When your pantry’s a little bare and you’re aiming to stretch your dollars without sacrificing flavor, this Budget Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole comes to the rescue. It’s a hearty, old-school comfort food meal that’s easy to throw together, surprisingly filling, and just the right kind of cozy for a weeknight dinner. Think of it as the frugal cousin to lasagna — layers of savory ground beef, tender cabbage, tomato sauce, and rice baked to perfection.

This casserole brings all the warmth of a home-cooked meal, but without the complicated prep or expensive ingredients. It’s ideal for meal prepping too, as the leftovers reheat beautifully and the flavors get even better the next day. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or stocking your freezer, this is one casserole you’ll want in your back pocket.

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

It’s inexpensive and satisfying. You can make the whole thing using ingredients you likely already have, and even swap in what’s on hand. It’s gluten-free, naturally dairy-free unless you want to add cheese, and the kind of meal that truly warms you from the inside out. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that welcomes leftovers — dare we say, it tastes better the next day!

Can I Use Purple Cabbage Instead of Green?

You can, but be ready for a color shift. Purple cabbage tends to bleed its color during cooking, which might result in a bluish tint — totally edible, just different visually. Green cabbage softens more readily and keeps the texture classic, but if purple is all you’ve got, go ahead and use it. Just add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to help retain the color and brighten the flavor.

Ingredients for the Budget Ground Beef And Cabbage Casserole

The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity. Each ingredient serves a real purpose — flavor, texture, or binding the dish together. No fluff here, just ingredients that work hard.

Ground Beef
The heart of the casserole. Opt for leaner cuts to reduce grease, or go with 80/20 for more flavor.
Green Cabbage
This is what bulks up the dish. Cabbage becomes tender and sweet as it cooks, pairing perfectly with the savory beef.
Cooked Rice
A budget stretcher and texture balancer. White or brown rice both work great, just make sure it’s cooked ahead of time.
Onion
Adds depth and that irresistible savory base note we all love.
Garlic
A few cloves make a big difference — aromatic and flavorful.
Tomato Sauce
Brings moisture and a tangy richness that ties the whole dish together.
Salt & Pepper
Simple seasoning is key. Add more to taste as you go.
Olive Oil
For sautéing the onions and garlic to release all that good flavor.
Optional: Shredded Cheese
For a cheesy top layer, go with mozzarella or cheddar — or skip it to keep things lighter.

Budget Ground Beef And Cabbage Casserole (1)

How To Make the Budget Ground Beef And Cabbage Casserole

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary, then season with salt and pepper.

Step 3: Soften the Cabbage

While the beef cooks, chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Add it to the skillet once the beef is done and stir it around until slightly wilted, about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Mix in Rice and Sauce

Stir in the cooked rice and pour in the tomato sauce. Mix everything thoroughly so the flavors can blend. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F. In a greased 9×13 casserole dish, spoon in the beef and cabbage mixture evenly. Top with cheese if using. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until bubbling and lightly browned on top.

How to Serve and Store Budget Ground Beef And Cabbage Casserole

This dish is generous and serves about 6 hungry people. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, but also pairs well with a fresh side. To store, let the casserole cool completely and then refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 4 days. It also freezes well — portion it out, freeze, and reheat for an easy future dinner.

To reheat, pop a serving in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or warm it in the oven at 350°F until hot all the way through.

What to Serve With This Casserole?

A Simple Garden Salad

Crisp greens, tomatoes, cucumbers and a light vinaigrette balance the richness of the casserole.

Buttered Corn on the Cob

A classic pairing that adds a sweet crunch.

Crusty Garlic Bread

You’ll want something to scoop up all the saucy bits left behind.

Roasted Carrots or Root Veggies

Their natural sweetness plays beautifully off the savory casserole.

Pickled Beets or Onions

A little acidity can brighten up the plate and cut through the warmth.

Applesauce

Old-fashioned, yes, but surprisingly tasty alongside the cabbage.

Coleslaw

Doubling down on cabbage with a cold, tangy contrast works wonders.

Want More Casserole Ideas?

If you love this Budget Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole, you’ll probably enjoy these other hearty, satisfying dishes:

• Try the Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a pasta twist on ground beef dinners.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is a 30-minute dream.
• Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce takes comfort food to a new level.
• Don’t miss the Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for a cheesy, silky plate of bliss.
• Or get cozy with this One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta loaded with flavor.

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add cheese on top? Use brown rice instead? I love hearing your ideas — this recipe is made for your own personal twist.

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