Ground Beef and Cabbage

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the ultimate comfort food. It’s made with everyday ingredients, comes together in under an hour, and can be customized with your favorite seasonings. The combination of beef and cabbage is not only delicious but also nutritious and filling, making it a great choice for families or meal prep. Plus, it’s naturally low in carbs, making it a smart option for those following keto or low-carb lifestyles.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef

• Green cabbage

• Onion

• Garlic

• Olive oil or butter

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Paprika (optional)

• Soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce (optional for extra flavor)

Directions

1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

3. Add chopped onion and garlic to the pan, cooking until softened and fragrant.

4. Stir in the chopped cabbage and season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.

5. Cover the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized, about 10–12 minutes.

6. Add soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce if desired, and stir well.

7. Taste and adjust seasonings before serving hot.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. Preparation takes 10 minutes, and cooking time is around 20 minutes, so the dish is ready in about 30 minutes.

Variations

• Add diced carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra vegetables.

• Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef for a lighter version.

• Spice it up with crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

• Stir in a can of diced tomatoes for a saucier version.

• Sprinkle with shredded cheese just before serving for added richness.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?

Yes, red cabbage works just as well, though it has a slightly stronger flavor and will change the dish’s color.

Do I need to drain the beef after cooking?

If your ground beef has a high fat content, it’s best to drain the excess grease for a lighter dish.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats very well, making it great for meal prep.

What seasonings go best with ground beef and cabbage?

Garlic, onion, paprika, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and red pepper flakes all pair beautifully with this dish.

Is this recipe low carb?

Yes, it is naturally low in carbs, especially when made without added sauces or starches.

Can I make it vegetarian?

You can swap the beef for plant-based ground meat alternatives or even lentils.

How can I make it more filling?

Serve it over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes to make it a heartier meal.

Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes, shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan make a delicious topping.

How do I prevent the cabbage from becoming mushy?

Cook the cabbage until just tender and avoid overcooking. Stir occasionally and remove from heat once it reaches the desired texture.

Can I freeze cooked cabbage and beef together?

Yes, this dish freezes well. Store in freezer-safe containers and reheat after thawing.

Conclusion

Ground beef and cabbage is a quick, comforting, and versatile dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a flavorful meal that’s both budget-friendly and satisfying. Whether you enjoy it plain, with added vegetables, or spiced up with bold flavors, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

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