Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler

Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Filling

1. Brown the Beef: Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
2. Cook the Vegetables: Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté until the vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. If using mushrooms, add them at this stage and cook until they soften.
3. Add Seasonings and Liquids: Stir in the smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the frozen mixed vegetables, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine, then simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the beef mixture into a 9-inch baking dish or cast-iron skillet, spreading it evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Cheddar Bay Biscuit Topping

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to preheat.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Add Cheese and Butter: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, then pour in the melted butter, mixing gently.
4. Add Buttermilk: Slowly add the buttermilk to the dry mixture, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; the dough should be thick and slightly sticky.

Step 3: Assemble the Cobbler

1. Spoon the Biscuit Topping: Using a spoon or a small ice cream scoop, drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough over the ground beef filling. Cover the surface as evenly as possible, leaving a few small gaps to allow steam to escape.
2. Bake the Cobbler: Place the assembled cobbler in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the biscuits are golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

1. Add Extra Cheese (Optional): For an extra cheesy touch, sprinkle a handful of cheddar cheese over the biscuits in the last 5 minutes of baking, allowing it to melt.
2. Garnish with Parsley: Once baked, remove the cobbler from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and a hint of freshness.

Serving Suggestions

This Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler is best enjoyed warm, straight from the oven! Serve it with:

• A simple side salad to add freshness and balance the richness of the cobbler.
• Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus.
• A dollop of sour cream or hot sauce for an extra tangy kick.

Tips for Perfecting Your Cobbler

1. Season the Beef Mixture: Taste and adjust the seasoning of the beef filling before adding the biscuit topping.
2. Customize the Veggies: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables, such as green beans, zucchini, or even diced potatoes, for a unique twist.
3. Use a Cast-Iron Skillet: If you have a cast-iron skillet, it’s an excellent choice for even baking and a beautiful, rustic presentation.

Storing and Reheating

To store leftovers, cover the cobbler and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated 350°F oven until warmed through, or microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.

Final Thoughts

This Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler combines hearty ground beef and veggies with the magic of Cheddar Bay biscuits, creating a unique, satisfying meal that’s perfect for cool evenings and cozy gatherings. The crisp, buttery biscuits paired with the savory, comforting filling will leave everyone craving more.