Savory Hamburger & Cabbage Bake
This hearty Savory Hamburger & Cabbage Bake is a nostalgic dish that combines sautéed beef with tender cabbage, flavorful onions, and crisp celery. It’s a comforting, one-dish meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to your dinner table. Inspired by my mother’s beloved recipe, this casserole makes for a perfect family dinner when paired with pinto beans and cornbread. Enjoy the rich flavors and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights or serving up to guests.
4-6
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Lean Ground Beef
1 lb (Form into patties)
Large Onion
1 (Sliced)
Water
1 cup
Celery
1 cup (Diced)
Butter
1/4 cup (Cut into pieces)
Salt
to taste
Black Pepper
to taste
Cabbage
1 head (Chopped or shredded)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a large bowl, form the ground beef into individual patties.
3
Layer the patties evenly across the bottom of a casserole dish.
4
In a separate bowl, combine the chopped cabbage, sliced onion, and diced celery. Spread this mixture evenly over the patty layer.
5
Dot the top of the casserole with pieces of butter and season generously with salt and pepper.
6
Pour the water evenly over the entire dish to ensure moisture during cooking.
7
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil to trap in steam while baking.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
9
Once cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Hamburger & Cabbage Bake?
It is a hearty, one-dish casserole that combines ground beef patties with chopped cabbage, onions, and celery for a comforting family meal.
What type of meat is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for one pound of lean ground beef formed into individual patties.
Do I need to brown the hamburger before baking?
No, the instructions specify to form raw ground beef into patties and layer them directly into the bottom of the casserole dish.
How should I prepare the cabbage?
You should use one head of cabbage that has been either chopped or shredded.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking the dish.
How long does this dish take to cook?
The bake time is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the cabbage reaches your desired tenderness.
Why do I need to add water to the casserole?
Adding one cup of water ensures there is enough moisture to steam the cabbage and keep the meat juicy during the baking process.
Should the casserole dish be covered while baking?
Yes, covering the dish with aluminum foil is essential to trap the steam and ensure the cabbage cooks properly.
Can I substitute butter?
While the recipe calls for 1/4 cup of butter for flavor, you could use a butter substitute or margarine if necessary.
What vegetables are included besides cabbage?
The dish includes one sliced large onion and one cup of diced celery for added flavor and texture.
How many people does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed to provide approximately 4 to 6 servings.
What are the best side dishes for this meal?
It is traditionally served with pinto beans and cornbread for a complete, nostalgic dinner.
Is this recipe considered a low-carb meal?
Yes, because it primarily consists of meat and vegetables without added grains or starches, it is naturally low in carbohydrates.
What is the origin of this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by a beloved family recipe passed down from the creator's mother.
How should I season the hamburger and cabbage bake?
The recipe suggests seasoning generously with salt and black pepper to taste.
Can I add other spices to this dish?
While the original recipe keeps it simple with salt and pepper, you can add garlic powder or onion powder for extra depth.
Do I need to grease the casserole dish?
The recipe does not explicitly require greasing, as the fat from the beef and the added butter usually prevent significant sticking.
What if my cabbage is still crunchy after an hour?
If the cabbage is not tender enough, replace the foil and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or ground chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze this cabbage bake?
Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Is this recipe budget-friendly?
Yes, using simple ingredients like cabbage, onions, and ground beef makes this an affordable meal option.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or high for 3 to 4 hours.
What type of onion works best?
A yellow or white onion is recommended for its savory flavor that sweetens during baking.
Can I add cheese to this recipe?
Adding shredded cheddar cheese on top during the last 5 minutes of baking is a popular variation.
Should the meat be cooked before adding the cabbage?
No, the meat and cabbage are layered raw and cooked together in the oven.
How small should I dice the celery?
Dicing the celery into small pieces ensures it cooks through and distributes evenly throughout the dish.
Can I use red cabbage?
You can, though red cabbage will change the color of the dish and may require a slightly longer cooking time.
What size casserole dish is recommended?
A 9x13 inch baking dish or a large 3-quart casserole dish is usually sufficient.
How long should the dish rest after baking?
Letting the dish rest for a few minutes allows the juices to settle and the flavors to fully meld before serving.