There is something irresistibly comforting about a warm, cheesy casserole that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas. This Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe combines hearty seasoned ground beef with tender mixed vegetables and a rich, creamy sauce, all topped with fluffy, golden Cheddar Bay biscuit dough bursting with sharp cheddar cheese. It’s a delightful twist on classic comfort food that brings together layers of flavor and texture in every bite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this dish proves that comfort and convenience can go hand in hand without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the savory ground beef and aromatic seasonings to the cheesy biscuit topping, each component comes together simply yet brilliantly.
- Olive oil: Essential for browning the beef and softening the onions, it adds a subtle fruity undertone.
- Ground beef: The hearty base that packs protein and rich flavor into the filling.
- Small onion (diced): Brings sweetness and depth to the beef mixture as it cooks.
- Garlic (minced): Adds aromatic warmth and that classic savory kick throughout the dish.
- Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that highlight and balance every flavor.
- Worcestershire sauce: Introduces a tangy, umami richness that deepens the meat’s savoriness.
- Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that lightly lifts the casserole with herbal notes.
- Frozen mixed vegetables (thawed): For color, texture, and a pop of wholesome freshness.
- Cream of mushroom soup: The creamy glue that binds the filling with earthy mushroom flavor.
- Sour cream: Adds a luscious tang and creaminess to the filling mixture.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Incorporated in both the filling and biscuit topping for that signature sharp, melty goodness.
- Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix: The star of the topping that delivers fluffy, buttery biscuits infused with cheddar and garlic flavors.
- Cold water: Used to gently bring the biscuit dough together without overworking it.
- Melted butter: Brushed on top for irresistible golden crispness and richness.
- Dried parsley (optional): A sprinkle of green that makes the dish visually inviting.
How to Make Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it into crumbles until it’s beautifully browned. This caramelization is what gives your filling depth and that mouthwatering meaty flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Once the beef is browned, toss in the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant. This step brings sweetness and a touch of pungency that balances the richness of the beef perfectly.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
Sprinkle in salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together so the seasonings coat the mixture evenly. Next, add the thawed mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Let it simmer gently for a few minutes to meld those flavors into a creamy, hearty filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Biscuit Topping
While the filling simmers, pour the beef mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Then, in a separate bowl, mix the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix with cold water and ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese. Stir just until everything comes together—the dough should be soft and cheesy, ready to form fluffy biscuit dollops on top.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough evenly over the beef filling, creating a comforting, cheesy blanket. Bake the cobbler uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for 25 to 30 minutes, until the biscuit topping is golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches
Once out of the oven, brush the biscuit topping with melted butter, and sprinkle dried parsley over the top if you like a fresh pop of color. Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes before serving to allow everything to settle beautifully.
How to Serve Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives brighten the hearty casserole with a fresh, green contrast. A dollop of sour cream on the side adds a cooling tang that complements the rich cheddar and savory beef beautifully. For a little extra cheesiness, sprinkle some freshly grated cheddar on top right after baking.
Side Dishes
This cobbler stands well on its own as a meal, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans adds a refreshing crispness that balances the richness. Roasted root vegetables or lightly sautéed spinach also make excellent companions for a well-rounded dinner plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this cobbler in individual ramekins for personal servings that look charming and elegant. Alternatively, garnish with a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of crunchy fried onions to introduce an exciting mix of textures and flavors that surprise and delight every guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to blend overnight, making for an even tastier meal the next day.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead, this cobbler freezes well. Bake it first, then let it cool completely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. It’s a fantastic make-ahead dish for busy weeks or unexpected guests.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm in a 350°F oven until bubbly and the biscuit topping regains its crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as the biscuit topping loses its delightful texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat in the Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as lighter alternatives. Just adjust the seasoning to your taste since poultry tends to be milder than beef.
Is there a vegetarian version of this cobbler?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for hearty mushrooms or lentils and use a vegetable cream soup to keep it creamy. The biscuit topping stays just as delicious.
Can I make the biscuit topping from scratch instead of using a mix?
Definitely. A homemade cheddar biscuit dough with garlic and cheddar cheese will bring the same comforting flavors and textures, though the mix offers convenience and a reliable result.
What’s the best way to thaw frozen mixed vegetables?
The quickest way is to microwave them briefly or leave them out at room temperature. Just be sure to drain any excess water before adding them to keep your filling from getting watery.
Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients and bake in a larger dish or two separate pans. Just keep an eye on the biscuit topping’s browning time as it might adjust slightly.
Final Thoughts
This Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe is a keeper for anyone who loves cozy, flavorful meals with a little indulgence. It’s perfect for bringing everyone together around the table with minimal fuss and maximum comfort. I truly hope you enjoy making it as much as you enjoy eating it—go ahead and treat yourself to this cheesy, savory delight!
Print
Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler is a comforting and savory American main course featuring a hearty ground beef and vegetable filling topped with cheesy biscuit dough baked to golden perfection. This easy weeknight dinner offers rich flavors with a creamy mushroom and cheddar base, perfect for family meals.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
- 1 (10.5-ounce) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Biscuit Topping
- 1 (11.36-ounce) box Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix (such as Red Lobster brand)
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the cobbler.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil and cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Season & Combine: Season the beef mixture with salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and Italian seasoning. Stir in thawed mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, sour cream, and 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Let simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Pour the beef mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Make Biscuit Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix with cold water and 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Stir gently just until combined to form the biscuit dough.
- Top Beef Mixture: Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough evenly over the beef mixture in the baking dish, covering as much as possible.
- Bake the Cobbler: Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the biscuit topping is golden brown and cooked through.
- Add Finishing Touches: After baking, brush the biscuit topping with melted butter and, if desired, sprinkle with dried parsley for extra flavor and presentation.
- Rest & Serve: Let the cobbler rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and topping to set.
Notes
- You can substitute any biscuit mix for the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Mix—just add shredded cheddar cheese and garlic powder to mimic the flavor.
- For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef.
