If you’re looking for a comforting, quick, and nutritious dish, cabbage and ground beef is a perfect choice. This meal combines the natural sweetness and crunchiness of cabbage with the rich, savory flavors of ground beef, all cooked in a blend of spices for an irresistible taste. Whether you’re craving something simple for dinner or looking for a dish that’s both filling and affordable, this cabbage and ground beef recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen. It’s also a great option for meal prepping, as it keeps well in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated.
This recipe brings together a few simple ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. The ground beef is browned to perfection, while the cabbage softens and absorbs all the delicious flavors from the spices and tomatoes. Whether you serve it as a main dish or as a side, this cabbage and ground beef combo is bound to be a hit.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you will need one small cabbage, chopped, one pound of ground beef, one can of diced tomatoes (15 oz), one cup of chopped onions, two cloves of garlic, minced, one tablespoon of bouillon powder, half a teaspoon of cumin, a quarter teaspoon of cayenne pepper, half a teaspoon of smoked paprika, and salt to taste.
Instructions
Start by heating a large pan or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add the ground beef. Use a wooden spoon to break up the beef into smaller pieces, cooking it until it is browned and fully cooked through. Once the beef is browned, push it to one side of the pan.
Next, add the chopped onions and garlic to the other side of the pan. Sauté them until the onions become soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Once the onions are softened, mix them with the ground beef.
Now, pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with the bouillon powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and salt. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil. Once it begins to boil, reduce the heat to medium-high and let it simmer for 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to combine and the spices to infuse into the beef and tomatoes.
After simmering, taste the mixture and adjust the salt if needed. Once you’re satisfied with the flavor, it’s time to add the chopped cabbage. Stir the cabbage into the mixture, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
Cover the pan and let the cabbage cook for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the cabbage cooks evenly and becomes tender. You want the cabbage to be soft but still slightly crisp, retaining its texture. Once it reaches the desired softness, remove the pan from the heat.
Serve the dish hot, and enjoy the savory combination of beef, tomatoes, and cabbage.
Tips
For extra flavor, try adding a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. This will enhance the natural sweetness of the cabbage and add a bit of brightness to the dish.
If you prefer a spicier version, you can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a finely chopped jalapeño pepper to the mix.
To make this dish even heartier, consider adding cooked rice or quinoa to the mixture. This adds some extra fiber and makes it a more filling meal.
Serving Suggestions
Cabbage and ground beef is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, pair it with mashed potatoes or rice. A simple green salad on the side can also balance out the richness of the beef and cabbage.
If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, serve the dish on its own or pair it with roasted vegetables.
Storage
This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Be sure to allow it to cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water if needed to prevent it from drying out.
If you want to store it for a longer period, this cabbage and ground beef dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it thoroughly.
FAQ
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to beef. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Carrots, bell peppers, and zucchini would be great additions. Simply chop them into small pieces and add them to the pan when you sauté the onions and garlic.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, you can add more cayenne pepper, chili powder, or even some fresh chopped chili peppers.
Conclusion
Cabbage and ground beef is a simple yet flavorful dish that combines comfort and nutrition in one hearty meal. With just a few ingredients and some basic seasoning, you can create a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you make it for a weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or for meal prep, this recipe is both satisfying and versatile. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s a favorite for so many home cooks.
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Cabbage and Ground Beef: A Hearty and Flavorful Meal
Description
Cabbage and Ground Beef is a savory, comforting dish made with tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a blend of spices, all simmered to perfection. Easy to make and full of flavor!
Ingredients
• 1 small cabbage, chopped
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
• 1 cup onions, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon bouillon powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ Heat a large pan over medium heat, add ground beef and brown.
2️⃣ Move beef to one side, add onions and garlic, and sauté until soft.
3️⃣ Add diced tomatoes, bouillon powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and salt. Stir and bring to a boil, then simmer for 5 minutes.
4️⃣ Taste and adjust salt if necessary.
5️⃣ Add chopped cabbage, stir, and cover. Cook until cabbage is tender, about 10-15 minutes.
6️⃣ Serve hot and enjoy!