Oh, let me tell you, I am absolutely thrilled to share one of my favorite comfort food recipes: the Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler! This dish brings together the incredible flavors of ground beef with the warmth of a good cobbler topped with cheesy, herby biscuits. It’s like a cozy hug on a plate! I remember the first time I made it for my family; they couldn’t stop raving about it. I even caught my brother trying to sneak back for seconds—he thought I wouldn’t notice!
What makes this recipe even more special is its versatility. You can whip it up for a quick weeknight dinner or impress your friends at a gathering. Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that can satisfy everyone? And let’s be honest, the combination of cheddar and herbs makes everything better!
What’s in Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler?
Let’s dive into all the tasty ingredients that make this dish a masterpiece!
Ground Beef: The star of the show! I love using lean ground beef for a healthier option, but feel free to use regular for extra flavor. It brings that hearty satisfaction into each bite.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics are a must. Sautéing them creates a wonderful base full of flavor that will make your kitchen smell heavenly.
Mixed Vegetables: Adding veggies not only boosts the nutrition but also gives the dish beautiful color and texture. I usually go for frozen mixed veggies for convenience, but fresh is always a winner!
Cheddar Cheese: Oh, the cheese! Extra sharp cheddar cheese adds that ooey-gooey goodness we all crave. It melts into the cobbler beautifully, making it irresistibly delicious.
Chicken Broth: This adds depth and richness to the sauce. I veer towards low-sodium options for better control over salt levels.
Biscuit Mix: This will be the topping for our cobbler. I recommend a good quality biscuit mix to save time and ensure fluffiness.
Buttermilk: This is key for that rich, tangy flavor in the biscuits. If you’re out of buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute with milk and lemon juice!
Seasonings: A little bit of Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning brings everything together. I love adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
Is Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Good for You?
Now, let’s talk about the health aspect of this cozy cobbler.
Ground Beef: Packed with protein, it’s a filling option that can keep you satisfied. Just keep an eye on your portions, especially if you’re using higher fat blends.
Vegetables: The mixed veggies bring hidden vitamins, fiber, and minerals. They add a nutritional bonus without you even noticing!
Cheddar Cheese: While cheese adds its fair share of calories, it’s also a source of calcium and protein. Moderation is key, of course—your waistline will thank you later!
Just be aware that this dish is on the richer side, so consider pairing it with a fresh green salad to balance things out.
Ingredients List
– 1 lb ground beef (lean or regular)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
– 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium)
– 2 cups biscuit mix
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat
*Serves: 6 hearty portions*
How to Make Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler?
Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to pull this delightful dish together:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until it’s fully cooked. Drain off any excess grease.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the mixed vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes, letting all those flavors meld together.
5. Transfer the beef mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top.
6. In a bowl, combine the biscuit mix and buttermilk to form a dough. It should be thick but spreadable.
7. Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit mixture on top of the beef and cheese layer. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect—it’s all going to be delicious!
8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
9. Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the cheesy, beefy goodness!
Cheesy Tips for Serving
Here are some of my favorite tips to elevate your Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler:
– You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
– Feel free to toss in any veggies you have on hand—bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms work wonders.
– Serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for an aesthetic touch!
– What’s even better? It makes for fantastic leftovers! Just pop it in the microwave, and you’re set.
I hope you give this Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler a try. Trust me, once you experience that first cheesy bite, you’ll understand why this recipe has a special place in my kitchen. Let me know how your cobbler turns out—I can’t wait to hear your stories and maybe even catch a glimpse of your creations! Happy cooking!
