This Ground Beef and Cabbage stir-fry is a perfect balance of savory flavors and hearty ingredients. The tender cabbage soaks up the rich flavors of the beef and seasonings, creating a satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
This recipe is not only easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile. You can add extra vegetables, like bell peppers or carrots, to enhance the flavor and nutrition. Plus, it’s a great choice for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet. Serve it on its own or with a side of cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Full Recipe:
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1 lb ground beef
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1 small onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 head green cabbage, chopped
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1/4 cup beef broth
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1 tablespoon soy sauce
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1/2 teaspoon black pepper
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon paprika
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1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions:
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In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks.
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Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until softened.
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Stir in the chopped cabbage, beef broth, soy sauce, pepper, salt, and paprika.
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Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage has softened and the flavors have melded together.
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Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction to Ground Beef and Cabbage
Ground Beef and Cabbage is one of those dishes that may not always get the limelight it deserves, but once you make it, it’s clear why it’s a timeless favorite. This hearty, easy-to-make meal is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly delicious. Ground beef provides a savory, protein-packed base, while cabbage adds a satisfying texture and a mild sweetness that perfectly balances the richness of the meat.
This dish offers everything you need in a satisfying meal: it’s quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and incredibly filling. Whether you are looking to whip up a weeknight dinner or need something that’ll keep you going through a busy day, Ground Beef and Cabbage hits all the right notes. And with just a handful of ingredients, it’s both accessible and flexible, allowing you to adapt it to your personal tastes and dietary preferences.
Why Ground Beef and Cabbage Work So Well Together
You might be wondering how ground beef and cabbage make such a great pairing. It might not be as glamorous as some of the more elaborate dishes out there, but the combination of beef and cabbage is nothing short of magical.
The richness of the ground beef brings an earthy, savory depth to the dish. As the beef browns and cooks, it develops a caramelized flavor that infuses the entire skillet. On the other hand, cabbage, while mild and subtle in taste, has a natural sweetness and a slight bitterness that provides balance. When sautéed together, the cabbage wilts down, soaking up the beef’s juices and seasoning, creating a wonderful harmony of flavors.
Cabbage itself is highly nutritious, offering vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. When paired with ground beef, it creates a well-rounded meal that’s not only satisfying but also full of beneficial nutrients. The dish is naturally low in carbs, making it a great option for those looking to eat healthier or follow specific diets like keto or low-carb.
Health Benefits of Ground Beef and Cabbage
Although Ground Beef and Cabbage is a simple dish, it packs a punch in terms of health benefits. Both ingredients are nutrient-dense, providing a variety of essential vitamins and minerals.
Ground beef, especially lean cuts, is a great source of high-quality protein, which is crucial for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health. Additionally, it contains B vitamins, particularly B12, which supports energy levels and nervous system health. Iron and zinc, both found in ground beef, are also essential for maintaining healthy blood cells and a strong immune system.
Cabbage, on the other hand, is an underappreciated superfood. Not only is it low in calories, but it’s also packed with fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. Cabbage is also rich in vitamin K, which supports bone health, and vitamin C, which plays a key role in boosting the immune system and acting as an antioxidant.
When combined, ground beef and cabbage create a well-balanced meal that offers both protein and essential nutrients, making it a great choice for anyone looking to fuel their body without compromising on taste.
Customization and Variations
What’s fantastic about this recipe is how easy it is to adapt. The base of ground beef and cabbage is simple and delicious, but you can easily change it up to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:
Add Extra Vegetables
While cabbage is the star of this dish, feel free to add other vegetables to enhance the flavor and texture. Bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini are great additions that will not only improve the taste but also boost the nutritional content of your meal. You can also throw in some leafy greens like spinach or kale for an extra dose of vitamins and minerals.
Spice It Up
If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding chili flakes, fresh jalapeños, or a drizzle of sriracha. Spices like cumin or coriander can bring a warm, earthy flavor, while smoked paprika can add a depth of smokiness to the dish. Experiment with different seasonings to find what works best for your palate.
Swap the Meat
While ground beef is the traditional choice, there are plenty of ways to mix things up. Ground turkey or chicken are lighter alternatives if you’re looking to reduce the fat content, while ground pork will lend a slightly sweeter flavor. For a plant-based version, you could swap in lentils or a meat alternative like Beyond Meat for a vegan twist.
Make It Keto-Friendly
Ground Beef and Cabbage is already a great option for those on a low-carb or keto diet, as it contains no starchy carbs like potatoes or rice. If you’d like to make it even more keto-friendly, simply serve it with cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice or mashed potatoes. This keeps the meal low in carbs while still satisfying your cravings for a hearty, savory dish.
Experiment with Sauces and Seasonings
The beauty of this dish is that you can play around with the flavor profile. Soy sauce and paprika work wonderfully, but adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar can elevate the depth of flavors. For a creamy finish, top your dish with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. It’s simple to make this dish as flavorful as you want!
Serving Suggestions
Ground Beef and Cabbage is a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides. For a classic comfort food experience, serve it with mashed potatoes or over a bed of steamed rice. If you’re looking to keep the meal lighter, roasted vegetables or a simple side salad would complement it beautifully.
If you’re on a low-carb or keto diet, serve it with cauliflower rice, a cauliflower mash, or even sautéed greens to keep the dish low in carbs while still providing the satisfaction of a complete meal.
Storage and Meal Prep
One of the best things about this dish is how well it stores and reheats. After cooking, simply allow the dish to cool, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. This makes it an excellent option for meal prep, as you can cook a batch at the start of the week and enjoy it throughout the week.
If you want to freeze the dish for later, portion it out into freezer-safe containers. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Conclusion
Ground Beef and Cabbage is the epitome of comfort food made simple. It’s quick to prepare, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying. With a balance of savory ground beef and sweet, tender cabbage, this dish is perfect for busy nights when you want a healthy meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. And with its versatility, you can easily modify it to suit your tastes, making it a staple in your meal rotation.
This dish is perfect for those who want a delicious, low-carb, and budget-friendly meal that still hits all the flavor notes. Whether you’re preparing it for your family or meal prepping for the week ahead, Ground Beef and Cabbage will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.