Name: Cabbage and Ground Beef
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 small head of cabbage, chopped; 1 onion, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/4 cup beef broth (optional)

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If you’re in need of a quick, hearty, and budget-friendly meal, you’ve found a winner in this Cabbage and Ground Beef recipe! It’s a perfect balance of simplicity and comfort—plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes. With tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato base, this dish is sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Simple ingredients: You probably have most of these items in your pantry.
Quick to prepare: Perfect for busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table in a flash.
Healthy and satisfying: With a balance of protein and vegetables, it’s a filling meal without being heavy.
Customizable: Make it your own by adding extra veggies or spices!

What Does Cabbage and Ground Beef Taste Like?

This dish offers a cozy mix of flavors. The tender cabbage blends beautifully with the savory, browned beef and the slight acidity of diced tomatoes. The addition of garlic, paprika, and oregano gives it just the right amount of flavor without being overpowering. Every bite is hearty and full of warmth—perfect for any time of the year.

Benefits of Cabbage and Ground Beef:

Affordable: Cabbage and ground beef are both budget-friendly ingredients.
Nutrient-packed: Cabbage is loaded with vitamins K and C, while ground beef provides a good source of protein and iron.
One-pan wonder: Fewer dishes to wash means more time to relax after dinner!
Low-carb option: Skip the bread or rice for a satisfying, low-carb meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

1 lb ground beef
1 small head of cabbage, chopped
1 onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1/4 cup beef broth (optional, for extra moisture)

Necessary Tools for Preparation:

Large skillet or sauté pan
Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
Chopping board and knife
Measuring spoons

Ingredient Additions and Substitutions:

Extra Veggies: Add in some bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for extra color and nutrients.
Spices: Want to turn up the heat? Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
Ground Turkey: Swap the beef for ground turkey to make a leaner version of this dish.
Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or cheddar on top adds a delicious, cheesy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and fully crumbled, about 5-7 minutes. If necessary, drain excess fat.
Season: Stir in the paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and beef broth if using. Mix well to combine.
Add the Cabbage: Toss in the chopped cabbage, stirring until everything is well mixed. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld.
Serve and Enjoy: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with your favorite side.

What to Serve with Cabbage and Ground Beef:

Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
Rice or Quinoa: A bed of grains makes this meal even more filling.
Mashed Potatoes: For an extra cozy comfort meal, serve with mashed potatoes.
Salad: A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette will complement the rich flavors of this dish.

Tips for Perfect Cabbage and Ground Beef:

Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: Keep an eye on the cabbage so it stays tender but not mushy.
Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh oregano or parsley on hand, toss some in for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Prep in Advance: You can chop the veggies ahead of time and store them in the fridge to save even more time during busy weeknights.

Storage Instructions:

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over low heat.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to develop. Simply store in the fridge and reheat when needed.

What kind of ground meat can I use?
Ground beef is traditional, but feel free to use ground turkey, pork, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute for a vegetarian version.

Is this a keto-friendly dish?
Yes! This meal is naturally low in carbs, especially if served without bread or grains. You can keep it keto-friendly by pairing it with cauliflower rice.

Conclusion:

There you have it—a simple, satisfying Cabbage and Ground Beef dish that’s perfect for a busy night. It’s flavorful, budget-friendly, and packed with nutritious ingredients. With minimal prep and clean-up, this is sure to become a go-to recipe in your home.

Looking for more beef-inspired recipes? Be sure to try these:

Let’s Get Social!

Tried this recipe? I’d love to see it! Leave a review or share a photo of your creation on Pinterest or Instagram using the hashtag #CabbageAndBeefBites.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 22g
Carbs: 15g
Fat: 20g

This recipe serves 4 hearty portions, perfect for feeding your family or meal-prepping for the week!