Spiced Cabbage & Beef Casserole with a Kick of Chili

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## **👩‍🍳 Instructions**

### **1️⃣ Prepare the Ground Beef**
1. Heat **olive oil** in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.
2. Add the **onion** and sauté for **3-4 minutes**, until softened and fragrant.
3. Add the **garlic** and sauté for another **30 seconds**.
4. Add the **ground beef** to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about **7-8 minutes**. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

### **2️⃣ Cook the Cabbage**
1. While the beef is cooking, heat a separate large pan over medium heat and add the chopped **cabbage**.
2. Sauté the cabbage for about **5-7 minutes** until it starts to soften and becomes slightly translucent. You want the cabbage to be tender but still have some texture.

### **3️⃣ Combine the Ingredients**
1. Once the beef is cooked, add the sautéed **cabbage** to the beef mixture.
2. Stir in the **diced tomatoes**, **tomato sauce**, and **beef broth**.
3. Sprinkle in the **chili powder**, **cumin**, **paprika**, **oregano**, **cayenne pepper**, **salt**, and **black pepper**. Stir everything together, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed.
4. Allow the mixture to simmer for about **10 minutes**, so the flavors meld and the liquid reduces slightly.

### **4️⃣ Assemble the Casserole**
1. Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**.
2. Transfer the beef and cabbage mixture into a **greased 9×13-inch casserole dish**.
3. Sprinkle the **shredded cheese** evenly over the top of the casserole.
4. Bake in the oven for **15-20 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the casserole is heated through.

### **5️⃣ Serve and Garnish**
1. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
2. Garnish with **fresh cilantro** or **green onions** for a touch of freshness and color (optional).
3. Serve hot and enjoy the bold, spicy flavors!

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## **🍽 Tips & Variations**

✔ **Add More Vegetables:** For extra nutrition and color, add some chopped **bell peppers**, **zucchini**, or **spinach** to the beef and cabbage mixture.
✔ **Make it Spicy or Mild:** Adjust the **cayenne pepper** and **chili powder** to your spice preference. You can even add **jalapeños** or **serrano peppers** for an extra kick.
✔ **Cheese Choices:** Feel free to use **cheddar**, **monterey jack**, or even a **Mexican blend cheese** for a different flavor profile.
✔ **Top with Sour Cream:** A dollop of **sour cream** or **Greek yogurt** on top can add a nice creamy contrast to the spiciness of the casserole.
✔ **Meal Prep Friendly:** This casserole stores well in the fridge for up to **4 days**, and it reheats beautifully. You can also freeze it for up to **3 months**. Just bake it and let it cool completely before freezing.

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### **✨ Final Thoughts**

**Spiced Cabbage & Beef Casserole with a Kick of Chili** is the ultimate comfort food that brings together hearty ingredients and bold flavors in one delicious dish. The combination of ground beef, cabbage, and zesty spices offers a satisfying and savory meal, while the chili kick adds the perfect amount of heat. Whether you enjoy it on a chilly evening or serve it for a family gathering, this casserole is guaranteed to please.

💬 **Tried this recipe? Let us know how it turned out!** 🌶️🍲

Looking for more spicy, comforting casserole ideas or other creative ways to use cabbage? Feel free to reach out—I’d love to share more!