Tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's both comforting and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further than this delicious Corned Beef Cabbage Casserole! This recipe takes the beloved flavors of corned beef and cabbage and transforms them into a wonderfully satisfying and easy-to-assemble dish perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend supper. It’s a fantastic example of delicious dishes born from simple ingredients and straightforward cooking techniques.
Ingredients:
This recipe provides a great balance of flavors and textures, ensuring a truly satisfying meal. You'll need:
- 2 lbs cooked corned beef, thinly sliced
- 1 large head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
This recipe offers a stress-free cooking experience. Here's a step-by-step guide:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish. This simple step ensures easy cleanup and even baking.
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Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, sauté the onion and carrots in a little butter or oil until softened. This adds depth of flavor to the casserole.
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Layer the ingredients: In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the sliced cabbage, followed by half of the corned beef, then the sautéed vegetables. Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage and corned beef.
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Prepare the sauce: In a bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered ingredients in the baking dish.
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Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil, sprinkle with cheddar cheese and parsley, and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the cabbage is tender.
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Rest and serve: Let the casserole rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and makes for easier slicing.
Tips for the Best Corned Beef Cabbage Casserole:
- For extra flavor, use leftover corned beef cooking liquid in place of some of the beef broth.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, turnips, or parsnips for a heartier casserole.
- If you don't have cream of mushroom soup, you can easily make your own creamy sauce using butter, flour, and broth.
- Don't overcook the cabbage; it should be tender but still retain some texture.
Variations:
This recipe is incredibly versatile! Experiment with these variations:
- Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a kick.
- Cheesy: Use a blend of cheeses instead of just cheddar, such as Monterey Jack or Gruyère.
- Hearty: Add cooked potatoes or other root vegetables to the layers for added substance.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 25-30g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This Corned Beef Cabbage Casserole is a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful recipe, and don't hesitate to share your culinary creations with us! It’s a healthy meal, a quick dinner idea, and a fantastic addition to your collection of homemade cooking recipes. It's truly one of the best recipes out there for those seeking comforting, flavorful food.