Cabbage and Ground Beef
There’s something heartwarming about the smell of tender cabbage mingling with savory ground beef as it simmers away, filling the kitchen with comfort and anticipation. This recipe is the kind of dish that feels like a big warm hug, simple yet satisfying, wholesome yet full of flavor. With every bite, you get a delicious balance of soft, buttery cabbage and richly seasoned beef, all tied together in a dish that’s rustic, hearty, and made for sharing.
Behind the Recipe
This dish carries the spirit of family dinners at its heart. Many of us grew up with some version of cabbage and beef, whether in a skillet, casserole, or stew. It was often the dish that brought everyone to the table quickly, thanks to its mouthwatering aroma and down-to-earth flavors. It’s one of those meals that feels like home, a reminder of how comforting simple ingredients can be when cooked with care.
Recipe Origin or Trivia
Cabbage and beef pairings can be found across cultures, from Eastern European stuffed cabbage rolls to Asian stir-fried versions with soy and ginger. What makes this combination timeless is its practicality and versatility. Cabbage was a staple in colder regions thanks to its long storage life, and ground beef provided an affordable, protein-rich base. Together, they became the foundation for countless regional specialties, proving just how beloved and universal this duo truly is.
Why You’ll Love Cabbage and Ground Beef
There are so many reasons to fall in love with this humble yet extraordinary recipe. Let’s break it down:
Versatile: Works beautifully as a main course, side dish, or even a filling for wraps or tacos.
Budget-Friendly: Uses inexpensive, widely available ingredients that stretch into a full meal.
Quick and Easy: From chopping to cooking, it comes together in under an hour without fuss.
Customizable: Add spices, herbs, or vegetables to match your preferences or cultural traditions.
Crowd-Pleasing: Its hearty and familiar flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare ahead of time and simply reheat when ready to serve.
Great for Leftovers: The flavors deepen overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
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Cabbage and Ground Beef
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Halal
Description
Comforting one-pan cabbage and ground beef skillet, tender cabbage mingles with savory, well-browned beef, sweet onions and carrots, a hint of tomato, and warm paprika, all simmered in rich broth for a hearty, budget-friendly weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef, preferably 85 to 90 percent lean
- 1 medium head green cabbage, cored and chopped (about 8 cups, 700 to 800 g)
- 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth, low sodium
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon fine salt, plus more to taste
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium high heat and add the olive oil until shimmering.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until well browned with crisp edges, 5 to 7 minutes. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Stir in the onion and cook until translucent, 3 to 4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, 30 seconds.
- Stir in the carrots, tomato paste, salt, pepper, and paprika until the vegetables are coated and the paste darkens slightly, 1 minute.
- Add the cabbage in batches, tossing after each addition until it begins to wilt and fits in the pan.
- Pour in the beef broth, scraping up browned bits. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook until the cabbage is tender but not mushy, 12 to 15 minutes.
- Uncover, taste, and adjust seasoning. Stir in the parsley, then remove from heat.
- Serve hot in bowls, with lemon wedges or crusty bread if desired.
Notes
- For lighter results, drain excess fat after browning if using higher fat beef.
- Deglaze thoroughly to capture all the flavorful browned bits from the pan.
- A squeeze of lemon or a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end brightens flavors.
- For gentle heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the paprika.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as flavors meld.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 720 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
Keywords: cabbage and ground beef, skillet dinner, one pan, budget friendly, weeknight meal, low carb, halal, comfort food
Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Getting this recipe just right is all about little details that elevate the flavor and texture:
- Brown the Beef Well: Don’t rush the browning process. Let the beef develop a golden crust for deeper flavor.
- Season in Layers: Season the beef, then the cabbage, and again at the end. This ensures balanced taste throughout.
- Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: Aim for tender but slightly crisp bites to keep the dish lively.
- Deglaze the Pan: A splash of broth or water lifts up all those delicious browned bits, making the dish richer.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Before diving in, make sure your kitchen is set up for success.
Large Skillet or Dutch Oven: Wide enough to hold the cabbage without overcrowding.
Sharp Chef’s Knife: Essential for slicing the cabbage thin and chopping vegetables.
Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring and scraping up flavorful bits.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Helps keep seasoning precise.
Ingredients in Cabbage and Ground Beef
The magic of this dish lies in how simple ingredients come together to create comfort in every bite.
- Ground Beef: 1 pound, provides the hearty, savory base.
- Green Cabbage: 1 medium head, cored and chopped, adds sweetness and texture.
- Onion: 1 large, finely chopped, builds aromatic depth.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced, enhances the flavor with a fragrant punch.
