Cabbage and Ground Beef Recipe
Introduction
Cabbage and Ground Beef is a hearty, comforting, and budget-friendly dish enjoyed by families around the world. Combining tender cabbage with flavorful ground beef creates a nutritious meal that is easy to prepare and satisfying enough for lunch or dinner. This one-pan recipe is packed with protein, vegetables, and delicious seasonings, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Whether served on its own or with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread, this classic recipe delivers rich flavors and wholesome goodness in every bite.
History
The combination of cabbage and beef has deep roots in European, Eastern European, German, Irish, and American home cooking. Cabbage has long been valued because it stores well during cold winters, while ground beef became an affordable protein choice in the 20th century.
Over time, countless variations developed around the world, incorporating local herbs, spices, tomatoes, rice, and cheeses. Today, cabbage and ground beef remains a beloved comfort food thanks to its affordability, versatility, and nutritional value.
Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Serving)
Servings: 6
- Calories: 340 kcal
- Protein: 26 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Iron: 18% Daily Value
- Vitamin C: 70% Daily Value
- Vitamin K: 95% Daily Value
- Folate: 15% Daily Value
- Potassium: 620 mg
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1½ pounds (680 g) lean ground beef
- 1 medium green cabbage, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Equipment
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
- Serving bowls
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles.
Drain excess grease if necessary.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Add onion, carrots, and bell pepper.
Cook for about 5 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 3: Add Flavor
Mix in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.
Add diced tomatoes and beef broth.
Stir well.
Step 4: Season
Add:
- Salt
- Pepper
- Paprika
- Smoked paprika
- Italian seasoning
- Thyme
- Oregano
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
Mix thoroughly.
Step 5: Add the Cabbage
Gradually add chopped cabbage.
It may seem like a lot at first, but it will shrink as it cooks.
Stir frequently.
Step 6: Simmer
Cover the skillet.
Reduce heat to low.
Cook for 20–25 minutes until the cabbage becomes tender.
Step 7: Finish
Taste and adjust seasoning.
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top before serving.
Cooking Methods
One-Pan Method
Everything cooks in one skillet for easy cleanup.
Dutch Oven Method
Perfect for deeper flavor and slow simmering.
Slow Cooker Method
Brown the beef first.
Transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker.
Cook:
- Low: 6–7 hours
- High: 3–4 hours
Instant Pot Method
Use the sauté function to brown the beef.
Pressure cook for 8 minutes.
Allow a natural release for 10 minutes.
Oven-Baked Method
Transfer the cooked mixture to a casserole dish.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.
Top with shredded cheese if desired.
Variations
Low-Carb Version
Skip the carrots and tomatoes for fewer carbohydrates.
Spicy Version
Add jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce.
Cheesy Version
Top with shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese.
Rice Version
Mix in cooked rice for a complete one-dish meal.
Keto Version
Use higher-fat ground beef and avoid tomato products with added sugar.
Healthy Version
Choose extra-lean ground beef or substitute ground turkey.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Buttered mashed potatoes
- Steamed rice
- Garlic bread
- Dinner rolls
- Egg noodles
- Roasted potatoes
- Fresh green salad
- Pickles
Storage
Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.
Why People Love This Recipe
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- High in protein
- Rich in vitamins and minerals
- Comforting and filling
- Easy one-pan meal
- Perfect for meal prep
- Family-friendly
- Customizable with different vegetables and spices
- Freezer-friendly
- Delicious leftovers
Tips for Success
- Use fresh green cabbage for the best texture.
- Brown the beef well to develop rich flavor.
- Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking.
- Add fresh herbs at the end for a brighter taste.
- Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving so the flavors meld together.
Conclusion
Cabbage and Ground Beef is a timeless comfort meal that combines simple ingredients into a flavorful and nourishing dish. Its rich beef, tender cabbage, and savory seasonings create a satisfying dinner that’s easy to prepare, economical, and perfect for families. Whether cooked in a skillet, slow cooker, oven, or Instant Pot, this recipe is versatile enough to suit any kitchen and is sure to become a favorite you’ll return to again and again.