Ground Beef with Cabbage is the ultimate one-pan meal, where juicy ground beef meets tender cabbage, all seasoned to perfection. The beef provides rich, savory flavors, while the cabbage softens and absorbs the delicious spices, creating a harmonious and comforting dish.
This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want a healthy, satisfying meal with minimal cleanup. It’s also easily adaptable to fit your taste—add more seasonings or even toss in extra veggies. The earthy flavors of this dish make it an ideal choice for meal prepping, and it can be served as is or paired with rice or mashed potatoes for an extra hearty meal.
Full Recipe:
-
1 lb ground beef
-
1 medium onion, chopped
-
1 clove garlic, minced
-
1/2 head of cabbage, shredded
-
1 tablespoon soy sauce
-
1 teaspoon salt
-
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
1/2 cup beef broth
-
1 teaspoon paprika
-
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Directions:
-
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
-
Add ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is tender.
-
Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
-
Add shredded cabbage, beef broth, soy sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Stir to combine.
-
Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
-
Stir occasionally, and adjust seasoning to taste.
-
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction
Ground Beef with Cabbage is a hearty, comforting dish that combines the rich flavor of ground beef with the mild sweetness of cabbage. This meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a delicious, nutritious, and filling option that doesn’t require too much time or effort to prepare. It’s a classic dish that’s been passed down through generations, making it an ideal addition to any home cook’s repertoire. The dish is simple yet flavorful, making it suitable for any occasion, whether you’re looking for a cozy family meal or something quick to prepare for a week of meal prep.
A Flavorful Combination
The beauty of Ground Beef with Cabbage lies in its simplicity. Ground beef is known for its rich, savory flavor, while cabbage adds a light, slightly sweet note that perfectly balances the richness of the beef. The cabbage also brings a pleasant texture, softening as it cooks while still retaining a slight crunch. This combination creates a flavorful and satisfying dish that works wonderfully on its own, but can also be paired with a variety of side dishes such as rice, mashed potatoes, or even a side salad to round out the meal.
The Origins of Ground Beef with Cabbage
While this dish may seem like a simple comfort food, its origins are rooted in traditional cooking, especially in countries where cabbage and beef are common staples. Ground Beef with Cabbage is often seen as a variation of other cabbage-based meals found in many cultures, such as corned beef and cabbage, a classic Irish dish traditionally served on St. Patrick’s Day. Cabbage itself is a vegetable that has been cultivated for centuries and has long been used in various cuisines around the world due to its versatility, affordability, and ability to store well during the winter months.
This dish can also be traced back to Eastern European roots, where cabbage is a key ingredient in many hearty, rustic meals. It has been a staple in many homes for generations due to its affordability and long shelf life. Ground beef, a more modern addition, gives the dish a boost of protein and flavor, making it even more satisfying and suitable for a balanced meal.
Why You Should Make Ground Beef with Cabbage
One of the best aspects of Ground Beef with Cabbage is how easy it is to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients, this dish can be made in one pan, making clean-up a breeze. It’s an ideal option for those looking to get dinner on the table quickly without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.
Moreover, this dish is highly customizable. You can adjust the seasonings and add other vegetables or spices to suit your personal preferences. Whether you prefer a more robust, spicy flavor or something milder, you can easily tweak the recipe to your taste. Cabbage, with its mild flavor, can accommodate a wide range of seasonings, making this dish as versatile as it is delicious.
Health Benefits of Ground Beef and Cabbage
In addition to being flavorful, Ground Beef with Cabbage also offers a variety of health benefits. Ground beef is a great source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, producing enzymes and hormones, and supporting overall growth. It’s also rich in vitamins and minerals like iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are crucial for maintaining healthy blood cells, boosting the immune system, and supporting brain function.
Cabbage, on the other hand, is low in calories but high in fiber, making it a great choice for promoting digestive health and supporting weight management. It’s also packed with antioxidants, particularly vitamin C, which helps protect the body against oxidative stress and supports a healthy immune system. The cabbage’s natural fiber content can help keep you feeling full longer, making this dish a satisfying and nutritious option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
Meal Prep and Versatility
Ground Beef with Cabbage is an excellent choice for meal prep. The dish holds up well in the refrigerator, making it easy to store and reheat for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. It’s also versatile enough to be used as a base for other dishes. You could add a side of roasted vegetables, a dollop of sour cream, or sprinkle some shredded cheese on top to change up the flavor. If you’re looking to add a bit of spice, a dash of hot sauce or chili flakes would complement the dish perfectly.
For those following a low-carb or keto diet, this dish is an excellent option due to its high protein content and low carbohydrate count. Cabbage is a great low-carb vegetable that provides plenty of nutrients without the added sugars found in other vegetables. If you’re following a gluten-free or dairy-free diet, this dish can easily be adapted by making a few small adjustments to the ingredients and toppings.
Making Ground Beef with Cabbage Your Own
One of the great things about this dish is its adaptability. While the traditional version includes just ground beef and cabbage, you can add other ingredients to give it more depth and variety. For instance, adding carrots, bell peppers, or onions can introduce new textures and flavors that elevate the dish. A bit of garlic or ginger can also add a pleasant aromatic quality that complements the beef and cabbage.
If you’re looking for a more international twist, you can try adding soy sauce and a touch of sesame oil for an Asian-inspired flavor. A sprinkle of cumin or smoked paprika would bring a smokier, spicier edge to the dish, perfect for those who love bold flavors.
Pairing Suggestions
Ground Beef with Cabbage is a great main dish on its own, but you can pair it with several sides to create a well-rounded meal. If you prefer a light, refreshing side, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette would work beautifully. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes to complement the savory flavors of the beef and cabbage.
If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, serve the dish with cauliflower rice or quinoa instead of regular rice. Both options are low in carbs and provide a satisfying texture that complements the main dish without overpowering it.
Conclusion
Ground Beef with Cabbage is a simple, nutritious, and flavorful dish that can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of their cooking experience. It’s a great meal to add to your weekly rotation, whether you’re cooking for a busy family, meal prepping for the week, or simply looking for a quick and delicious dinner option. The dish is not only budget-friendly but also versatile enough to be customized with your favorite seasonings and vegetables. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, Ground Beef with Cabbage is a healthy meal that will leave you satisfied and nourished.
This dish is a wonderful way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals without sacrificing flavor, and it’s sure to become a go-to in your home. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, Ground Beef with Cabbage offers something for everyone. So, give it a try today, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this classic dish.