Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Recipe

If you are craving a hearty, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this recipe featuring Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage is exactly what you need. Combining the savory richness of ground beef with the mild sweetness and satisfying crunch of chopped cabbage, this dish delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. It’s an easy-to-make, one-pan wonder that brings together simple ingredients into a beautiful, nourishing meal that your whole family will love. Whether you’re cooking on a busy weeknight or want something cozy to enjoy any day, this Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage recipe hits all the right notes without fuss.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each one playing a crucial role in building the flavor, texture, and appeal of this dish. From the fragrant spices to the fresh cabbage and rich ground beef, every element contributes something special to make this recipe truly shine.

• Ground beef (1 lb): The star protein that brings heartiness and richness to the dish.
• Green cabbage (½ head, shredded): Adds a gentle crunch and natural sweetness that balances the beef perfectly.
• Onion (1 medium, diced): Provides a subtle sweetness and depth as it softens and caramelizes.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with warm, aromatic flavors.
• Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps sauté the onions and garlic, adding a smooth base flavor.
• Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Offers an earthy, warm spice that complements the beef.
• Paprika (½ teaspoon): Adds a smoky undertone and a touch of color.
• Salt (½ teaspoon or to taste): Enhances all the natural flavors.
• Black pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a gentle hint of heat and complexity.
• Soy sauce (1 tablespoon, optional): Boosts umami depth for an extra layer of savoriness.
• Beef broth (1 cup, or water): Keeps the cabbage moist and infuses the dish with meaty flavor.
• Apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon, optional): Introduces a bright, tangy note to balance the richness.
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional): Adds a fresh burst of color and herbaceous aroma.

How to Make Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage

Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onions and cook them gently until they become soft and translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial because it draws out the sweetness in the onions. Then, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it briefly—just 30 seconds until fragrant—so it infuses the oil without burning.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up into bite-sized pieces as it cooks. Continue cooking until the meat is fully browned and no longer pink, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Carefully drain any excess fat if needed, keeping the skillet clean and ready for the next throws of flavor.

Step 3: Spice Things Up

Sprinkle the ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper over the beef. Stir everything together so the spices coat the meat evenly, giving the dish a warm, inviting aroma and a boost of flavor that will marry beautifully with the cabbage.

Step 4: Add the Cabbage and Broth

Now, fold in the shredded cabbage, spreading it evenly throughout the beef mixture. Pour in the beef broth to provide moisture and to help the cabbage soften and mellow out. Mix everything together well to ensure every bit of cabbage is nestled among the savory beef.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Cover the skillet with a lid and let the mixture cook on medium-low heat for 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. During this time, the cabbage will become tender and develop slight caramelization around the edges, adding a subtle sweetness and texture contrast that truly elevates the dish.

Step 6: Final Flavor Boost

Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, stir in the optional soy sauce and apple cider vinegar. These ingredients add layers of umami and a tangy brightness that lift the flavors and keep the dish exciting. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if you want to personalize the flavor.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve Hot

Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top if you like. The fresh herb adds a lovely pop of color and a hint of brightness to each bite. Serve immediately for a satisfying, wholesome meal made entirely in one pan.

How to Serve Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a natural choice to brighten the dish, but you can also consider a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to add a bit of zing. A dollop of sour cream can add creaminess, making each bite extra comforting.

Side Dishes

This dish works wonderfully as a standalone meal, but if you’d like to round it out, serve it alongside fluffy mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or even a simple cucumber and tomato salad. These sides bring complementary textures and flavors, enhancing the whole dining experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, you can stuff the Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage mixture into cooked bell peppers or large mushroom caps and bake them for a stuffed veggie delight. Alternatively, spoon the mixture over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option that still delivers on taste.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness and safety.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep the cabbage tender and the beef flavorful.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. You can also reheat in the microwave, covered to retain steam, stirring halfway through to evenly warm.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative that pairs nicely with cabbage. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since turkey tends to cook faster and can dry out if overcooked.

What if I don’t have beef broth?

You can easily substitute with water or vegetable broth. While beef broth adds extra savory depth, water will work fine, especially if you season the dish well.

Is this recipe spicy?

No, this dish is generally mild with warm spices like cumin and paprika. However, you can spice it up by adding chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer some heat.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Feel free to add diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture. Just add them when you sauté the onions so they have time to soften.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and ensure your beef broth is gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish easy to adapt.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a flavorful, fuss-free recipe to add to your dinner rotation, you really can’t go wrong with Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage. Its comforting textures, deliciously balanced flavors, and straightforward preparation make it a true weeknight hero. I hope you try this recipe soon and discover how easy and satisfying cooking with simple ingredients can be!

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