If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish that brings the cheesy goodness of a classic biscuit to a savory ground beef filling, then you’ve got to try this Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe. This recipe is like a warm hug on a plate, blending the rich flavors of cheddar cheese and savory ground beef beneath a fluffy, golden biscuit crust inspired by those famous Cheddar Bay biscuits. It’s a perfect meal that’s simple enough for a weeknight, yet special enough for company. Let me walk you through everything you need to know to make this cozy dish your new favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients in this recipe are simple but essential, each bringing its own special contribution to flavor, texture, and color. From the tender browned ground beef to the creamy soup mixture and that incredible cheddar biscuit topping, every element plays a vital role in creating that perfect balance between hearty and cheesy.
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef: The protein-packed base that’s juicy and perfectly browned for maximum flavor.
- 1 yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the beef mixture.
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic: A punch of savory aroma that complements the beef flawlessly.
- 10.5 oz condensed cheddar soup: Brings creamy, cheesy richness to the filling.
- 10.5 oz condensed cream of mushroom soup: Adds hearty umami and creaminess that binds everything together.
- 1/2 cup milk: Creates the perfect consistency for the filling’s sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors and enhances the savory notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper: Adds just a hint of spice for depth.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided): Half mixes in for creamy cheesiness; half tops for melty golden goodness.
- 1 box Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix: The star in the biscuit topping, delivering flaky, buttery texture with cheddar flavor.
- 2 cups milk: Used to make the biscuit batter fluffy and tender.
- 1/4 cup butter, melted: Brushed on top for a flavorful, glossy finish.
- 1 seasoning packet from Biscuit mix: A mix of herbs and spices that makes the biscuits irresistibly tasty.
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish: Adds a touch of color and fresh brightness on top.
How to Make Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
First things first, get your oven warmed up to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking from the get-go so your cobbler comes out perfectly golden and cooked through.
Step 2: Cook Ground Beef and Onions
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with diced onions, breaking up the meat as it cooks. This step creates that deeply savory base, and the sweet translucence of the onions adds great flavor complexity.
Step 3: Add Creamy Flavor Mix
Once your beef and onions are nice and cooked, stir in the chopped garlic, condensed cheddar soup, condensed cream of mushroom soup, milk, salt, and pepper. This magical combo creates a luscious, creamy filling that clings to every drop.
Step 4: Incorporate Cheese Into Mixture
Fold in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese right into the hot mixture. The cheese melts into the filling for an extra rich, gooey texture before you transfer it to the baking dish.
Step 5: Prepare Baking Dish and Layer
Spray a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Pour your beef mixture into it, spreading it evenly. Then sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top—this layer adds a melty, savory cheese blanket under the biscuit crust.
Step 6: Make Biscuit Batter
In a large bowl, combine the biscuit mix (dry only), 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and 2 cups milk. Stir gently until you get a smooth batter with no lumps. This mixture will bake up fluffy, cheesy, and golden brown to top the cobbler perfectly.
Step 7: Assemble and Bake
Pour the biscuit batter over the beef and cheese layers, covering the surface completely. Pop the dish in the oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes, until the topping is puffed, golden, and cooked through.
Step 8: Finish with Butter Glaze
Mix melted butter with the seasoning packet from your biscuit mix, then brush this flavorful glaze over the biscuit topping right after baking. This final touch gives that irresistible Cheddar Bay Biscuit signature flavor and shine.
Step 9: Rest, Garnish, and Serve
Let the cobbler sit for 5 minutes to set and thicken before slicing. Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for color and a fresh finish, then serve warm and enjoy every comforting bite.
How to Serve Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is a simple but stunning garnish that cuts through the richness and adds a pop of inviting color. You might also try a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or even a dollop of sour cream for more creaminess.
