Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe
There is something irresistibly comforting about a warm, hearty casserole that combines savory ground beef with a cheesy, buttery biscuit topping. The Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe brings together the rich flavors of seasoned ground beef and tender vegetables, all snugly topped with fluffy cheddar biscuits reminiscent of your favorite Cheddar Bay Biscuits. This dish is a perfect family meal that oozes warmth and satisfaction in every bite, making it a quick go-to whenever you want cozy and delicious food on the table with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Each one plays a key role, from packing the filling with flavor to creating the golden, cheesy biscuit topping that makes this dish unforgettable.
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef: The savory and juicy base that gives the casserole its hearty soul.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the beef filling.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and a touch of zing.
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.): Adds color, texture, and nutritional balance.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Enhances richness and keeps the filling moist.
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained: Provides tanginess and brightens the flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Infuses a savory, umami boost.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Herbal notes that complement the beef perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste): Adds subtle heat and depth.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The structure for the biscuit topping.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Gives the biscuits lightness and rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the biscuit flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder: For a subtle savory punch in the biscuits.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a mild sweetness to the topping.
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed: Creates tender, flaky biscuit layers.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the biscuits, delivering cheesy goodness.
- 1/2 cup milk: Binds the biscuit dough to the perfect consistency.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping): Brushed on top for shiny, flavorful biscuits.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for topping): Adds a final hit of savory flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (for topping): A fresh, herbal finish to brighten the dish.
How to Make Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Then, heat a little oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the ground beef until it’s beautifully caramelized, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step builds the deep, meaty flavor foundation for the cobbler.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic to the browned beef. Cook them together for around 3 to 4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. This infuses the filling with layers of fragrant sweetness and garlicky warmth.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Seasonings
Next, toss in the frozen mixed vegetables, beef broth, diced tomatoes (make sure to drain them well), Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer gently for about 5 minutes to let the flavors marry and create a luscious filling.
Step 4: Make the Biscuit Topping
While the filling simmers, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder in a large bowl. Cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs—this ensures your biscuits are tender and flaky.
Step 5: Incorporate Cheese and Milk
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese to add cheesy bursts inside the biscuit dough. Gradually pour in the milk and mix gently until the dough just comes together. Take care not to overwork it, so the topping stays light and fluffy.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Spoon the savory beef mixture evenly into a 9-by-9-inch baking dish. Then drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough across the top, creating a rustic, uneven covering. Pop it into the oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until the biscuits turn a gorgeous golden brown.
Step 7: Finish with Garlic Butter
Combine the melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley, then brush this mixture over the hot biscuits as soon as they come out of the oven. This step gives your cobbler a gleaming, flavorful final touch that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
How to Serve Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives make an excellent garnish to add a bright splash of color and a fresh taste that contrasts beautifully with the cheesy, rich topping. A dollop of sour cream on the side can also add creamy coolness.
Side Dishes
This cobbler shines as a complete meal but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in vinaigrette to cut through its richness. Simple steamed vegetables or roasted Brussels sprouts also complement the hearty flavors without overwhelming the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets. This not only looks charming but also ensures everyone gets their own golden biscuit topping and hot beef filling. You can also sprinkle extra cheese on top before baking if you like things cheesier.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe, let the leftovers cool to room temperature before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick re-meals.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish either before baking or after cooling cooked leftovers. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil or place in a freezer-safe container. Frozen cobbler will keep well up to 2 months, making it a convenient freezer meal for busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw the frozen cobbler overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the biscuit topping is restored to crisp and warm—about 15 to 20 minutes. Microwaving works in a pinch but can soften the biscuits.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this cobbler. You might want to add a bit more seasoning or a splash of broth to keep the filling moist.
What’s the best way to make sure the biscuit topping cooks evenly?
Dropping the biscuit dough in even spoonfuls and baking on the middle rack of your oven helps the topping cook through consistently. Avoid overcrowding the dough pieces for even browning.
Can I add different vegetables to the filling?
Yes, the recipe is very flexible. Feel free to use fresh veggies like zucchini or bell peppers, or other frozen varieties to suit your taste and pantry supply.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
As written, this cobbler uses all-purpose flour, so it’s not gluten-free. You could experiment with gluten-free flour blends designed for baking, but results may vary slightly.
How can I make the biscuit topping extra cheesy?
Try folding in an extra half cup of shredded cheddar or sprinkling some grated cheese on top before baking. This creates a nice crispy, cheesy crust that intensifies the cheddar flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s straightforward to prepare but full of comforting, layered flavors that appeal to the whole family. Whether it’s weeknight dinner or a weekend cozy meal, this recipe deserves a spot in your regular rotation. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved classic in your kitchen.
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Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler is a hearty and comforting dish featuring a savory ground beef and vegetable filling topped with cheesy, garlicky biscuit dough. This easy-to-make meal brings the flavors of classic cheddar bay biscuits into a homestyle casserole that’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Beef Filling
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Biscuit Topping
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup milk
Topping Finish
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for topping)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Filling: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a skillet over medium heat, heat a drizzle of oil, then add the ground beef and cook it until browned, about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up as it cooks for an even texture.
- Cook Aromatics: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 3-4 minutes until they become softened and fragrant.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Mix in the frozen mixed vegetables, beef broth, drained diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for 5 minutes to combine flavors, then remove the skillet from heat.
- Make the Biscuit Topping: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cut in the cold cubed butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Cheese and Milk: Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until evenly combined, then gradually pour in the milk, mixing gently until a soft dough forms.
- Assemble the Cobbler: Spread the prepared beef filling evenly in a 9×9-inch baking dish. Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough over the top, distributing it as evenly as possible.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuit topping is golden brown and cooked through.
- Finish and Serve: While baking, mix melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley. As soon as the cobbler is out of the oven, brush this seasoned butter over the biscuit topping for extra flavor. Let the dish cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can use homemade beef broth instead of store-bought.
- Feel free to substitute mixed vegetables with your favorites like green beans or mushrooms.
- Ensure the butter for the biscuit topping is very cold to get a flaky texture.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a slight kick in the beef filling if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
