Cheesy Beef & Cabbage Skillet Casserole

Have you ever wished for a deliciously satisfying meal that brings the best of comfort food together in one pan? Look no further than the Cheesy Beef & Cabbage Skillet Casserole. This delightful dish marries the irresistible flavors of lasagna and cabbage rolls into a single, easy-to-make meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines hearty ground beef with tender cabbage, all simmered in juicy tomatoes. The result is a flavor that’s reminiscent of cabbage rolls without the fuss, while a generous layer of bubbly, melted cheese gives it that lasagna-like allure. It’s a low-carb wonder that’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large oven-proof skillet (a cast iron skillet is ideal)
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Oven

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, grated
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (or more, to taste)
• Sea salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the diced onions and cook until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the ground beef and cook until it’s no longer pink.
6. Add the sliced cabbage, diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, oregano, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Sauté until the cabbage is wilted, around 10 minutes.
7. Top the mixture with the grated mozzarella cheese.
8. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Ensure the cabbage is thinly sliced so it cooks evenly and quickly.
• Adjust seasoning to your preference; feel free to add more oregano or pepper if desired.

Additional Tips and Variations

For a bit of spice, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes along with the oregano. If you’re not watching carbs, serve this casserole over a bed of rice or pasta for a heartier meal.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Calories: Approximately 350
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fat: 25g
Fiber: 4g

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use another type of cheese? Absolutely! Cheddar or a cheese blend would also work well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the beef and cabbage mixture in advance. Just add the cheese and bake when you’re ready to serve.

Is there a vegetarian version? Substitute the ground beef with a meat alternative or additional vegetables like mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.

Conclusion

We hope you’re as excited to try this Cheesy Beef & Cabbage Skillet Casserole as we are to share it with you! It’s a comforting, delicious meal that’s sure to please any crowd. Once you’ve tried it, we’d love to hear about your experience and any personal touches you added. Enjoy!