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Cabbage and Ground Beef

Cabbage and Ground Beef is a simple, hearty, and budget-friendly dish that brings together seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, and savory spices. This one-pan meal is ideal for busy weeknights, offering a flavorful and filling option that’s low-carb, comforting, and easy to make. With just a few ingredients, this dish is both nutritious and delicious.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Cutting Board
  • Knife
  • Spatula or wooden spoon

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef lean preferred
  • 1 small head of cabbage chopped (about 6-7 cups)
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste optional
  • 1 tbsp olive oil if needed
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin optional
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes optional, for heat
  • 1/4 cup beef broth or water if needed, to deglaze or steam
  • Fresh parsley for garnish optional

Instructions
 

  • Cook the ground beef:
  • In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary and set the beef aside.
  • Sauté the onions and garlic:
  • In the same skillet, add a drizzle of olive oil if needed. Sauté the diced onion over medium heat until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
  • Cook the cabbage:
  • Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Stir and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the cabbage starts to soften and wilt.
  • If the skillet looks dry, add 1/4 cup of beef broth or water to help the cabbage steam and cook down. Cover the skillet and let the cabbage continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
  • Add the seasonings and combine:
  • Stir in the paprika, garlic powder, cumin (if using), salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to coat the cabbage and onion with the seasonings.
  • Add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet, along with the diced tomatoes and tomato paste (if using). Stir everything together and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Serve:
  • Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Video

Notes

  • For a lower-fat version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
  • You can omit the tomatoes for a simpler, more classic flavor or keep them for a touch of sweetness and acidity.
  • This recipe can be modified by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
  • Cabbage and ground beef are great for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
  • Serve the dish as-is for a low-carb option, or pair it with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread for a heartier meal.
Keyword Cabbage and Ground Beef