If you are craving a hearty, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining rich, savory ground beef cooked with aromatic herbs, tender mixed vegetables, and a luscious, cheesy topping inspired by those irresistible Cheddar Bay biscuits, this cobbler satisfies in every bite. It’s easy to prepare yet packed with flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Whether you’re feeding a family or impressing guests with something homey and delicious, this dish is pure comfort food magic.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, and each one plays an important role in creating that bold flavor and cozy texture you expect from a Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe. From the savory seasonings to the cheesy biscuit topping, every component makes this dish sing.
- Ground beef: The star protein for a rich, hearty base that keeps everyone satisfied.
- Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with garlic.
- Garlic cloves: Infuse a subtle pungency that elevates the beef mixture.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and balance flavors.
- Smoked paprika: Brings a warm, smoky richness to the filling.
- Dried thyme: A touch of earthiness to complement the beef.
- Tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor to boost umami.
- Beef broth: Adds moisture and deep savory notes.
- Frozen mixed vegetables: Carrots, peas, and corn for color, texture, and subtle sweetness.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Incorporated inside the filling and on top—cheesy goodness all around!
- Cheddar Bay biscuit mix: The secret to that iconic biscuit topping loaded with buttery, cheesy delight.
- Unsalted butter: Melted and brushed on top to create a golden crust.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant finish for garnish.
How to Make Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Sauté Aromatics
Start by heating your skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until it’s fully browned, breaking it apart as it cooks to ensure even texture. Then add the diced yellow onion and minced garlic; sauté them together for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onions become soft and fragrant. This step builds the base of flavor that makes the cobbler truly delicious.
Step 2: Season and Simmer the Filling
Stir in the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and tomato paste, cooking everything together for another minute. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. The broth helps meld the flavors and keeps the filling juicy, while the tomato paste adds a savory intensity.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Cheese
Mix in the frozen mixed vegetables, allowing them to heat through for 2 to 3 minutes. Then remove the skillet from the heat and fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This melting cheese adds a luscious, gooey texture that makes every bite indulgent and comforting.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish and Cheddar Bay Biscuits
Transfer the beef and vegetable mixture into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Meanwhile, prepare the Cheddar Bay biscuit mix according to the package instructions, usually combining it with water and extra shredded cheese for that classic cheddar flavor. Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough evenly over the beef mixture to form a rustic cobbler topping.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Brush the biscuit tops generously with melted butter to encourage a beautiful golden crust, then bake the cobbler in a 400°F oven for 20 to 25 minutes or until the biscuits are cooked through and browned on top.
Step 6: Add Final Cheese Layer and Garnish
Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of cheddar cheese over the baked biscuits and return the dish to the oven for 2 to 3 minutes to melt the cheese to a gooey finish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, then serve warm and enjoy the comforting goodness of this Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe.
How to Serve Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten and freshen this rich dish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley just before serving. It not only adds a pop of color but also a subtle herbal note that balances the cheesy, savory flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This cobbler pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through richness, or steamed green beans for a simple, fresh vegetable side. Mashed potatoes are optional if you want even more comfort on your plate, but the cobbler itself is hearty enough to stand strong as a meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe straight from the baking dish or portion it into individual ramekins for a charming, personalized presentation. For a fun twist, try layering the ingredients in a cast-iron skillet and serving directly at the table to keep the warmth and rustic vibe intact.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover cobbler tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen after resting overnight, making leftovers just as tasty—if not more so—than the fresh-baked dish.
Freezing
This cobbler can be frozen before baking. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to ensure the biscuit topping is fully cooked and golden.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven covered with foil to prevent drying out, for about 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through. For a crispier biscuit top, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of reheating. Microwave reheating is possible but may soften the biscuit crust.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat in this cobbler?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute can work well to keep the dish flavorful but accommodate different dietary preferences.
What if I can’t find Cheddar Bay biscuit mix?
No worries. You can substitute with any cheddar biscuit or drop biscuit mix, or try making homemade cheddar biscuits for a fresh take on the topping.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by using a gluten-free biscuit mix and ensuring all other ingredients are gluten-free, you can easily adapt the recipe without sacrificing flavor.
Can I add more vegetables?
Of course! Feel free to include mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and variety—just adjust cooking times to ensure all veggies are tender.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños when cooking the beef to add heat without overwhelming the comforting flavors of the cobbler.
Final Thoughts
Trying this Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe is like inviting a warm, cheesy hug into your kitchen that will please everyone at your table. It’s straightforward to prepare, delightfully flavorful, and wonderfully satisfying—perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Give it a go and watch how quickly it becomes a new favorite in your recipe rotation!
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Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler combines savory ground beef cooked with aromatic spices and mixed vegetables, topped with a golden Cheddar Bay biscuit crust and melted cheddar cheese. It’s a comforting, hearty casserole perfect for a family dinner or cozy gathering.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Biscuit Topping
- 1 package Cheddar Bay biscuit mix (plus ingredients called for on the box, usually water and shredded cheese)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for topping)
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to heat while you prepare the beef mixture and biscuit topping.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it’s browned and fully cooked, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks for even texture.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
- Season the Mixture: Stir in salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and tomato paste. Cook for another minute to combine the flavors well.
- Simmer with Broth and Vegetables: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add frozen mixed vegetables and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they are heated through.
- Add Cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to melt into the beef mixture.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Transfer the beef mixture evenly into a greased 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Make Biscuit Topping: In a separate bowl, prepare the Cheddar Bay biscuit mix according to the package instructions, usually combining the mix with water and additional shredded cheese.
- Top the Beef Mixture: Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit batter evenly over the beef mixture, covering the surface.
- Apply Butter: Brush the biscuit tops with melted unsalted butter to help them brown beautifully during baking.
- Bake the Cobbler: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the biscuit topping is golden brown and cooked through.
- Add Extra Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the baked biscuit topping and return the dish to the oven for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the cobbler for a fresh touch. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler.
Notes
- You can substitute the packaged biscuit mix with homemade biscuit dough or drop biscuits for a personalized touch.
- For extra richness, mix in a tablespoon of sour cream or cream cheese into the beef mixture before baking.
