Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe

If you’re craving the ultimate comfort food, look no further than Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler. This irresistible casserole combines juicy, seasoned ground beef topped with a golden, cheesy Cheddar Bay biscuit topping, baking up into a bubbling, savory dish that’s impossible to resist. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this cobbler never fails to satisfy those deep down, stick-to-your-ribs cravings — and it always disappears fast!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler couldn’t be easier, and every item plays a special role in flavor, texture, or that eye-catching cheesy top. These simple staples weave together into something extraordinary!

• 1 pound ground beef: The heart of the cobbler — juicy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown your onions and beef for rich, savory flavor.
• 1 small onion (diced): Adds a softened sweetness and depth to every bite.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced): For that irresistible aroma and extra savory punch.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning your beef just right.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Lends gentle warmth and balances out the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smoky note that raises the wow factor.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Deepens the savory flavor with a bit of umami magic.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Adds body and a touch of tang to the filling.
• 1/4 cup beef broth: Keeps the beef mixture juicy and just the right consistency.
• 1 1/2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (optional): A pop of color and nutrients (plus kid appeal!).
• 1 package (11 oz) Cheddar Bay biscuit mix (like Red Lobster brand): Shortcut to those signature cheesy, garlicky biscuits!
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For that unbeatable gooeyness and flavor boost.
• 3/4 cup milk: Helps create that tender, pillowy biscuit topping.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted): Makes the biscuits rich and golden.
• Seasoning packet from biscuit mix: Sprinkled atop for even more savory flair.

How to Make Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler

Step 1: Prep Your Pan

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch square baking dish, or whatever similarly sized oven-safe dish you have. This helps ensure nothing sticks and sets the stage for those golden, biscuit-y edges we all swoon over.

Step 2: Sauté Your Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it’s soft and just starting to get a hint of color, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and stir for another 30 seconds — your kitchen will instantly smell amazing.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add your ground beef to the skillet along with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Use a spatula to break up the meat, stirring until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. This is where you build the hearty, flavorful base for your Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth. If you’re adding frozen mixed vegetables, now’s the time to toss them in. Let everything simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld and the filling thicken slightly.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Spoon your savory beef mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly so each bite gets a bit of everything! You’re halfway to comfort food heaven.

Step 6: Mix Biscuit Topping

In a medium bowl, combine the Cheddar Bay biscuit mix (but set aside the seasoning packet for now), the shredded cheddar cheese, milk, and melted butter. Stir just until everything comes together — don’t overmix! The secret is a rustic, slightly lumpy batter that bakes up tender and fluffy.

Step 7: Top and Brush

Spoon the biscuit batter in hearty dollops over the beef mixture, then gently spread it out so most of the filling is covered. Mix the biscuit seasoning packet with 1 tablespoon of melted butter, and brush or drizzle this savory mixture all over the top for maximum flavor.

Step 8: Bake to Golden Perfection

Slide your dish into the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the biscuit topping is risen and beautifully golden brown. The irresistible aroma will have everyone circling the kitchen by now!

Step 9: Let It Rest, Then Serve

Let your Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set slightly and makes slicing and serving a breeze.

How to Serve Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives right before serving adds a burst of color and freshness on top of the golden, cheesy biscuit layer. For even more flavor, a little extra shredded cheddar or a dash of hot sauce can wake up each bite.

Side Dishes

Pair this hearty cobbler with a crisp green salad, a tangy coleslaw, or simple roasted vegetables for a touch of lightness. If you want to double down on comfort, creamy mashed potatoes or sautéed green beans are always a hit.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler in individual ramekins or oven-safe bowls—perfect for a cozy dinner party where everyone gets their own golden-topped mini cobbler. The dish also makes a showstopper centerpiece served family-style in a cast iron skillet!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The biscuit topping holds up surprisingly well, soaking up all those savory juices while still maintaining some of its fluffy texture.

Freezing

To freeze, allow the cobbler to cool completely. Wrap it tightly in foil or transfer portions to airtight freezer containers. It will keep for up to two months, making it a perfect make-ahead comfort meal for busy nights.

Reheating

Reheat chilled or thawed cobbler in a 350°F oven, uncovered, until warmed through (about 15–20 minutes). The biscuit topping may re-crisp slightly, and the filling returns to its saucy, savory glory. A microwave also works for single servings if you’re short on time.

FAQs

Can I use a different biscuit mix if I can’t find Cheddar Bay?

Absolutely! Any drop-style biscuit mix works, but for that classic flavor, add a teaspoon of garlic powder and a generous handful of shredded cheddar cheese to the batter.

What veggies work best in the cobbler?

Frozen mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, corn, and green beans) are easiest, but you can substitute or add fresh veggies like diced bell pepper, mushrooms, or even chopped spinach, depending on what you love and have on hand.

Is this recipe spicy?

The Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler is very family-friendly and mild, but you can up the heat by adding diced jalapeños to the beef or a dash of hot sauce to the biscuit topping if you like things spicy.

Can I prepare the cobbler ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the beef layer a day in advance, then add the biscuit topping and bake just before serving. For best results, wait to mix the biscuits until just before baking so they stay fluffy and fresh.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

To lighten up the cobbler, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef, substitute a light shredded cheese, and opt for low-fat milk in the biscuit mix. The flavor and comfort will still shine through!

Final Thoughts

If you love bold flavors, hearty textures, and pure coziness in a dish, you absolutely owe it to yourself to try this Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler. It brings together everything we crave in homemade comfort food, with just the right amount of wow factor to make it a family favorite. I can’t wait for you to pull this bubbling, golden bake from your oven — you’ll be hooked at first bite!

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