- Carrots: 2 medium, thinly sliced, bring sweetness and color.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, helps with sautéing and adds richness.
- Beef Broth: 1 cup, keeps the dish moist and deepens the flavor.
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons, adds subtle tang and body.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, balances the flavors.
- Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon, for gentle heat.
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon, gives warmth and a touch of smokiness.
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped, for a burst of freshness at the end.
Ingredient Substitutions
Sometimes you work with what you have on hand, and this recipe is forgiving.
Ground Beef: Ground turkey, chicken, or pork.
Green Cabbage: Savoy or Napa cabbage.
Olive Oil: Butter or vegetable oil.
Beef Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth.
Tomato Paste: Crushed tomatoes or ketchup.
Ingredient Spotlight
Cabbage: Mild yet subtly sweet, cabbage softens beautifully when cooked, absorbing seasonings like a sponge.
Ground Beef: Rich and savory, it anchors the dish, making it hearty and satisfying.
Instructions for Making Cabbage and Ground Beef
Now let’s cook this comforting skillet meal together, step by step.
- Preheat Your Equipment: Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, adding the olive oil until shimmering.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, then stir in onion and garlic. Cook until fragrant.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Add carrots, tomato paste, and seasonings. Stir well so everything mingles.
- Assemble the Dish: Stir in the chopped cabbage in batches, letting it wilt before adding more.
- Cook to Perfection: Pour in the beef broth, cover, and reduce the heat. Simmer for 15 minutes until cabbage is tender yet slightly crisp.
- Finishing Touches: Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt and pepper. Stir in parsley.
- Serve and Enjoy: Dish it up hot, letting the aroma draw everyone to the table.
Texture & Flavor Secrets
The beauty of this dish lies in its contrasts. The cabbage softens to a tender, almost silky texture while the beef remains rich and meaty. Sweet carrots and aromatic onions balance the savoriness, and the tomato paste adds just enough tang to brighten every bite. Each forkful delivers a cozy harmony of flavors that’s both robust and comforting.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
A few tricks can make this recipe even easier:
- Chop the cabbage ahead of time and store in the fridge to save prep work later.
- Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little heat.
What to Avoid
To keep your dish perfect, steer clear of these common mistakes:
- Overcooking cabbage, which can make it mushy.
- Skipping the browning step, which robs the beef of flavor.
- Adding too much liquid, which can turn the dish soupy.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 320
Note These are approximate values.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can make it a day in advance, as the flavors improve overnight. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
How to Serve Cabbage and Ground Beef
Serve it as is for a low-carb, hearty meal, or pair it with fluffy rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or warm crusty bread to soak up the juices. For a lighter option, tuck it into lettuce wraps or serve alongside a fresh green salad.
Creative Leftover Transformations
Leftovers don’t have to be boring:
- Use as a filling for stuffed peppers.
- Spoon into tortillas for a quick cabbage-beef taco.
- Stir into pasta or noodles for a new twist.
Additional Tips
Add a squeeze of lemon before serving to brighten the dish. A pinch of fresh herbs like dill or thyme can also elevate the flavor profile without overpowering the comforting base.
Make It a Showstopper
Presentation matters. Serve in a rustic cast iron skillet for a farmhouse feel, or plate neatly in shallow bowls with a garnish of parsley for a modern touch. The golden beef and green cabbage already make a vibrant contrast, so let their natural colors shine.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
- Asian-Inspired: Use soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil.
- Italian Twist: Stir in oregano, basil, and Parmesan cheese.
- Cheesy Bake: Sprinkle shredded cheddar and broil until bubbly.
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, swap the beef for lentils or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Q2: Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, but keep in mind the flavor will be slightly more robust and the color will deepen.
Q3: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to revive moisture.
Q4: Can I add potatoes?
Definitely, diced potatoes make the dish heartier and more filling.
Q5: Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
Q6: Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the beef first, then transfer to a slow cooker with the remaining ingredients and cook on low for 6 hours.
Q7: What kind of beef should I use?
Lean ground beef works best to avoid too much grease.
Q8: Can I add cheese?
Yes, shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top can make it extra comforting.
Q9: Does it taste better the next day?
Yes, the flavors meld beautifully overnight, making leftovers even more delicious.
Q10: What can I serve with it besides rice or potatoes?
Try pairing with quinoa, couscous, or even a crusty slice of garlic bread.
Conclusion
Cabbage and Ground Beef is the kind of recipe that proves you don’t need complicated ingredients to make something truly comforting and delicious. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and endlessly adaptable, making it a reliable go-to for any night of the week. Trust me, you’re going to love this one, and once you try it, it just might become a regular star at your dinner table.
