Introduction
Transform humble ground beef and pantry staples into a comforting, cheesy cobbler that’s surprisingly easy and quick to make! This recipe is all about maximizing flavor with minimal effort, proving that delicious doesn’t have to be complicated. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this Southern-inspired delight!
Why This Works
This Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler is a winner because it expertly balances savory and cheesy flavors. The tender ground beef filling is perfectly complemented by the buttery, flaky biscuit topping, creating a delightful textural contrast. It’s incredibly easy to assemble, uses readily available ingredients, and delivers big on taste – a true crowd-pleaser with minimal fuss.
Key Ingredients
🥩 1 lb ground beef
🧅 1 medium onion, chopped
🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
🥫 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cheddar cheese soup
🥛 1/2 cup milk
🧀 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
🧈 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
🥣 2 cups all-purpose flour
🧂 1 teaspoon salt
😋 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
🥛 1 cup milk
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Beef Filling: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef (🥩). Drain off any excess grease. Add the chopped onion (🧅) and minced garlic (🧄) and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the cheddar cheese soup (🥫) and milk (🥛). Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. Stir in 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese (🧀) and remove from heat.
2️⃣ Make the Biscuit Topping: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour (🥣), salt (🧂), and baking powder (😋). Gradually add the melted butter (🧈) and milk (🥛), mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
3️⃣ Assemble the Cobbler: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the beef mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough evenly over the top of the beef mixture. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese (🧀) over the biscuits.
4️⃣ Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Let cool slightly before serving.
Handy Tips
- For a richer flavor, use a blend of cheddar cheeses, such as sharp cheddar and extra sharp cheddar.
- If you don’t have condensed cheddar cheese soup, you can substitute with a homemade cheese sauce or a creamy tomato soup.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the beef filling.
- Don’t overmix the biscuit dough, as this can result in tough biscuits.
Heat Control
The oven temperature of 375°F (190°C) is crucial for achieving perfectly golden-brown biscuits and a bubbly, heated filling. Keep an eye on the cobbler during the last 5-10 minutes of baking. If the biscuits are browning too quickly, loosely tent the dish with foil. The cobbler is done when the biscuits are golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Crunch Factor
The crunch comes from the buttery, flaky biscuits. The baking process creates a light and airy texture, while the melted butter adds richness and a delicate crispness to the exterior. Avoid over-mixing the biscuit dough to maintain this light and airy texture.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Prep the onion and garlic ahead of time to save time.
- Use a 9×13 inch baking dish for even cooking.
- For an extra cheesy flavor, sprinkle some Parmesan cheese over the biscuits before baking.
- To easily clean up, line your baking dish with parchment paper.
Storage Tips
Store leftover cobbler in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until heated through.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This cobbler makes a wonderful gift! Package individual portions in disposable aluminum foil containers and tie with a ribbon. Add a handwritten tag with the recipe for a personal touch.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Southwestern: Add a diced jalapeño pepper and a sprinkle of chili powder to the beef filling. Top with shredded Monterey Jack cheese.
🌟 Mushroom Medley: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the onions and garlic for an earthy twist.
🌟 Bacon Cheddar Bliss: Crumble cooked bacon over the top of the biscuits before baking for extra savory flavor.
🌟 Creamy Herb: Stir in 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs (such as thyme or rosemary) to the beef mixture for a fragrant touch.
Troubleshooting
- Dry Biscuits: If your biscuits are dry, you may have added too much flour or not enough milk. Next time, add the milk gradually and mix until just combined.
- Soggy Filling: If the filling is too watery, increase the cooking time of the beef mixture to allow excess liquid to evaporate.
- Burnt Biscuits: If the biscuits are burning too quickly, reduce the oven temperature slightly or tent the dish with foil.
FAQ
- Can I freeze this cobbler? Yes, you can freeze the assembled cobbler before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
- Can I use different types of ground meat? Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for the ground beef.
- How can I make this recipe gluten-free? Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the biscuits.
- How can I make this recipe dairy-free? Substitute the cheddar cheese soup with a dairy-free alternative and use a vegan butter and milk. Dairy-free cheese options are available but may alter the flavor profile.
- Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double the recipe by using a larger baking dish.
Conclusion
This Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler is a recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy experimenting with the flavor variations and share your creations with friends and family! Happy cooking!
Cheddar Bay Beef Cobbler: Southern Comfort Food
A delightful twist on classic beef cobbler with a cheesy, buttery biscuit topping inspired by Cheddar Bay biscuits.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 190u00b0C (375u00b0F).
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through.
- Transfer the beef mixture into a greased baking dish.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, then add the milk gradually, mixing until just combined.
- Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit batter over the beef mixture, covering as much as possible.
- Sprinkle garlic powder and paprika over the top of the biscuit layer.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Tips
- For extra flavor, add a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Make the biscuit topping ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to use.