Pin It This satisfying bake brings together all the classic flavors of a burger in a hearty casserole form. Seasoned ground beef is layered between crispy roasted cabbage rounds, then topped with a creamy egg mixture and plenty of melted cheddar cheese. The dish roasts until golden and bubbly, creating a comforting meal that's perfect for feeding a crowd.
The cabbage develops wonderful crispy edges in the oven, while the beef mixture gets its signature taste from ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. It's an excellent option for those seeking gluten-free comfort food without sacrificing flavor.
I stumbled across cabbage rounds roasting in my oven by accident one night when I needed a quick side dish. The edges curled up crispy and golden, smelling faintly sweet and nutty, and I immediately thought this texture deserved more attention than just being a vegetable afterthought.
My sister was over that evening, skeptical about cabbage in what looked like a lasagna. She went back for seconds and asked for the recipe before shed even finished her plate, which is basically the highest compliment anyone can pay a Tuesday night dinner.
Ingredients
- Green cabbage: Slicing it into thick rounds instead of shreds gives you these satisfying layers that hold up beautifully
- Ground beef: The 80/20 blend provides enough fat to keep everything rich and flavorful
- Cheddar cheese: Use sharp cheddar for that bold punch that cuts through the mild cabbage
- Eggs and milk: This custard binds the layers together while keeping the casserole from drying out
- Burger condiments: The ketchup, mustard, and Worcestershire create that familiar flavor profile everyone loves
Instructions
- Roast the cabbage first:
- Brush those thick rounds with olive oil and get them into a hot oven until theyre golden and starting to crisp at the edges.
- Cook the beef mixture:
- Brown the meat with onions and garlic, then stir in all those condiments and spices until it smells like your favorite burger joint.
- Layer it all up:
- Start with cabbage, add the beef, then more cabbage, pour over the egg mixture, and blanket everything in cheese.
- Bake until bubbly:
- Let it bake until the cheese transforms into that gorgeous golden brown blanket and the whole thing is set.
Pin It This became my go-to when friends have had rough weeks and need something that feels like a hug. Theres something about comfort food that actually has vegetables in it that makes everyone feel better about eating seconds.
Make It Your Own
Sometimes I swap in ground turkey or add bacon bits to the beef layer for extra smokiness. The beauty is how well it adapts to whatever needs using up in your fridge.
Serving Suggestions
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. Roasted potatoes on the side make it even more of a complete meal, though honestly it stands alone just fine.
Leftover Magic
This somehow tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to mingle. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the whole dish and warm it at 350°F until heated through.
- Scoop leftovers into burger buns for the ultimate lazy lunch
- Crush a handful of potato chips on top before reheating for extra crunch
- Fry leftover portions in a skillet until crispy on both sides
Pin It This is the kind of recipe that makes people excited about cabbage, and I consider that a personal victory.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I make this cabbage burger bake ahead of time?
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Yes, you can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Add about 5-10 minutes to the baking time if baking from cold.
- → What other cheeses work well in this bake?
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Sharp cheddar provides the best burger-like flavor, but you can also use mozzarella for a milder taste, Monterey Jack for extra meltiness, or a blend of your favorite cheeses.
- → Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
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Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken work well, though they'll be leaner so you may want to add a bit more olive oil or cheese to maintain richness.
- → How do I store leftovers?
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Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions.
- → Can I freeze this cabbage burger bake?
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Yes, you can freeze the assembled unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. Already-baked portions can also be frozen for reheating later.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
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A fresh green salad with tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. Roasted potatoes, pickled vegetables, or even a side of fries work wonderfully too.
