Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage is a quick, hearty, and nutritious dish that combines tender ground beef with sautéed cabbage, creating a savory meal full of flavor and texture. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish is simple to prepare, filling, and can be easily customized with different seasonings and ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage recipe is packed with savory flavors and offers a satisfying combination of protein and vegetables. The sweetness of sautéed cabbage complements the rich, savory beef, and it’s all made in one skillet, making it a quick and easy meal to prepare. It’s healthy, customizable, and sure to be a family favorite.

Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (can substitute with ground turkey or chicken)
1/2 medium onion, diced
3 cups cabbage, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil (or cooking oil of choice)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor)
1 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for a warm, earthy taste)
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
1/4 cup beef broth (or chicken broth)
1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for added tang)
Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)

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

Directions

Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 6-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Add the Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is softened and fragrant.
Sauté the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet, stirring to combine. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to soften.
Season the Dish: Stir in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. If desired, add the soy sauce and beef broth, then mix everything well. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Finish with Vinegar: For a touch of tang, add the apple cider vinegar (if using) and stir to combine.
Serve: Once everything is cooked to your liking, garnish with chopped parsley or green onions and serve hot. This dish pairs well with rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes, or can be enjoyed on its own for a low-carb meal.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy Ground Beef and Cabbage: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to add some heat to the dish.
Add Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini to the skillet for added nutrition and flavor.
Cabbage Stir Fry: For a stir-fried version, increase the heat and stir-fry the cabbage for a few more minutes until crispy edges form, adding more soy sauce for depth of flavor.
Cheesy Ground Beef and Cabbage: Add shredded cheese on top (cheddar, mozzarella, or a Mexican blend) during the last 2 minutes of cooking and allow it to melt for a creamy, cheesy finish.
Low-Carb/Keto Version: Serve the ground beef and cabbage on its own or with cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Ground Beef and Cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to bring back moisture. You can also microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of ground meat?

Yes! You can use ground turkey, chicken as a substitute for ground beef. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

2. Can I use frozen cabbage?

Frozen cabbage can be used, but fresh cabbage works best in this recipe as it maintains a better texture when sautéed. If using frozen cabbage, make sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture.

3. Can I add beans to this dish for extra protein?

Yes, adding beans such as black beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas can increase the protein content and make this dish even heartier.

4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and cook the dish ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and reheat before serving.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to use tamari instead of soy sauce if you need to ensure it’s completely gluten-free.

6. Can I make this recipe spicy?

Absolutely! You can add extra heat by incorporating red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce while cooking.

7. What should I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with a variety of sides, such as steamed rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or even a simple salad for a lighter meal.

8. How can I make this dish vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils, tofu, or tempeh.

9. Can I add more flavor with sauces?

Yes, you can add more flavor by drizzling the dish with soy sauce, hot sauce, or even a squeeze of lemon or lime juice for extra zest.

10. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can prepare the ground beef and cabbage in a slow cooker. Brown the beef first, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage is a simple, satisfying, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. The savory ground beef and tender cabbage are complemented by a variety of seasonings, and the dish is customizable to fit your taste preferences. With just a few ingredients, you can create a healthy, hearty meal that’s perfect for the whole family!