Cabbage and ground beef is a hearty, satisfying dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep. This simple and flavorful recipe combines tender, sautéed cabbage with seasoned ground beef, creating a nutritious and comforting meal. It’s a one-pan wonder, requiring minimal ingredients and effort, but delivering big on flavor.
Whether you’re looking for an easy family dinner, a low-carb meal, or a dish to stretch your budget, cabbage and ground beef is a versatile option. Let’s dive into how to make this comforting classic.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional)
- ¼ cup beef broth or water
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Steps
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, dice the onion, and mince the garlic. Set aside.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
- Heat a large skillet or pan over medium heat. Add the olive oil and ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper. Continue to cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet if needed.
3. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- Push the cooked ground beef to one side of the skillet. In the same pan, add the diced onion and garlic to the empty side, cooking until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the Cabbage:
- Stir the cabbage into the skillet, combining it with the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to wilt down and soften slightly.
5. Season the Dish:
- Sprinkle paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper over the cabbage and beef mixture. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
6. Add Tomatoes and Simmer:
- If you’re using diced tomatoes, add them to the skillet along with the beef broth or water. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally.
7. Serve:
- Once the cabbage is fully cooked, remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a burst of color and flavor.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a diced jalapeño to give the dish a kick of heat.
- Cheesy Option: Once the cabbage and ground beef are cooked, sprinkle shredded cheese (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mozzarella) on top. Cover the pan and let the cheese melt before serving.
- Tomato-Free Version: Skip the diced tomatoes and broth if you prefer a drier version of this dish. The cabbage will release some liquid as it cooks, but without the tomatoes, it will have a more sautéed texture.
- Add Carrots or Bell Peppers: For more vegetables, try adding thinly sliced carrots or bell peppers when you add the cabbage. This adds color and a touch of sweetness.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cabbage: Green cabbage works best for this recipe, but you can also use Napa or Savoy cabbage for a different texture and flavor.
- Use Lean Ground Beef: Opt for ground beef that is around 85% lean to balance flavor and fat. If you’re using fattier ground beef, drain the excess grease after browning.
- Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: The cabbage should be tender but still have a slight bite to it. Overcooking can make it too mushy.
- Meal Prep Friendly: This dish reheats well, making it ideal for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Cabbage and ground beef is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, it’s an ideal option for busy weeknights or when you’re looking for a comforting, budget-friendly meal. The combination of tender cabbage and savory ground beef, seasoned with warm spices, is both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences.
Serve this dish on its own, over rice, or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. Once you try it, this hearty dish is sure to become a regular on your dinner rotation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef? Yes, you can easily substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious. You may want to add a bit of extra seasoning since turkey and chicken are leaner and milder in flavor.
2. Can I make this dish vegetarian? To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu. You could also use lentils or beans as a protein-rich alternative.
3. How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
4. Can I freeze cabbage and ground beef? Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet or microwave.
5. What can I serve with cabbage and ground beef? This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, including rice, mashed potatoes, or even a slice of crusty bread. You can also serve it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for a more balanced meal.