Side Dishes
This cobbler is quite filling on its own, but it pairs beautifully with crisp green salads tossed in vinaigrette, steamed green beans, or roasted veggies to balance the meal. A light coleslaw with a tangy dressing is also a wonderful contrast to the cheesy savoriness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, consider serving individual portions in ramekins for personal-sized cobblers. This makes for a cozy presentation and is perfect for dinner parties. You can also top with a sprinkle of crispy fried onions or jalapeño slices to add crunch and a little heat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover any leftover cobbler tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, perfect for quick weekday lunches or reheated dinner bites.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well if you want to make it ahead of time. Prepare the cobbler completely but hold off on the butter glaze and parsley. Wrap it tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat cobbler portions covered in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 20 minutes. You can brush a little extra melted butter on top before reheating to bring back that fresh-from-the-oven biscuit flavor and moisture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of ground meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! While lean ground beef is classic here, ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be used for a different flavor profile or leaner option. Just adjust seasoning to your taste.
Is there a vegetarian version of the Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe?
Yes, you can swap ground beef out for sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a meat substitute like plant-based crumbles. The soups and biscuit topping remain the same, so it still tastes indulgently cheesy and satisfying.
Can I make the biscuit topping from scratch instead of using a mix?
Definitely! If you prefer homemade, use your favorite cheddar biscuit or drop biscuit recipe. Just be sure it’s a batter or dough consistency that will spread to cover the whole dish evenly.
How do I know when the cobbler is fully cooked?
The biscuit topping should be an inviting golden brown, puffed up, and spring back slightly when pressed. The filling should bubble around the edges and be hot throughout—baking about 50 to 55 minutes is usually perfect.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat covered in the oven to retain moisture. Adding a bit of melted butter on top before reheating helps keep the biscuit topping tender and flavorful, preventing it from becoming dry or tough.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a warm, cheesy, and downright comforting meal that comes together with simple ingredients and feels special every bite, the Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe is your answer. It’s fun to make, easy to love, and perfect for any occasion when you want to share something hearty and delicious with friends or family. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it again and again!
Print
Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler is a comforting and hearty dish combining savory ground beef with a creamy cheddar and mushroom soup mixture, topped with a fluffy cheddar biscuit crust inspired by the famous Cheddar Bay biscuits. Baked until golden and finished with a flavorful butter glaze, this recipe offers a delicious twist on classic comfort food perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1.5 lbs lean ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon chopped garlic
- 10.5 oz condensed cheddar soup
- 10.5 oz condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Cheese Topping
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Biscuit Topping
- 1 box Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix (dry mix only)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
Butter Glaze
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 seasoning packet from Biscuit mix
Garnish
- Fresh chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for even baking.
- Cook Ground Beef and Onions: In a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, add the ground beef and diced onions. Crumble the beef thoroughly and cook until the meat is fully browned and onions are translucent.
- Add Flavorful Mix: Stir in the chopped garlic, condensed cheddar soup, condensed cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup milk, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to combine all flavors evenly.
- Add Cheese to Mixture: Fold 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese into the beef mixture, then remove the skillet from heat to stop cooking.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Spray a 9 x 13 inch baking dish with cooking spray. Pour the beef mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly to create a uniform base.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef mixture layer.
- Make Biscuit Batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine the Cheddar Bay Biscuit mix (using the dry mix only), 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, and 2 cups milk. Stir gently until the batter is smooth with no large lumps.
- Assemble Cobbler: Pour the biscuit batter evenly over the beef and cheese layers in the baking dish, covering the entire surface.
- Bake the Cobbler: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until the biscuit topping is golden brown and fully cooked.
- Prepare Butter Topping: Mix the melted butter with the seasoning packet from the biscuit mix to create a flavorful butter glaze.
- Finish the Cobbler: Remove the dish from the oven and immediately brush the butter and seasoning mixture over the biscuit topping.
- Rest and Garnish: Let the cobbler rest for 5 minutes to allow the butter to soak in and the filling to thicken. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley as desired.
- Serve: Slice into portions and serve warm for a delicious, hearty meal.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use whole milk instead of low-fat or skim milk.
- You can substitute the cheddar biscuit mix with your favorite biscuit mix and add cheddar cheese for a similar effect.
- Make sure not to overmix the biscuit batter to keep the topping light and fluffy.
- Allow the cobbler to rest before serving so the filling sets properly and is easier to slice.
- Optional: Add chopped jalapeños to the biscuit batter for a spicy kick.
