Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage

When you’re looking for a quick, hearty meal that’s both satisfying and simple, Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage is your go-to recipe. Think tender ground beef with savory seasoning, all nestled in a bed of tender, sautéed cabbage. It’s the kind of meal that warms you up from the inside, leaving you feeling cozy and content. Bonus: it’s incredibly easy to make, budget-friendly, and full of flavor.

This is one of those dishes that hits the sweet spot between healthy and comforting. Whether you’re trying to eat lighter, or you’re simply looking for a fuss-free weeknight dinner, this recipe is a winner. It’s packed with protein and veggies, making it a wholesome, one-pan meal that the whole family will love.

Why You’ll Love Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage

Simple & Quick

This recipe is the definition of “easy.” All you need are a few pantry staples and some fresh cabbage, and you’re good to go. With just a little time and effort, you can have dinner on the table in 20 minutes.

Comforting Yet Light

Ground beef and cabbage might sound simple, but when cooked together, the flavors meld perfectly, creating a comforting, savory dish that doesn’t weigh you down. The cabbage adds a light crunch, while the beef brings richness, making it a perfect balance of textures.

Versatile & Customizable

This dish is incredibly adaptable. You can add spices to give it a little kick, or toss in extra veggies to make it even heartier. It’s also easy to make ahead, and leftovers taste just as good the next day!

Budget-Friendly

Using ground beef and cabbage makes this a great meal for families or anyone looking to stick to a budget. It’s affordable without skimping on flavor or satisfaction. You might already have everything you need in your pantry!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious and filling dish:

For the Ground Beef:

• Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for a healthier option, or go for a fattier blend if you want extra richness.
• Onion: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the dish.
• Garlic: Aromatic and savory, garlic is key to infusing the dish with flavor.
• Soy Sauce: Gives the beef a savory umami flavor.
• Spices: Salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes for some heat.

For the Cabbage:

• Cabbage: Green cabbage works best, but you can use red cabbage if you prefer.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the cabbage to tender perfection.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Adds a touch of tang to balance the richness of the beef.
• Vegetable or Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and flavor to the cabbage while it cooks.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 300
• Fat: 17g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Potassium: 500mg
• Calcium: 6% DV
• Iron: 15% DV

(Note: Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredient choices.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes

Instructions

Let’s get cooking!

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Brown the beef for 5-7 minutes until it’s fully cooked through, and drain any excess fat. Once the beef is cooked, transfer it to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In the same skillet, add a bit of olive oil. Toss in the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until they’re fragrant and softened. You’ll want the onions to turn translucent and golden.

Step 3: Cook the Cabbage

Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir well, and let the cabbage cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes (if you like a little heat).

Step 4: Combine the Beef and Cabbage

Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet with the cabbage. Pour in the soy sauce and apple cider vinegar, stirring to combine. Add the vegetable or chicken broth to help create some steam and give the cabbage extra flavor. Let everything simmer for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cabbage to become tender.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once the cabbage is tender and the flavors are all well combined, remove from heat and serve immediately. You can garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or green onions if you like!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage

Over Rice or Quinoa

For a more filling meal, serve this dish over steamed rice or quinoa. The rice soaks up all the delicious juices from the beef and cabbage, making every bite extra satisfying.

With a Side of Bread

Crusty bread or dinner rolls would make a great side for this dish. Use it to scoop up the tender beef and cabbage, or just to dip in the savory sauce.

As a Standalone Dish

This meal is hearty enough to stand on its own, so feel free to enjoy it as is—perfect for when you’re looking for something simple yet filling.

With a Fresh Salad

Pair it with a fresh, crisp salad to balance the richness of the beef. A light cucumber salad or a tangy coleslaw would complement the flavors beautifully.

Additional Tips

Customize the Vegetables

If you’re in the mood for more veggies, try adding carrots, bell peppers, or even some spinach to the mix. They’ll cook quickly and add even more flavor and nutrients to your dish.

Spice It Up

If you like things spicy, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce to the dish. The heat will bring out the flavors of the beef and cabbage even more.

Make It Ahead

This dish keeps well for leftovers. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might want to add a splash more broth to keep it moist.

Swap the Ground Beef

If you prefer a different protein, try ground turkey, chicken, or even pork as a substitute. These options will still give you that savory, hearty flavor, but with a lighter twist.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this recipe with a different type of meat?
A1: Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork are great alternatives to beef in this dish.

Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Yes, you can make this ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better the next day!

Q3: Can I add more vegetables?
A3: Of course! You can add carrots, bell peppers, or even zucchini to the dish. Just chop them into small pieces and sauté with the cabbage.

Q4: Can I make this dish spicier?
A4: Yes! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or even some chopped fresh chili for an extra kick.

Q5: Can I use frozen cabbage?
A5: Fresh cabbage is ideal, but you can use frozen cabbage if needed. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before cooking.

Q6: How do I store leftovers?
A6: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth if necessary.

Q7: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A7: Yes! You can easily substitute the ground beef with a plant-based protein like lentils or tofu for a vegetarian version.

Q8: Can I freeze this dish?
A8: Yes, this dish freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

Q9: Can I use a different type of vinegar?
A9: If you don’t have apple cider vinegar, white vinegar or rice vinegar will work well in this recipe.

Q10: What should I serve this dish with?
A10: You can serve this dish with rice, quinoa, a side of bread, or a light salad. It’s versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides!

Conclusion

Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage is a simple, comforting, and nutritious meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table. With just a few ingredients, you can create a hearty dish that’s flavorful and satisfying without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal, this recipe has got you covered. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors and the crisp cabbage, and don’t be surprised if this becomes a regular in your dinner rotation!

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