Cabbage and Ground Beef

Hello, dear readers! Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that’s hearty, comforting, and incredibly easy to make—Cabbage and Ground Beef. This dish is a one-pan wonder that combines tender cabbage with flavorful ground beef, all cooked together in a savory sauce. It’s a simple, budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something filling and nutritious on the table fast. Let’s dive into this classic, homey recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cabbage and Ground Beef dish is the ultimate comfort food. It’s rich, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, thanks to the combination of protein-rich ground beef and fiber-loaded cabbage. The ingredients are basic, but when cooked together, they create a deliciously satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Plus, it’s a versatile dish—you can enjoy it as is, or serve it over rice, mashed potatoes, or even pasta for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef: The base of the dish, providing hearty, savory flavor.
• 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped: Adds bulk and nutrition to the dish, becoming tender and slightly sweet as it cooks.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: Enhances the flavor with its aromatic qualities.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds depth and a robust flavor to the dish.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Provides a tangy, juicy element that complements the beef and cabbage.
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the savory beef and cabbage.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the dish.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables and browning the beef.
• Optional: Red pepper flakes: For a touch of heat, adjust to your taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Vegetables:

• Start by chopping the cabbage, onion, and garlic. The cabbage should be cut into bite-sized pieces, and the onion and garlic should be finely chopped.

2. Cook the Ground Beef:

• In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s browned and fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once cooked, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pan.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:

• In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

4. Add the Cabbage:

• Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to soften. The cabbage will reduce in volume as it cooks down.

5. Combine and Simmer:

• Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the cabbage. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Mix everything together until well combined.
• Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cabbage to become tender.

6. Season and Serve:

• Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve the Cabbage and Ground Beef hot, either on its own or over your favorite side.

Serving Suggestions

As a Main Course: Serve this dish on its own for a low-carb, high-protein meal. It’s filling and satisfying on its own, but also pairs well with crusty bread for soaking up the savory juices.

Over Rice or Potatoes: For a heartier meal, serve the Cabbage and Ground Beef over steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or pasta. The starchy base will complement the flavors of the dish and make it even more comforting.

Tips for Making the Best Cabbage and Ground Beef

• Use Lean Ground Beef: To reduce excess fat in the dish, opt for lean ground beef. If using a higher fat content beef, be sure to drain the excess grease after browning the meat.
• Cook the Cabbage Thoroughly: Cabbage can take a little time to become tender, so be patient and let it cook down until it reaches your desired texture.
• Adjust the Flavor: Feel free to add more spices, herbs, or even a splash of Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor profile.

Variations and Substitutions

• Add Vegetables: Enhance the nutrition by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms. Simply sauté them with the onions before adding the cabbage.
• Spicy Version: Add a few dashes of hot sauce or an extra pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of this dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, this dish actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze this dish? Yes, Cabbage and Ground Beef freezes well. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish is packed with protein from the ground beef and fiber from the cabbage, making it a nutritious option for any meal. Cabbage is also rich in vitamins C and K, while the tomatoes provide antioxidants and additional nutrients.

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Final Thoughts

Thank you for joining me in making this hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef dish! It’s a simple, comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re enjoying it as a standalone dish or pairing it with your favorite sides, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations and tag us on social media! Here’s to many more delicious and memorable meals. Happy cooking!