 minutes helps soften it so it reaches the perfect texture during the baking process.
How do I blanch the cabbage?
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the chopped cabbage for 3 minutes, then drain it.
What size casserole dish is recommended?
A 2-quart casserole dish is the ideal size for this recipe.
Should I dilute the tomato soup?
No, pour the tomato soup over the layers undiluted to maintain the rich flavor and consistency.
How should I layer the ingredients?
Start with half the beef and onion mixture, add half the cabbage, repeat the beef layer, and finish with the remaining cabbage before adding the soup.
Can I use a different meat besides ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork for the lean ground beef.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
This depends on the brand of tomato soup used; please check the label for gluten-containing thickeners.
How many calories are in a serving?
There are approximately 250 calories per serving.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains about 15g of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in this dish?
This recipe contains 10g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein is in one serving?
There is approximately 15g of protein per serving.
Can I add cheese to this bake?
Yes, topping the casserole with shredded cheddar or mozzarella during the last 10 minutes of baking is a delicious addition.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze the Savory Beef and Cabbage Bake?
Yes, it can be frozen in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Is this a low-carb friendly recipe?
With 10g of carbs per serving, it is relatively low-carb, though tomato soup may contain added sugars.
What side dishes pair well with this?
It goes well with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad.
Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, red cabbage can be used, though it will change the color of the dish and may have a slightly different texture.
Should I cover the dish while it bakes?
The instructions recommend covering it with foil if using an oven, then baking for 30 minutes.
Can I add other vegetables to the beef mixture?
Yes, bell peppers or diced carrots are great additions to sauté with the beef and onions.
What if I do not have tomato soup?
You can substitute with tomato sauce mixed with a pinch of sugar and a splash of cream or milk.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the mild flavors and familiar ingredients typically make this a hit with children.
Can I assemble this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the layers in advance and keep it refrigerated until you are ready to bake it.
How do I reheat the casserole?
Reheat portions in the microwave or place the dish in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.