Description

Craving a hearty, comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of a cheesy beef casserole with the irresistible, buttery goodness of Cheddar Bay biscuits? Look no further than Slow Cooker Cheddar Bay Ground Beef Cobbler! This must-try recipe features a savory ground beef filling seasoned with paprika, thyme, and Worcestershire sauce, slow-cooked to perfection, and topped with fluffy, cheddar-packed biscuits brushed with garlic butter. The slow cooker makes the beef filling tender and flavorful, while the biscuits are baked separately to achieve their golden, flaky texture, then added for a restaurant-quality finish.

Ingredients

For the Ground Beef Filling

Ground Beef (1 lb): Provides savory, hearty flavor.
- Substitution: Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based ground meat for vegetarian or lighter options.
Onion (½, diced): Adds sweet, savory depth.
- Substitution: Shallots, leeks, or ½ tsp onion powder.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses aromatic warmth.
- Substitution: ½ tsp garlic powder if fresh isn’t available.
Paprika (½ tsp): Adds smoky depth and color.
- Substitution: Smoked paprika, chili powder, or omit for a milder flavor.
Dried Thyme (½ tsp): Brings earthy, herby notes.
- Substitution: Dried oregano, rosemary, or Italian seasoning.
Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp): Enhances umami and savory richness.
- Substitution: Soy sauce, tamari, or balsamic vinegar for vegetarian.
Tomato Paste (2 tbsp): Adds tangy, concentrated flavor.
- Substitution: Ketchup or ¼ cup crushed tomatoes (reduce broth slightly).
Beef Broth (½ cup): Keeps the filling moist and savory.
- Substitution: Chicken broth, vegetable broth, or water with a bouillon cube.
Salt and Pepper (to taste, about ½ tsp each): Enhances overall flavor.
- Substitution: Sea salt or white pepper for variation.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Melts into the filling for cheesy richness.
- Substitution: Colby, Monterey Jack, or vegan cheddar.

For the Biscuit Topping

All-Purpose Flour (1¼ cups): Forms the base of the fluffy biscuits.
- Substitution: Gluten-free flour blend or whole wheat flour (texture may vary).
Baking Powder (1 tbsp): Ensures light, risen biscuits.
- Substitution: 1 tsp baking soda + 2 tsp cream of tartar if baking powder is unavailable.
Garlic Powder (½ tsp): Adds signature Cheddar Bay flavor.
- Substitution: 1 fresh garlic clove, minced, or onion powder.
Salt (¼ tsp): Enhances biscuit flavor.
- Substitution: Sea salt or omit for low-sodium diets.
Cold Unsalted Butter (½ cup, cubed): Creates flaky, tender biscuits.
- Substitution: Vegan butter or shortening for dairy-free.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Adds cheesy, savory depth to biscuits.
- Substitution: Sharp cheddar, Gouda, or vegan cheddar.
Whole Milk (½ cup): Binds the dough for a tender texture.
- Substitution: Plant-based milk, buttermilk, or heavy cream diluted with water.
Chopped Fresh Parsley (1 tbsp, optional): Adds color and freshness to biscuits.
- Substitution: Dried parsley, chives, or omit.

For Garlic Butter Brushing (optional)

Melted Butter (2 tbsp): Creates a glossy, garlicky finish.
- Substitution: Olive oil or vegan butter.
Garlic Powder (¼ tsp): Enhances the Cheddar Bay flavor.
- Substitution: Minced fresh garlic (lightly sautéed).
Chopped Parsley (1 tsp): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch.
- Substitution: Chives or omit.

Why They’re Important: Ground beef and cheddar form the hearty, cheesy filling, while tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce add depth. The biscuit topping, packed with cheddar and garlic powder, delivers the iconic Cheddar Bay flavor, and the garlic butter brush elevates it with a buttery, aromatic finish. Parsley adds a fresh, polished look.

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Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Beef Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spatula (about 5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat if desired.
Add ½ diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Stir in ½ tsp paprika, ½ tsp dried thyme, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 2 tbsp tomato paste, and ½ cup beef broth. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Season with salt and pepper to taste (about ½ tsp each). Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese until melted and combined.
- Tip: For leaner beef, draining fat may not be necessary. If skipping the skillet, add raw beef, onions, and garlic to the slow cooker and cook on high for 1 hour to brown, then drain fat before adding other ingredients (but skillet method is quicker and enhances flavor).

Step 2: Slow Cook the Filling

Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker, spreading it evenly.
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, until the flavors meld and the filling is rich and bubbly.
- Tip: Stir halfway through if possible to ensure even cooking. If the filling looks too watery, cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes on high to thicken. Add 1-2 tbsp broth if it seems dry.

Step 3: Prepare the Biscuit Dough

About 30 minutes before the filling is done, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
In a large bowl, whisk together 1¼ cups all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp baking powder, ½ tsp garlic powder, and ¼ tsp salt.
Cut in ½ cup cold, cubed unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and ½ cup whole milk until just combined—do not overmix to keep biscuits tender. Add 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (if using) for extra flavor.
- Tip: Keep butter cold for flaky biscuits. If the dough is too sticky, add 1 tbsp flour; if too dry, add 1 tsp milk. Handle the dough minimally to avoid tough biscuits.

Step 4: Bake the Biscuits

Drop spoonfuls of the biscuit dough onto the prepared baking sheet, forming 6-8 biscuits (about 2 inches each). Gently flatten or shape for even baking.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through.
While biscuits bake, prepare the optional garlic butter: mix 2 tbsp melted butter, ¼ tsp garlic powder, and 1 tsp chopped parsley in a small bowl.
Brush the warm biscuits with garlic butter immediately after baking for a glossy, flavorful finish.
- Tip: Check biscuits at 15 minutes to avoid overbrowning. Place biscuits close together for softer sides or spaced apart for crispier edges.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Spoon the hot beef filling into a serving dish or individual plates, creating a thick, even layer.
Place 1-2 warm biscuits on top of each portion of beef filling, ensuring a generous amount of cheesy filling beneath.
Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a vibrant, fresh finish.
Serve immediately with sides like a green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted carrots for a complete meal.
- Tip: For a casserole-style presentation, transfer the beef filling to an oven-safe dish, top with baked biscuits, and broil for 1-2 minutes to warm through (watch closely to avoid burning).