Budget Ground Beef Cabbage is the perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you need a hearty meal without breaking the bank. This dish combines seasoned ground beef with tender cabbage, rich tomato sauce, and rice, making it a comforting option for families. It’s not only budget-friendly but also incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or preparing meals for the week, this recipe is a true lifesaver.

Why You’ll Love This Budget Ground Beef Cabbage

This recipe is a favorite for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly affordable, making it perfect for budget-conscious families. The budget-friendly ground beef and cabbage meal is easy to prepare, taking only an hour and a half from start to finish. You can also prepare it in advance and store it, which makes it a great choice for meal prep. Additionally, the dish is freezer-friendly, so you can save leftovers for another day. With its delicious flavor and comforting nature, Budget Ground Beef Cabbage truly encapsulates the essence of comfort food.

Ingredients for Budget Ground Beef Cabbage

Gather these items:

1 lb ground beef
1 small green cabbage, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup white rice, uncooked
2 cups beef broth
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1 tbsp olive oil

How to Make Budget Ground Beef Cabbage Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Stir in chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
Step 3: In a baking dish, spread half of the chopped cabbage. Layer the beef mixture on top.
Step 4: Sprinkle uncooked white rice over the beef. Then pour diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth evenly over the top. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Step 5: Top with remaining cabbage. Cover tightly with foil and bake at 350°F for about 75 minutes, until rice is cooked and cabbage is tender. Let it rest before serving.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Budget Ground Beef Cabbage

Keep these in mind:

This casserole is freezer-friendly, so you can make a double batch and save one for later.
Use pantry staples for convenience, making it easy to whip up anytime.
Adjust seasoning to taste, as personal preferences vary among families.
For a twist, consider adding some shredded cheese on top before baking for extra flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Budget Ground Beef Cabbage

Serve this dish alongside a simple salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor. For those who love a little heat, consider adding some hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to your plate.

How to Store and Reheat Budget Ground Beef Cabbage

To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For meal prep, you can portion it out into individual servings. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Budget Ground Beef Cabbage

What’s the secret to perfect Budget Ground Beef Cabbage?

The secret lies in properly seasoning the ground beef and allowing the flavors to meld together during the baking process. This enhances the overall taste of the dish, making it truly satisfying.

Can I make Budget Ground Beef Cabbage ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it the night before and bake it when you’re ready to eat, saving you time on busy weeknights.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Budget Ground Beef Cabbage?

To avoid common mistakes, ensure you don’t overcook the rice in the oven, as it can become mushy. Also, make sure to layer the ingredients correctly to ensure even cooking.

Variations of Budget Ground Beef Cabbage You Can Try

There are several fun variations to this classic dish. You can try adding different vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and flavor. Another option is to substitute the ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter version. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, adding jalapeños or using spicy sausage can elevate the dish.

For more meal prep ideas, check out last recipes or explore creamy potato soup for a comforting side dish. If you’re looking for a sweet treat to accompany your meal, consider gingerbread cookies for dessert.

Budget Ground Beef Cabbage: 7 Comforting Recipes

Author: basmer
Total Time: 90 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Budget-friendly

Print Recipe

Description

This Budget Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole recipe is a comforting, affordable meal layered with seasoned ground beef, cabbage, tomato sauce, and rice. It’s perfect for weeknights, feeds a crowd, and is freezer-friendly.

Instructions

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant.
In a baking dish, spread half of the chopped cabbage. Layer the beef mixture on top.
Sprinkle uncooked white rice over the beef. Then pour diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth evenly over the top. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Top with remaining cabbage. Cover tightly with foil and bake at 350°F for about 75 minutes, until rice is cooked and cabbage is tender. Let it rest before serving.