Cabbage and Ground Beef Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s both quick to make and incredibly satisfying, look no further than this Cabbage and Ground Beef recipe. It’s deliciously simple—just layers of tender cabbage mingling with savory ground beef and bursts of tomato, all seasoned to perfection. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or just want a fuss-free dish that still feels special, this one-pan wonder is about to become your new kitchen go-to. Trust me, it’s the ultimate way to upgrade humble ingredients, showing off just how good Cabbage and Ground Beef can be when made with care and love.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing fancy here—just kitchen staples and a few fresh picks that work magic together! Each of these ingredients brings something important: flavor, texture, color, or heartiness. Let’s take a closer look at exactly what you’ll need (and why):
- Ground beef (1 pound): The main character, giving the dish rich flavor and satisfying protein.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps brown the beef and adds a subtle, delicious depth.
- Onion, diced (1 small): Sweet and slightly sharp, onion brings an essential aromatic layer.
- Garlic, minced (3 cloves): This elevates everything with its classic, warming punch.
- Green cabbage, chopped (1 small head, about 6 cups): The star veggie—cabbage softens beautifully, soaking up all the savory juices.
- Diced tomatoes, undrained (1 can, 14.5 oz): Adds a pop of tang and a bit of saucy moisture.
- Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Gives a touch of smokiness that plays perfectly with beef and tomato.
- Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Infuses earthiness and a hint of Mediterranean flair.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances flavors and enhances all the savory notes.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Rounds out the seasoning with mild heat.
- Tomato paste (1 tablespoon, optional): For those who crave a deeper, richer tomato flavor.
- Beef broth or water (1/4 cup if needed): A quick splash prevents dryness and melds the mixture.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional): A sprinkle of green for freshness and color at the end.
How to Make Cabbage and Ground Beef
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Crumble in the ground beef and let it cook for 6 to 8 minutes. Make sure you break it up as it browns, so you get lots of savory bits throughout. Once it’s no longer pink and it’s all lovely and browned, drain off any excess fat if you want things a bit lighter. This step is where Cabbage and Ground Beef gets its hearty, umami-rich base.
Step 2: Soften the Aromatics
To your sizzling beef, toss in the diced onions and garlic. Give everything a good stir and let it cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. The onion should become translucent and the garlic will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma—this is the kind of foundation that promises a crave-worthy meal.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage
Now’s the time to invite in the star vegetable: cabbage! Add your chopped green cabbage to the skillet. Don’t worry if it looks like a lot, it will cook down beautifully. Stir occasionally and let it soften and wilt for 5 to 7 minutes. The magic happens as the cabbage absorbs those savory meat juices and starts to mellow out.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Spices
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (don’t forget the juices for extra flavor!). Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, pepper, and if you’re using it, the tomato paste. This is where Cabbage and Ground Beef really starts to sing—everything melds into a deep, satisfying stew.
Step 5: Simmer Until Tender
Give your mixture a really good stir. If it looks a bit dry, add a splash of beef broth or water to keep things moist. Cover the skillet and let it simmer gently over medium-low heat for 10 to 15 minutes. You want the cabbage to be tender but not mushy, and all those bright, savory flavors to combine in perfect harmony. Taste and tweak the seasoning if you like—maybe a little more salt or pepper. When it tastes just right, you’re ready to serve!
How to Serve Cabbage and Ground Beef
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is my favorite finishing touch. It wakes up the flavors and adds a pop of color that makes the whole dish look inviting. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a dollop of sour cream or a shower of grated sharp cheddar for extra richness.
Side Dishes
This Cabbage and Ground Beef is fantastic on its own for a low-carb meal. But if you’re craving something extra, it goes beautifully over fluffy rice, comforting mashed potatoes, or nutty quinoa. Crusty bread on the side is ideal for soaking up every last drop of the saucy goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
You can spoon it into bowls for a cozy dinner, or scoop it into roasted bell pepper halves for a fun, colorful twist. Leftovers are also delicious tucked inside tortillas or pita for a hearty lunch wrap. However you serve it up, this Cabbage and Ground Beef dish is as versatile as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer leftover Cabbage and Ground Beef to an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and the flavors get even better as they mingle overnight. Just be sure to let it cool a bit before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully! Pack cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or sturdy zip-top bags (press out as much air as possible). It’ll keep in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture before reheating.
Reheating
For best results, reheat Cabbage and Ground Beef gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of water or beef broth to loosen things up. Stir occasionally to heat evenly and watch it spring back to life!
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even pork if you like. Just keep in mind that beef brings a richness that’s classic to Cabbage and Ground Beef, but other proteins will work and taste great too.
Do I have to use smoked paprika?
No worries if you don’t have smoked paprika—it adds a lovely subtle smoke, but regular paprika or even a pinch of chili powder can stand in. If you want a deeper, earthier taste, try a dash of cumin as well!
What if my skillet isn’t big enough for all the cabbage?
If things are overflowing, simply add the cabbage in batches. Stir until some wilts down and creates more space, then add the rest. The cabbage cooks down a lot, so don’t worry—it will all fit in the end!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as written, this Cabbage and Ground Beef recipe is naturally gluten-free. If you add any sides, like bread, just be sure to check those if you’re avoiding gluten.
How can I make it spicier?
If you like a little heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce along with the spices. You can also toss in a chopped jalapeño with the onions for a more pronounced kick!
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply comforting about a skillet of Cabbage and Ground Beef bubbling away on the stove—it’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table hungry and happy. If you haven’t tried it yet, I hope this recipe inspires you to grab a cabbage, brown some beef, and discover just how cozy and craveable this combo can be. Enjoy your new favorite one-pan dinner!
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Cabbage and Ground Beef Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cabbage and Ground Beef recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that is easy to make and perfect for a satisfying meal. Tender ground beef is cooked with onions, garlic, and cabbage, then simmered with tomatoes and spices for a delicious one-pan dinner.
Ingredients
Ground Beef:
1 pound
Olive Oil:
1 tablespoon
Onion, diced:
1 small
Garlic, minced:
3 cloves
Green Cabbage, chopped:
1 small head (about 6 cups)
Diced Tomatoes, undrained:
1 (14.5 oz) can
Smoked Paprika:
1 teaspoon
Dried Oregano:
1/2 teaspoon
Salt:
1/2 teaspoon
Black Pepper:
1/4 teaspoon
Tomato Paste (optional):
1 tablespoon
Beef Broth or Water (if needed):
1/4 cup
Parsley for garnish (optional):
chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
- Add diced onion and garlic, and cook until fragrant and softened.
- Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook until slightly wilted.
- Add diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
- If dry, add a splash of beef broth or water. Cover and simmer until tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Serve as-is for a low-carb meal or pair with rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes.
- For added heat, stir in red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
