If you’re looking for a cozy dinner that stretches your budget without sacrificing comfort or flavor, this Budget Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole is your new weeknight go-to. It’s warm, filling, and made with humble ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Each bite is a blend of seasoned beef, tender cabbage, and rice, layered in a tomato-kissed sauce that bakes into something far more comforting than you’d expect.

This is the kind of meal that makes you feel like home. It comes together in a single casserole dish and makes enough to feed a family or give you leftovers for days. It’s freezer-friendly, highly customizable, and best of all? It’s absolutely delicious. If you’re working with a tight grocery budget but still want something hearty, this recipe delivers.

Why You’ll Love This Budget Ground Beef And Cabbage Casserole

This casserole isn’t just frugal, it’s practical. You can prep it in advance and pop it into the oven on busy nights. It’s an excellent meal prep option for anyone juggling a tight schedule. Plus, the ingredients are basic but satisfying: nothing fancy, yet every forkful hits the spot.

You’ll love how well it reheats and how versatile it can be. Swap rice for quinoa, use ground turkey instead of beef, or toss in some leftover veggies. It’s a crowd-pleaser without trying too hard.

Do I Need a Specific Kind of Cabbage?

Not at all. Green cabbage is your best bet because it’s budget-friendly and holds up well in the oven. But Napa cabbage or even savoy can work if that’s what you’ve got. Just be aware that softer cabbage types will cook quicker and release more moisture, so adjust your bake time or liquid accordingly.

Ingredients for the Budget Ground Beef And Cabbage Casserole

This recipe is all about simple ingredients coming together to make magic. Each one plays a specific role in making this dish hearty and flavorful.

Ground beef
Green cabbage
White or brown rice
Canned diced tomatoes
Tomato sauce
Yellow onion
Garlic
Salt
Black pepper
Paprika
Dried oregano
Olive oil
Shredded cheese (optional)

How To Make the Budget Ground Beef And Cabbage Casserole

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until soft. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, garlic, paprika, and oregano.

Step 2: Par-Cook the Cabbage

While the beef is cooking, chop the cabbage and give it a quick steam or sauté in a separate pan until just tender. This helps it cook evenly in the oven without becoming mushy.

Step 3: Assemble the Layers

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, beef mixture, cabbage, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir everything together until well mixed. If using cheese, fold half into the mixture.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 casserole dish. Top with remaining cheese if desired. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 35 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is slightly crispy and bubbling.

How to Serve and Store This Casserole

This hearty casserole can feed about 6 people generously. It’s perfect straight from the oven, but even better the next day. Serve it with a slice of buttered bread or a light green salad if you’re aiming for balance.

To store, let it cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It also freezes beautifully – portion into meal-prep containers and reheat whenever you need a warm and easy dinner.

What to Serve With Budget Ground Beef And Cabbage Casserole?

Garlic Bread

Warm, buttery garlic bread is always a good idea to scoop up the saucy bits.

Roasted Carrots

A slightly sweet veggie side pairs beautifully with the savory casserole.

Pickled Beets

For something tangy and vibrant, pickled beets add a nice contrast.

Coleslaw

Keep the cabbage theme going with a crunchy slaw for texture variety.

Simple Garden Salad

Fresh greens tossed with lemon vinaigrette bring brightness to the meal.

Applesauce

A touch of sweetness alongside a savory bake can be surprisingly perfect.

Baked Potatoes

If you want to stretch the meal further, baked potatoes do the trick.

Cornbread Muffins

Sweet and crumbly, they’re a Southern-style match for any casserole night.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you loved this Budget Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole, check out these other cozy favorites:

Low-Carb Chicken Casserole if you want something keto-friendly without sacrificing comfort.
Amish Sunday Savior Casserole for a layered, old-fashioned meal.
Fiery Chicken Ramen with Creamy Garlic Sauce if you’re craving something with spice and sauce.
Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta for a creamy, indulgent twist.
Crockpot Loaded Steak and Potato Bake for a no-fuss, comforting family dinner.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s ready when you need an easy budget-friendly casserole.

Tell me how yours turned out! Did you switch up the protein or sneak in extra veggies? I’d love to know your twist.

Explore more everyday dinners and comfort foods over on Luna Meals on Pinterest. There’s something new to discover every day!

Conclusion

This Budget Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole proves that simple ingredients can create deeply satisfying meals. Whether you’re cooking for a busy family, prepping meals ahead, or just want something warm and comforting without spending much, this dish delivers. It’s frugal food at its best – filling, flavorful, and made with love.

Budget Ground Beef And Cabbage Casserole

Why You’ll Love This Budget Ground Beef And Cabbage Casserole

Do I Need a Specific Kind of Cabbage?

Ingredients for the Budget Ground Beef And Cabbage Casserole