Chipotle Ground Beef & Cabbage Casserole

Name: Chipotle Ground Beef & Cabbage Casserole
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 teaspoons olive oil; 500 g (1 lb) extra-lean ground beef; 1 brown onion, diced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; ½ head green cabbage, roughly chopped (about 750 g); 1 can diced tomatoes; ½ cup uncooked long-grain white rice; 3 tablespoons chipotle in adobo sauce; 1 teaspoon salt

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This one-pot chipotle ground beef and cabbage casserole is quick, flavourful, and made with minimal ingredients. It’s hearty, nourishing, and loaded with that smoky chipotle kick that keeps you coming back for more.

Casserole in a bowl with melted cheese and bread on the side.

Looking for a versatile meal you can prep once and enjoy all week? This chipotle ground beef and cabbage casserole is easy to throw together with minimal ingredients and endless ways to serve it! It’s smoky, hearty, and nourishing — packed with that bold chipotle flavor that makes it so addictive.

I love that it uses plenty of cabbage for a good hit of veggies, canned tomatoes for richness, and rice to make it hearty and filling, all tied together with smoky chipotle and a few simple spices. It’s the kind of dish you can make ahead and enjoy so many different ways throughout the week. We love it straight from the pan with melted grated cheese and a thick slice of toast, or topped with sour cream, cheese, and avocado for a nacho-style twist. Leftovers also make amazing quesadillas or tacos!

Ground beef and cabbage casserole in a pot.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this ground beef and cabbage casserole, you only need a handful of simple ingredients:

Ground Beef: Extra-lean (90%) is my go-to so I don’t have to drain excess fat, but 80% lean works too.
Cabbage: Regular green cabbage is best for this recipe — it softens nicely and adds great texture.
Onion: A yellow or brown onion for sweetness and depth.
Tomatoes: I use canned diced tomatoes, but canned plum tomatoes, passata, or about 6 chopped fresh tomatoes also work.
Chipotle: I use ¼ cup chipotle in adobo sauce for a smoky kick. For a milder heat, swap in regular chipotle sauce.
Seasonings: A simple blend of cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper for warmth and depth.

Complete list of ingredients and amounts is located on the recipe card below.

How to Make Chipotle Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole

Cook the beef: Heat a little oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the ground beef and cook for 3–4 minutes, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.

Add aromatics and spices: Stir in the onion, cumin and garlic powder until fragrant.

Combine the rest of the ingredients: Add the cabbage, canned tomatoes, rice, and chipotle in adobo sauce. Pour in water and stir well to combine everything.

Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover with a lid and cook on low for 35–40 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the rice is cooked. Stir every 10 minutes or so to prevent sticking.

Cabbage, rice and tomatoes added to the pot.

Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately in bowls with cheese, avocado, bread, or tortilla chips.

Recipe Variations and Tips

Add More Veggies: Mix in button mushrooms, frozen corn, peas, or diced carrot for extra flavor, color, and texture.
Swap the Protein: Ground pork, turkey, or any other ground meat works perfectly in place of beef.
Save Time: Use pre-chopped vegetables, sweet potatoes, or frozen mixed veggies to cut down on prep time.

Ground beef casserole in a bowl with bread on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Nachos: Layer tortilla chips with the cabbage-beef mixture, top with cheese, melt, then finish with sour cream and avocado.
As-Is: Scoop into bowls and top with avocado, guacamole, sour cream, and fresh herbs.
Quesadillas: Use as a filling for quick, cheesy quesadillas.
Tacos or Burritos: Perfect in tacos or burritos with cilantro, avocado, and pickled red onions.
With Veggies: Serve alongside roasted green beans, carrots, cauliflower, or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.

How to Store

Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for 4–5 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
Freezer: Once cooled, transfer to a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use a different protein instead of ground beef?

Yes! Try ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based mince for a vegetarian-friendly option.

What can I use instead of rice?

You can substitute with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or simply leave it out for a lower-carb version.

What can I use in place of chipotle in adobo sauce?

You can use smoked paprika, chili powder, or a few dashes of hot sauce to mimic the smoky, spicy flavour.

Side shot of casserole in a bowl with melted cheese and bread on the side.

More One-Pot Meals

One Pot Cajun Chicken Orzo (Risoni)

Chili Without Tomatoes

Maple Chicken + Veggies

One Pot Black Bean Curry

If you try this chipotle ground beef and cabbage casserole recipe or have a question, please let me know! Leave a comment and rate it below. I love to hear what you think, or any changes you make.