Ground beef and cabbage is a cozy, hearty meal made with simple ingredients. Tender cabbage and seasoned ground beef come together in a flavorful, filling dish the whole family can enjoy. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with comfort in every bite.
Why We Love This Ground Beef and Cabbage Recipe
One of the biggest reasons this recipe has stood the test of time is its versatility. Whether you’re cooking for one or preparing a meal for the entire family, ground beef and cabbage fits the bill. It doesn’t require elaborate preparation or hard-to-find ingredients, making it an accessible option for anyone, regardless of cooking experience. Moreover, the nutrients found in cabbage offer health benefits, while the ground beef provides a source of protein that keeps everyone satisfied. You’ll love how easily this dish can adapt to your personal tastes and preferences, and it’s just as enjoyable as leftovers the next day.
Ingredients about Ground Beef and Cabbage
To prepare this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon bouillon powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 small head cabbage, chopped
- 1/4 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup carrots, julienned or grated
- Parsley for garnish
How to Make Ground Beef and Cabbage Directions
Creating this delicious ground beef and cabbage dish is straightforward and requires minimal time. Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. As the oil warms, add the diced onion and minced garlic. You’ll want to sauté these until they soften, infusing your kitchen with a delightful aroma.
After the onion and garlic have softened, it’s time to add the diced tomatoes. Allow them to cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step enhances the flavor base of your dish, providing a lovely tang that complements the richness of the beef.
Next, introduce the ground beef into the skillet. As it cooks, break it up into smaller pieces, ensuring that it browns evenly. Once the beef is fully browned, you can enhance its flavor profile by stirring in paprika (if you choose to use it), thyme, salt, white pepper, bouillon powder, and Worcestershire sauce. This mix of seasonings elevates your dish from simple to sensational.
Now it’s time to add the star of the show: the chopped cabbage. Gently fold the cabbage into the skillet, allowing it to cook and soften for about 5 minutes. The cabbage should begin to wilt and absorb all the wonderful flavors from the skillet.
If you’re using grated or julienned carrots, this is the moment to introduce them as well. Pour in the low-sodium beef broth next. This will help to build a beautiful base for your meal. Allow the cabbage to simmer for another 5 minutes, or until it reaches the consistency you prefer—simmer longer for a softer texture or less if you enjoy a bit of crunch.
Once everything is cooked to your liking, carefully take the skillet off the heat. Let it cool for a minute, then garnish your feast with freshly chopped parsley. This final touch not only adds a splash of color but also a hint of freshness that brightens the dish.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Cabbage
Serving your ground beef and cabbage meal is just as important as preparing it. For a delightful dining experience, you can serve this dish in individual bowls. This encourages everyone to dig in and enjoy the meal together. A sprinkle of extra parsley on top can make the presentation even more appealing.
Consider pairing your ground beef and cabbage with a side of warm bread or over a bed of rice. If you want to keep it lighter, a simple side salad complements the flavors perfectly. Given the hearty nature of this dish, it stands well on its own but can easily adapt to whatever sides you have on hand.
Expert Tips: Ground Beef and Cabbage
To elevate your ground beef and cabbage, keep these expert tips in mind:
- Use High-Quality Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to reduce excessive fat and keep the dish healthier.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables. Bell peppers or green beans can make delightful additions.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Everyone has different tastes, so don’t hesitate to tweak the spice levels to suit your preferences.
- Garnish Well: A bit of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream could take this dish to a whole new level of comfort.
- Cook in Batches: If you’re cooking for a crowd, consider doubling the recipe. This dish freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep.
How to Store Ground Beef and Cabbage
Storing your ground beef and cabbage is simple and ensures that you can enjoy leftovers in the days to come. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
You can keep the dish in the refrigerator for up to three to four days. If you wish to extend its shelf life, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. When properly stored, it can last for about three months in the freezer. To enjoy again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, ensuring it is heated through before serving.
Variation of Ground Beef and Cabbage
One of the great things about ground beef and cabbage is its adaptability. Here are a few variations to try out:
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño during cooking.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap out the ground beef for lentils or a meat substitute to create a vegetarian version of this dish.
- Asian Flair: Incorporate soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger to give your ground beef and cabbage an Asian twist.
- Southwestern Style: Add black beans, corn, and chili powder for a southwestern taste. Top with avocado for an extra treat.
- Herb Additions: Experiment with different herbs such as basil or dill for a unique flavor profile.
FAQ
How do I prepare Ground Beef and Cabbage?
To prepare ground beef and cabbage, begin by heating olive oil in a skillet, followed by sautéing onions and garlic. Add tomatoes, ground beef, and your choice of spices before introducing the cabbage and broth. Cook until everything is tender and flavors are well combined.
What are the key ingredients in Ground Beef and Cabbage?
The key ingredients include ground beef, cabbage, diced tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a mix of seasonings. These combine to create a hearty, nutritious meal that is not only filling but also packed with flavor.
How can I customize my Ground Beef and Cabbage?
Customization is simple! You can add extra vegetables, adjust seasonings to your liking, or even substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative for different dietary preferences.
Can I make Ground Beef and Cabbage in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare ground beef and cabbage ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and reheat when ready to serve. It’s a fantastic meal prep option that stays fresh as leftovers.
Ground Beef and Cabbage
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Cutting Board
- Knife
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika optional
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 teaspoon bouillon powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 small head cabbage chopped
- 1/4 cup low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup carrots julienned or grated
- parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened.
- Add the diced tomatoes and cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Introduce the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks until browned.
- Stir in the paprika, thyme, salt, white pepper, bouillon powder, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Add the chopped cabbage and fold it into the mixture, cooking for about 5 minutes until it starts to wilt.
- Incorporate the carrots and pour in the beef broth, allowing the mixture to simmer for another 5 minutes.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.