If you’re on the hunt for a hearty dinner that’s easy, budget-friendly, and seriously satisfying, look no further than Cabbage and Ground Beef. In just one skillet, you’ll bring together tender cabbage, juicy ground beef, and warm spices in a tomato-rich sauce for a fuss-free meal packed with flavor, comfort, and nostalgia. It’s one of those feel-good recipes that rewards you with robust taste and wholesome simplicity, perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a reliable crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients You’ll Need
There’s nothing fancy going on here—just a handful of staples that each work their magic for a Cabbage and Ground Beef dish that’s far greater than the sum of its parts. Every ingredient adds a special touch, from the savory base to the pop of color and subtle spice.
- Olive oil: A splash to start things off right, helping the beef brown perfectly without sticking.
- Ground beef: The protein powerhouse and star of the show, giving the dish its hearty foundation.
- Yellow onion: Brings sweetness and depth to the dish, mellowing beautifully as it cooks.
- Garlic: Just two cloves transform the whole skillet with aromatic warmth—you’ll smell it before you taste it!
- Green cabbage: Crisp and mild, it softens as it cooks while soaking up all those delicious juices.
- Diced tomatoes (with juice): Lend a tangy note and a lovely sauciness for everything to simmer together.
- Smoked paprika: Adds subtle smokiness that sets this version apart from run-of-the-mill skillet dinners.
- Dried oregano: A pinch for a herby lift and a nod to classic comfort food.
- Salt and black pepper: These basics bring all the flavors together and let you season to your perfect taste.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a gentle kick, sprinkle some in.
- Beef broth or water: Just a splash as needed, making sure the mixture stays soft and saucy, never dry.
How to Make Cabbage and Ground Beef
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it sizzles and cooks. You’re looking for nicely browned bits, which build tons of flavor. If there’s a lot of extra fat in the pan, give it a quick drain—no one likes a greasy Cabbage and Ground Beef.
Step 2: Soften the Onion and Garlic
Reduce the heat to medium low and add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Stir everything together and let it cook for about 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the onion has turned translucent and the garlic smells buttery and mellow—no raw edge, just pure savory goodness.
Step 3: Add and Wilt the Cabbage
Dump in your mountain of chopped cabbage (it always seems like a lot at first, but don’t worry, it will wilt down!). Stir it all together and cook for another 5 to 6 minutes. The cabbage will start to soften up and mingle with the beef and aromatics, absorbing those savory juices.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Now it’s time for the tomatoes, smoked paprika, oregano, plenty of salt and black pepper, and those red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Stir everything together, letting the tomatoes break down a touch and bathe the beef and cabbage in that tangy, seasoned sauce. If things seem at all dry, pour in a splash of beef broth or water.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Pop a lid on your skillet and turn the heat down to a gentle simmer. Let everything cook together for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring every so often. The cabbage will turn meltingly tender, the beef will taste even richer, and your kitchen will smell like a cozy, homey dream. Don’t forget to taste and tweak the salt and pepper before serving!
How to Serve Cabbage and Ground Beef
Garnishes
A little sprinkle goes a long way—try a dusting of fresh parsley for color, a dollop of sour cream for creaminess, or even a bit of shredded cheese if you want extra indulgence. Every bite of Cabbage and Ground Beef loves a perky, finishing touch!
Side Dishes
If you’d like to round out your meal, serve warm slices of crusty bread to mop up the juices, or pile the beef and cabbage over fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes for the ultimate comfort combo. For a classic touch, crisp pickles or a cool cucumber salad make a nice contrast to the warm skillet flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re feeling a little playful, try spooning the Cabbage and Ground Beef into hollowed-out bell peppers and baking until bubbling, or use it as a filling for wraps or toasted pitas for a low-fuss lunch. It’s even tasty atop baked potatoes or scooped into lettuce cups.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. Cabbage and Ground Beef keeps well for up to 4 days, and the flavors deepen as it sits—making tomorrow’s lunch taste even better.
Freezing
This dish is an excellent freezer candidate! Let it cool, portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, and stash for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, and you’ll have a speedy meal ready when you need it most.
Reheating
For best texture, reheat Cabbage and Ground Beef gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. The microwave works in a pinch, too—just cover and stir occasionally to make sure it heats evenly.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Both ground turkey and chicken work beautifully if you want something a bit lighter. Just watch your seasoning and perhaps add a drizzle of extra olive oil, since these meats are naturally a little leaner than beef.
Is this recipe low-carb and keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs with the tomatoes included. For even fewer carbs, skip the tomatoes and add more seasonings and extra broth for moisture. It’ll still taste fantastic!
Do I have to use smoked paprika?
Smoked paprika gives the dish a subtle depth, but if you only have regular paprika (or even a pinch of chili powder), use that instead. Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your family’s tastes.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Bell peppers, carrots, or even zucchini are great additions. Just chop them small and add with the cabbage so they cook through perfectly.
Is Cabbage and Ground Beef good for meal prep?
This is one of my top meal prep picks! It reheats like a dream, and the flavors only get better as it sits. Make a double batch for easy lunches or quick weeknight dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
There’s something endlessly comforting about a pan of Cabbage and Ground Beef, especially when you know dinner can come together so easily. I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your table as it’s brought to mine—give it a try, and watch it become one of your go-to favorites, too!
Print
Cabbage and Ground Beef Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious recipe for Cabbage and Ground Beef, a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 small head green cabbage (chopped)
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juice)
Seasonings:
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Additional:
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water (as needed for moisture)
Instructions
- Cook Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet, add ground beef, and cook until browned.
- Add Aromatics: Add onion and garlic, cook until softened.
- Incorporate Cabbage: Stir in chopped cabbage and cook until wilted.
- Season and Simmer: Add tomatoes, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer covered until cabbage is tender.
- Adjust and Serve: Taste for seasoning, adjust if necessary, and serve hot.
Notes
- You can add cooked rice or serve over mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
- For a lower-carb version, skip the tomatoes and add more spices and broth.
- Ground turkey or chicken works well as a substitute for beef.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
