This dish brings together ground beef and tender cabbage, creating a deliciously satisfying meal that’s perfect for those hectic weeknights when you want something nourishing without spending hours in the kitchen. It reminds me of the chilly evenings when my mom would make something similar, filling our home with such comforting aromas that even the pickiest eater would come to the dinner table. Those are the kinds of meals I strive to recreate.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or just for yourself, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also budget-friendly. With just a handful of ingredients, you can have a warm meal ready in about half an hour. Perfect for busy moms, working couples, or anyone looking to get dinner on the table without too much fuss!
I encourage you to give this recipe a try. It’s delicious, satisfying, and the best part is, you can customize it to your liking! Let’s dive into how to make this wonderful dish that is sure to become a staple in your home like it is in mine.
How to Make Cabbage and Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 1 can diced tomatoes (15oz)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 small cabbage (chopped)
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1 tbsp bouillon powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt (to taste)
Directions
Start by heating a large skillet or a cast-iron pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks until it develops a nice brown color.
Once the beef is browned, move it to one side of the skillet. On the other side, toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook these until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes along with the smoked paprika, cumin, bouillon powder, cayenne pepper, and a sprinkle of salt. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
Now, it’s time to add the chopped cabbage. Stir everything well to combine, then cover the pan with a lid. Let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender — usually about 10 to 12 minutes.
Storing Suggestion
To store leftovers, allow the Cabbage and Ground Beef to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cooking Tips
If you want to ramp up the flavor, consider adding some chopped bell peppers or carrots to the mix. You can also use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to beef. For a smoky kick, consider adding a bit of chipotle pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley or grated cheese for added flavor. Pair it with crusty bread, a simple salad, or steamed rice for a complete meal. A glass of iced tea or a light red wine complements this dish beautifully!
Ingredient Substitutions
Instead of ground beef, you can substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. If you don’t have bouillon powder, you can use chicken or vegetable broth instead.
Seasonal Variations
This recipe is versatile! In spring, you can add in fresh peas or asparagus. In the fall, consider adding diced squash or sweet potatoes for a heartier variation. You can also integrate seasonal spices to match the time of year.
Allergen Information
This dish is gluten-free as long as you ensure that the bouillon powder is certified gluten-free. For dairy-free needs, omit any cheese garnishing. If you have a garlic allergy, you can skip the garlic or use garlic oil for flavor.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cabbage in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cabbage, but it may release more moisture than fresh cabbage. Adjust the cooking time slightly, as frozen cabbage may cook faster.
How do I know when the cabbage is tender?
The cabbage is tender when it can be easily pierced with a fork. You want it to have a slight crunch but be soft enough to enjoy. This typically takes about 10 to 12 minutes of cooking.
What can I serve with Cabbage and Ground Beef?
This dish pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or a simple side salad. You can also serve it over mashed potatoes for a comforting twist. A refreshing green salad would balance the meal perfectly.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep. You can make it a day or two ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and simply reheat it when you’re ready to eat. The flavors even improve with a little time together!
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Yes! Replace the ground beef with lentils or a plant-based alternative, and use vegetable broth instead of bouillon powder. The remaining ingredients remain the same for a satisfying vegetarian dish.
Can this recipe be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze Cabbage and Ground Beef. Make sure it’s completely cooled before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best results.
Cabbage and Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 1 can diced tomatoes (15oz)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 small cabbage (chopped)
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1 tbsp bouillon powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- salt to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, heat the ground beef over medium heat. 🍳
- Break the meat apart with a wooden spoon and cook until nicely browned.
- Push the beef to one side and add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the other side, sautéing until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes along with the smoked paprika, cumin, bouillon powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes. 🔥
- Add the chopped cabbage, stir well, and cover the skillet or pan. Cook until the cabbage is tender.
