Ah, the sweet scent of home cooking—it just warms the soul, doesn’t it? Let me tell you about one of my absolute favorites: **Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler**. There’s something about this dish that takes me back to cozy evenings spent in the kitchen after a long day. Imagine the feeling of sinking your fork into hearty ground beef and savory vegetables, all tucked under a delightful golden-brown biscuit topping. It’s grandma-approved, comfort food at its best!
This recipe is extra special to me because it’s like a warm hug on a plate. My friends and family have dubbed it “the ultimate hug food.” I remember the first time I made it for a potluck—people were practically licking their plates! It’s easy to whip up on a busy weeknight or to impress guests on a special occasion. Trust me; you’ll want to keep this one in your cooking repertoire!
## What’s in Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler?
Let’s dive into what makes this dish not only comforting but also delicious!
Ground Beef: The star of the show! I usually opt for lean ground beef, but you can use whatever you have on hand. It brings all the flavors together beautifully.
Onion and Garlic: These two are a classic duo, adding depth and aroma to the filling. I always use a small onion and fresh garlic for that extra zing.
Frozen Mixed Vegetables: A time-saver! I like the combo of peas, carrots, and corn—they add color and a nutritious punch. Fresh veggies would work well if you have them, too.
Worcestershire Sauce: Just a teaspoon adds umami depth—don’t skip this one! It’s a secret weapon in many savory dishes.
Spices (Salt, Pepper, Paprika): Simple, yet effective. They help elevate the flavor of the filling.
Beef Broth: This adds moisture and richness to the filling. Homemade or store-bought works great!
Cheddar Biscuit Mix: The star of the topping! I usually grab some Bisquick because we all need a little help sometimes, right?
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: This adds a beautiful cheesy richness to the biscuit topping. Extra cheese also means extra smiles!
Milk and Butter: These two make the biscuit topping super fluffy and decadent. You can’t go wrong!
Fresh Thyme or Parsley: Optional but highly recommended for garnish; it adds a pop of color and freshness to the finish.
## Is Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about the health aspects of this delicious cobbler. While it’s undeniably comfort food, there are some perks and considerations to keep in mind.
Ground Beef: A great source of protein, iron, and essential vitamins. Just be mindful of the fat content—try to choose lean ground beef to keep things lighter.
Vegetables: Those frozen mixed veggies bring fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the table. They make it easier to sneak in those daily servings of veggies!
Cheddar Cheese: While it does add a cheesy goodness, it’s also high in saturated fats. A little goes a long way in terms of flavor.
Biscuit Mix: This can be a quick solution for a busy day, but it may contain preservatives. You could always try making your own biscuit dough if you’re feeling adventurous!
Overall, it’s all about balance. Enjoying this comforting cobbler as an occasional treat in a well-rounded diet is definitely what’s up!
## Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup cheddar biscuit mix (such as Bisquick)
– 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish (optional)
This delightful recipe serves around 6 hungry souls.
## How to Make Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler?
Alright, let’s roll up those sleeves and get cooking! Here’s how to whip up this hearty meal:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial for that golden biscuit topping!
2. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once it’s nice and browned, drain any excess fat. Then, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes nice and translucent.
3. Stir in the frozen mixed vegetables along with Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook this colorful mixture for another 3-5 minutes until everything is nice and tender.
4. Add the beef broth and bring the whole mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened before removing it from the heat.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the cheddar biscuit mix, shredded cheddar cheese, milk, and melted butter. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix, or the biscuits might not rise as beautifully!
6. Pour the beef mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Now, spoon the biscuit mixture over the beef filling and spread it out evenly.
7. Bake it in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the biscuit topping is golden brown and cooked through.
8. Once out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh thyme or parsley. Enjoy the comfort!
## A Little Extra Love for Your Cobbler
Here are some fun ways to mix this dish up! Experiment with different cheeses—pepper jack adds a nice kick. Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or even plant-based meat if that’s more your style. You can also load up on extra veggies like bell peppers or zucchini—whatever you have lying around.
This Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler holds a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait for you to experience its delightful flavors too. So, gather your ingredients, put on an apron, and let your kitchen fill with savory aroma! I’d love to hear how it turns out for you—happy cooking!
