Are you ready to transform an ordinary weeknight dinner into a mouth-watering culinary experience? This Cabbage Casserole with Mince Beef and Fresh Herbs is not just another recipe – it's a flavor-packed journey that combines the rustic charm of hearty ingredients with the sophistication of fresh herbs. Imagine a dish that's both comforting and exciting, bringing together tender cabbage, savory beef, and a burst of herbal freshness that will have your family asking for seconds before they've finished their first serving!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 head of cabbage, chopped
- 500g minced beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup fresh herbs (parsley, thyme, etc.)
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that your casserole cooks evenly throughout.
- Begin by preparing the cabbage. Remove any damaged outer leaves from the head of cabbage, then chop it into bite-sized pieces. Rinse the chopped cabbage under cold water and set it aside to drain.
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Next, add the minced beef to the skillet. Cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Once the beef is browned, stir in the can of diced tomatoes, including their juices. Mix well and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped cabbage, the beef and tomato mixture, and the fresh herbs. Stir everything together until the cabbage is well coated with the beef mixture.
- Transfer the cabbage mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
- If you are using cheese, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the casserole for a delicious, melty finish.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cabbage from browning too quickly, and place it in the preheated oven.
- Bake the casserole for 30 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Once cooked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle.
- Serve the cabbage casserole warm, garnished with additional fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Tips
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: The key to an outstanding casserole is using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Select a crisp, firm cabbage and use freshly chopped herbs for maximum flavor.
- Don't Overcook the Cabbage: The goal is tender, not mushy cabbage. Be careful not to overcook, as this can make the dish watery and lose its texture.
- Cheese Options: While the recipe suggests optional cheese, try experimenting with different varieties like sharp cheddar, gruyère, or a blend of cheeses for added depth.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to play with your herb mix. Rosemary, oregano, or basil can add unique flavor profiles to the dish.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This casserole can be prepared in advance and refrigerated before baking. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this casserole with a light salad or crusty bread to complete the meal. It's also great for meal prep and tastes even better the next day!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 85mg
