If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that brings together the savory richness of ground beef and the irresistible pull of cheesy biscuit topping, you’re in the right place. The Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines hearty flavors with a buttery, golden crust reminiscent of that famous cheddar bay biscuit everyone loves. This dish seamlessly blends the wholesome goodness of seasoned ground beef and vegetables with the ooey-gooey delight of cheddar cheese, making it a perfect dinner for family nights or casual gatherings where everyone wants a slice of comfort and joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to achieving that perfect balance of flavors and textures in the Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe. Each component plays an essential role, from the savory beef filling loaded with garden vegetables, to the cheddar cheese-infused biscuit topping that seals everything together in delicious harmony.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides the rich, meaty base that makes this cobbler hearty and satisfying.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant, aromatic punch that enhances the beef.
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables: Offers color, texture, and a boost of nutrients.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Keeps the filling juicy and flavorful without overpowering.
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz), drained: Adds a slight tang and moisture to the mixture.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Introduces a savory umami depth that rounds out the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: For a subtle herbaceous note that complements the beef.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the dish.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the biscuit topping, providing structure and fluffiness.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Helps the biscuit topping rise and become delightfully tender.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: To enhance the biscuit flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder and 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Infuse the topping with a savory layer that ties to the filling.
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed: Creates a flaky, buttery biscuit texture when cut into the flour mixture.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: The star ingredient for that signature cheddar bay twist in the biscuit layer.
- 1/2 cup milk: Gently binds the biscuit dough without making it too heavy.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping): Adds a glossy finish and rich flavor after baking.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder and 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley (for topping): Sprinkled on top for that classic cheddar bay flavor and inviting aroma.
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). In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s nicely browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Breaking it up as it cooks ensures an even texture. Then, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they’re soft and fragrant, around 3 to 4 minutes. This combination forms the flavorful foundation of your cobbler’s heart.
Step 2: Combine Vegetables and Seasonings
Next, stir in the frozen mixed vegetables for a pop of color and texture. Pour in the beef broth, drained diced tomatoes, and Worcestershire sauce to keep things juicy and flavorful. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to season your filling perfectly. Let it simmer for five minutes so all the flavors meld beautifully, and then remove it from the heat to cool slightly while you prepare the biscuit dough.
Step 3: Make the Biscuit Topping
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. These dry ingredients will give your biscuit topping its light, tender crumb with just a hint of savory spice. Use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Then, fold in the shredded cheddar cheese for that unmistakable cheesy goodness. Gradually stir in the milk until a soft dough forms, but be careful not to overmix to keep the biscuits fluffy.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Spread the warm beef and vegetable filling evenly in a 9×9-inch baking dish. Dollop the biscuit dough over the top in generous spoonfuls to create a rustic, inviting look. Transfer the dish to your preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the biscuits turn a gorgeous golden brown, signaling it’s time to bring it out and finish it off.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch
While still warm, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley, then brush this luscious mixture over the biscuits. This final step adds a shine and an extra hit of that classic cheddar bay flavor, making each bite absolutely mouthwatering. Allow the cobbler to cool just slightly before serving so it can set up perfectly.
How to Serve Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onions on top adds a fresh, vibrant touch that complements the dish’s richness. If you love a bit of heat, a light dusting of red pepper flakes can create a subtle kick to awaken the flavors without overwhelming the comforting balance.
Side Dishes
This cobbler stands beautifully on its own as a one-dish wonder, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables brings a refreshing contrast. Creamy coleslaw or a tangy cucumber salad works wonderfully to cut through the richness and add bright, fresh notes to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve individual portions in small ramekins topped with freshly grated cheddar or a dollop of sour cream. You can also accompany the dish with warm garlic bread or offer it family-style in a rustic wooden tray, inviting everyone to dig in and share the warmth this cobbler delivers.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe covered tightly in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keeping it in an airtight container helps preserve the dish’s moisture and flavor so reheated portions taste almost as delightful as fresh.
Freezing
This dish freezes wonderfully. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the cobbler overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the cobbler covered with foil for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through. For crispy biscuits, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking. You can also microwave individual servings but be aware the biscuit topping may lose some crispness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in the biscuit topping?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is classic for this recipe, feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack, pepper jack for a spicy twist, or even a sharp white cheddar to vary the flavor profile. Just keep the cheese quantity the same for the best texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or a hearty mushroom mixture. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and the dish will remain just as comforting and flavorful.
Can I prepare the biscuit dough ahead of time?
You can mix the biscuit dough a few hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. Just bring it back to room temperature before dropping it on top of the filling, as cold dough can affect the baking time and texture.
What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce on hand, a combination of soy sauce and a splash of vinegar can mimic its tangy, umami flavors quite well. Adjust quantities to taste to avoid overpowering the filling.
How can I make the filling less watery?
Drain the diced tomatoes well before adding them to the filling, and simmer the mixture uncovered to help thicken. If the filling still seems too liquidy, stirring in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water can help achieve a thicker, more stew-like consistency.
Final Thoughts
Give yourself a big pat on the back once you try this Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe, because it’s the kind of hearty, cheesy comfort food that feels like a warm hug after a long day. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish never fails to satisfy cravings and bring smiles around the table. So grab your skillet, preheat that oven, and dive into a dish that’s every bit as delightful as it sounds.
Print
Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler is a comforting, savory dish combining a flavorful ground beef and vegetable filling topped with cheesy, garlicky biscuit dough. This hearty casserole offers a perfect blend of tender beef, mixed veggies, and a golden cheddar biscuit crust, making it an ideal meal 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
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Prepare the Beef Filling: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat a splash of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is browned evenly, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Cook Aromatics: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic into the skillet. Cook together for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Mix in the frozen mixed vegetables, beef broth, drained diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld the flavors, then remove the skillet from heat.
- Make the Biscuit Topping: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder. Cut the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers, until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Cheese and Milk: Stir shredded cheddar cheese into the crumb mixture. Gradually add the milk, stirring 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 of the beef mixture, covering as much surface as possible.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the biscuit topping is golden brown and cooked through.
- Finish and Serve: While the cobbler bakes, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley. After removing the cobbler from the oven, brush this mixture generously over the hot biscuit topping. Allow the cobbler to cool slightly before serving to enhance flavors and ensure ease of serving.
Notes
- For a richer biscuit topping, you can substitute half the milk with buttermilk.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to customize the filling.
- Check the seasoning before assembling; adjust salt and pepper to your taste.
- This cobbler pairs well with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain texture.
