If you have a soft spot for comforting, hearty casseroles with a cheesy twist, you are going to adore this Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe. Imagine rich, savory ground beef mingling with creamy cheddar and mushroom soups, all nestled beneath a golden, fluffy Cheddar Bay biscuit crust that’s bursting with cheesy goodness. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser that feels like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for cozy dinners or feeding a lively family gathering. This dish brings together layers of flavor and texture that will have you coming back for seconds and sharing the recipe with everyone you know.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make the Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe is refreshingly simple because it relies on straightforward, familiar ingredients that each play a star role. From the savory ground beef and onions to the creamy soups and sharp cheddar cheese, every component is essential for the rich flavor and wonderful texture that make this dish shine.
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef: Provides a hearty and flavorful base while keeping it lean to balance richness.
- 1 yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when caramelized with the beef.
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic: Injects aromatic warmth and a touch of zest.
- 10.5 oz can condensed cheddar cheese soup: Infuses creamy, cheesy richness throughout the filling.
- 10.5 oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup: Offers earthy undertones and a silky texture.
- ½ cup milk: Helps combine the soups into a smooth, velvety sauce.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the savory flavors without overpowering them.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided: One cup for melting into the filling, one cup sprinkled on top for extra cheesiness.
- 1 box Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix: The secret to that soft, fluffy, and cheesy biscuit topping we all crave.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for biscuit mix): Makes the biscuit topping irresistibly cheesy.
- 2 cups milk (for biscuit mix): Binds the biscuit dough just right.
- ¼ cup butter, melted: The finishing touch for brushing the biscuit top, keeping it moist and flavorful.
- Seasoning packet from biscuit mix: Adds that classic Cheddar Bay Biscuit flavor.
- Fresh chopped parsley: A pop of color and fresh herbaceous note as a garnish.
How to Make Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Your Beef and Onions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (177°C). While it warms up, take a large skillet and brown your lean ground beef with diced yellow onions over medium-high heat. The onions should soften and become fragrant, mingling perfectly with the beef. Once browned, drain any excess grease to keep your dish from becoming too heavy.
Step 2: Build Your Flavorful Filling
Once your beef and onions are ready, stir in chopped garlic, condensed cheddar cheese soup, cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper. This combination forms a creamy, luxurious filling base that’s bursting with savory layers. Cook, stirring gently, until everything is well combined and heated through. Then remove from heat and fold in one cup of shredded cheddar cheese, adding that irresistible melty cheddar punch.
Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the beef mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly so every bite will be balanced. Sprinkle the second cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top of the filling for an extra cheesy layer that will melt beautifully during baking.
Step 4: Mix the Biscuit Topping
In a medium bowl, combine the biscuit mix—remember to skip the seasoning packet for now—with one cup of shredded cheddar cheese and two cups of milk. Stir until smooth and fully incorporated. This batter will form that soft, golden, cheesy crust that makes this cobbler so memorable.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the biscuit topping gently over the beef and cheese layer in your baking dish, spreading it evenly to cover the filling completely. Pop it into your preheated oven and let it bake for 50 to 55 minutes until the topping turns a gorgeous golden brown.
Step 6: Add the Classic Cheddar Bay Biscuit Butter
While the cobbler is baking, melt the butter and mix it with the seasoning packet from your biscuit mix. This buttery, garlicky blend is what gives those Cheddar Bay Biscuits their iconic flavor and will make your cobbler topping divine.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
Once your cobbler is out of the oven, brush the biscuit layer generously with the melted butter and seasoning mixture. Let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to set and the dish to cool slightly. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and a fresh herbal note before serving.
How to Serve Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of color and brightness, balancing the richness of the dish. For an extra touch, consider adding a few thin slices of green onion or a light dusting of smoked paprika to enhance the presentation and flavor.
Side Dishes
This hearty cobbler pairs wonderfully with simple, fresh sides like a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette or some steamed green beans seasoned with garlic and lemon. Roasted vegetables also complement the cheesy ground beef flavors beautifully without overwhelming the dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist at family gatherings or potlucks, serve this cobbler in individual ramekins for personal portions. You can also create a layered platter by adding a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of hot sauce on the side for guests who want a bit more punch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your cobbler, let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, your Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it an easy next-day meal.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Wrap the cooled cobbler tightly with foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave until warmed through, or reheat the entire dish in a 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. A quick brush of butter before reheating helps keep the biscuit topping soft and flavorful.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While cheddar cheese is classic and delicious, feel free to experiment with cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby, or even a hint of smoked gouda for a unique twist. Just be mindful of the melting qualities to keep that perfect texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The traditional Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix contains gluten, so this recipe is not naturally gluten-free. However, you can try substituting with a gluten-free biscuit mix and verify that all other ingredients are gluten-free to adapt it to your needs.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based meat alternative. The cheesy and creamy components will keep it hearty and satisfying.
How spicy is the Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe?
This dish is mild in spice, focusing more on rich, savory, and cheesy flavors. If you want to add a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños when cooking the beef mixture.
What is the best way to get a golden biscuit topping?
Brushing the hot biscuit topping with the melted butter and seasoning mixture right after baking is key to achieving that gorgeous golden color and fantastic flavor. It also keeps the biscuits moist and flavorful for an unbeatable finish.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that brings comfort, cheesy goodness, and hearty satisfaction all in one, it’s time to try the Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe. It’s a recipe that feels like home in every bite and is sure to become one of your favorite go-to meals. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, the layers of cheese, beef, and that tender biscuit crust will make everyone ask for seconds.
Print
Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 generous servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler is a hearty, comforting casserole combining savory ground beef, creamy soups, and sharp cheddar cheese topped with a cheesy biscuit crust inspired by classic Cheddar Bay biscuits. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dinner perfect for family meals or potlucks, delivering rich flavors and a golden, flaky biscuit topping baked to perfection.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
- 10.5 oz can condensed cheddar cheese soup
- 10.5 oz can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- ½ cup milk
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
Biscuit Topping
- 1 box Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix (seasoning packet reserved)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- ¼ cup butter, melted
Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- Brown the beef and onions: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef along with the diced yellow onion until the beef is browned and the onions are softened. Drain any excess grease to keep the dish from being too oily.
- Combine the beef mixture: Stir in the chopped garlic, condensed cheddar cheese soup, condensed cream of mushroom soup, ½ cup of milk, salt, and black pepper. Cook the mixture until everything is well combined and heated through. Remove from heat and fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese for extra cheesiness.
- Prepare the baking dish: Lightly spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Pour the beef mixture evenly into the dish, spreading it out smoothly. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the beef layer.
- Make the biscuit topping: In a medium bowl, combine the Cheddar Bay biscuit mix (omit the seasoning packet), 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and 2 cups milk. Stir the mixture until it forms a batter.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the biscuit batter evenly over the ground beef layer in the dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the biscuit topping is golden brown and cooked through.
- Prepare the butter topping: While the cobbler bakes, melt ¼ cup of butter and mix it with the seasoning packet from the biscuit mix for that signature Cheddar Bay flavor.
- Finish and serve: Remove the cobbler from the oven and immediately brush the biscuit topping with the seasoned melted butter. Let the cobbler rest for 5 minutes to set before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use low-fat condensed soups and reduced-fat cheese to reduce calories and fat.
- The biscuit topping can be made from scratch if preferred, but the mix provides convenience.
- Allowing the cobbler to rest helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.
- Fresh parsley not only adds color but also a mild herbaceous flavor that balances the richness.
