The Story Behind the Dish
This beef and cabbage casserole is a testament to home cooking at its finest – simple, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying. Rooted in traditional comfort food, this recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners.
Ingredients List
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
- Sweet Onion: 1 large (about 200g)
- Ground Beef: 1 lb (450g)
- Salt: 1 tsp (6g)
- Black Pepper: 1/2 tsp (1g)
- Garlic Powder: 1/2 tsp (2g)
- Carrot: 1 medium (about 100g)
- Cabbage: 1/2 small head (about 350g)
- Eggs: 2 large
- Sour Cream: 5 tablespoons (75g)
- Mayonnaise: 1 tablespoon (15g)
- All-Purpose Flour: 7 tablespoons (60g)
- Baking Powder: 1 tsp (5g)
- Sugar: 1 tsp (4g)
- Butter or Vegetable Oil (for greasing): 1 tablespoon (15g)
- Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Dice the sweet onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
- Cook the Beef Add ground beef to the skillet. Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink.
- Add Vegetables Grate the carrot and finely chop the cabbage. Add to the beef mixture. Cover and cook on low heat for 6-7 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Prepare the Batter In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, sour cream, and mayonnaise. Gradually add flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Mix until smooth.
- Assemble the Casserole Preheat the oven to 360°F (180°C). Grease a casserole dish with butter or vegetable oil.
- Layer and Bake Pour half the batter into the dish. Add the cabbage-beef mixture evenly. Top with the remaining batter.
- Bake to Perfection Bake for 35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
Prep Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 35 minutes Total Time: 55 minutes Servings: 6
Pro Cooking Tips
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat
- Ensure vegetables are finely chopped for even cooking
- Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes after baking for easier serving
- Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated before baking
Variations and Substitutions
- Protein Alternatives:
- Ground turkey or chicken
- Plant-based ground meat
- Lamb or pork
- Vegetarian Option:
- Replace beef with lentils or mushrooms
- Use vegetable broth instead of meat
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I freeze this casserole? Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in refrigerator before reheating.
Q2: What can I serve with this dish? A light salad or crusty bread complements this casserole perfectly.
Q3: How do I know when it’s fully cooked? The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick should come out clean.
Q4: Can I make this gluten-free? Use gluten-free flour and ensure baking powder is gluten-free.
Q5: How long will leftovers keep? Refrigerate for 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigerate in covered dish for 3-4 days
- Reheat in oven at 325°F for best texture
- Can be assembled earlier in the day and baked later
Enjoy your delicious Beef and Cabbage Casserole – a true comfort food classic!