Title: Savory Cabbage Beef Bake – A Hearty and Flavorful Comfort Dish

1. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish.

2. Cook the beef:
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.

3. Add seasonings and tomatoes:
   Stir in the paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. If you’re using diced tomatoes, add them to the skillet along with the beef. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to combine. If the mixture seems dry, add a little beef broth or water to moisten it.

4. Prepare the cabbage:
   While the beef mixture is simmering, prepare the cabbage. In a separate large bowl, mix the chopped cabbage with the beef broth or water. This will help soften the cabbage as it bakes.

5. Assemble the bake:
   In the prepared baking dish, layer the cabbage mixture evenly on the bottom. Spoon the beef mixture over the cabbage, spreading it out evenly. If you’d like, sprinkle shredded cheese on top for added richness and flavor.

6. Bake:
   Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together. If you added cheese, remove the foil during the last 10 minutes to allow the cheese to melt and turn golden brown.

7. Serve:
   Once the bake is ready, remove it from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Serving and Storage Tips:

• Serve warm: This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, with the cabbage and beef flavors at their peak.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Variants:

1. Add veggies: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the beef mixture for added nutrition.
2. Spicy version: Add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for a spicy kick.
3. Low-carb option: Skip the cheese or use a low-fat cheese to make it even lighter.

FAQ:

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or pork would work well as alternatives to ground beef in this recipe. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.

2. Can I make this in advance?
Yes, this dish can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it with foil and bake when ready.

3. Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.