Simple Ground Beef and Cabbage Recipe with Freshly Chopped Cabbage

Benefits and Advantages of ground beef and chopped cabbage recipe

This ground beef and chopped cabbage recipe offers numerous benefits that make it ideal for a healthy, satisfying meal. Its straightforward preparation requires minimal ingredients and simple cooking steps, making it accessible for all skill levels, including busy home cooks. The blend of lean ground beef and fresh cabbage creates a balanced dish rich in protein and dietary fiber, which supports muscle health and aids digestion.

Additionally, the recipe is adaptable to various dietary preferences, including low-carb and keto-friendly diets, by reducing or omitting starchy sides. The natural flavors of the beef and cabbage are complemented without the need for heavy spices or additives, highlighting freshness and wholesomeness. Because it cooks relatively quickly about 20 to 30 minutes total it fits well into busy lifestyles. Its versatility to incorporate additional vegetables or swap ingredients broadens its appeal, making it a dependable, budget-friendly, and nutritious meal option.

Essential Ingredients for ground beef and chopped cabbage recipe

• 1 pound (about 450 g) lean ground beef (85/15 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
• 4 cups chopped cabbage (approximately half of a medium cabbage)
• 1 medium carrot, grated or julienned
• 1 medium to large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
• 3 tablespoons tomato sauce or tomato paste
• ½ cup (120 ml) beef broth or vegetable broth (or bouillon cube dissolved in water)
• 2 to 3 tablespoons vegetable oil for cooking
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1½ teaspoons paprika (regular or smoked) for seasoning
• Fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
• Optional: sour cream or plain yogurt for serving

These ingredients combine key nutrients and flavors that provide richness from beef and crisp freshness from cabbage. Plant-based or low-fat alternatives can be used to customize the recipe.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your ground beef and chopped cabbage recipe

You can tailor this ground beef and chopped cabbage recipe to meet different diets and ingredient availability:

• Vegetarian/Vegan options: Replace ground beef with plant-based crumbles, lentils, or finely chopped mushrooms to maintain texture and protein content.
• Lean protein alternatives: Swap ground beef with lean ground turkey or chicken for lower fat and calories.
• Oil variations: Use avocado oil or coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for flavor or dietary needs.
• Gluten-free: The basic recipe is naturally gluten-free, but ensure any additional sauces or seasoning blends are labeled gluten-free.
• Low-carb approach: Serve without starchy sides like rice or potatoes to keep carbs minimal.
• Extra vegetables: Add bell peppers, mushrooms, peas, or sweet potatoes to broaden nutritional content and variety.

These substitutions keep the recipe flexible and inclusive, allowing for enjoyment across dietary preferences while preserving taste and texture.

How to Prepare the Perfect ground beef and chopped cabbage recipe: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Heat the oil: Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil to a large skillet and warm over medium heat.
2. Sauté onions: Add chopped onions and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent and slightly soft.
3. Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic (if using) and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Cook ground beef: Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if desired and season with salt and pepper.
5. Add tomato sauce and broth: Stir in 3 tablespoons of tomato sauce or paste and ½ cup of broth. Let simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to build flavor.
6. Cook cabbage and carrot: Add 4 cups chopped cabbage and grated carrot. Season with salt, pepper, and 1½ teaspoons of paprika. Stir well, cover, and cook on low heat for 5 to 15 minutes based on desired cabbage tenderness, stirring occasionally.
7. Combine and finish: Return the cooked beef to the skillet if set aside earlier; mix thoroughly and cook to heat through.
8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top. Serve hot, optionally with a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt.

This methodical approach balances flavors and textures while keeping the process simple and adaptable for all kitchens.

For other quick and flavorful dinners, try my Garlic Parmesan Chicken recipe featured on the blog.

Advanced Tips and Variations

To enhance your ground beef and chopped cabbage recipe, try these useful tips and variations:

• Browning Meat Separately: Cook the ground beef in a separate pan until deeply browned to develop richer flavors before adding to the cabbage mixture.
• Spice it Up: Introduce spices like smoked paprika, cumin, chili flakes, or a dash of soy sauce for a flavorful twist.
• Extra Vegetables: Boost nutrition and color by adding diced carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas.
• Acidity Boost: A splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice added toward the end brightens the dish and aids digestion.
• Greens Substitution: Swap cabbage for kale, bok choy, or Swiss chard for a slightly different texture and nutrient profile.
• Low-Carb Serving: Serve over cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles instead of traditional rice or potatoes.

Experimenting with these variations keeps the dish fresh and accommodates varied taste preferences and dietary needs, while maintaining its nourishing core.

How to Store ground beef and chopped cabbage recipe: Best Practices

Proper storage helps retain the flavor and texture of your dish while keeping it safe to eat:

• Cool Promptly: Let cooked ground beef and cabbage cool to room temperature within two hours of cooking.
• Refrigeration: Transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate, where it will keep for 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze in suitable freezer-safe containers or bags with space left for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
• Avoid Repeated Reheating: Only reheat the portion you plan to consume to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Following these storage tips ensures your dish stays delicious and nutritious for future meals.

Nutritional Value of ground beef and chopped cabbage recipe

This ground beef and chopped cabbage recipe combines protein, fiber, and essential nutrients for a balanced meal:

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About ground beef and chopped cabbage recipe

Simple Ground Beef and Cabbage Recipe with Freshly Chopped Cabbage

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• Author: Isabella Hayes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Yield: 4 to 5 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

🥩 This Simple Ground Beef and Cabbage recipe is a quick, one-pan meal combining lean beef and fresh cabbage for a nutritious, protein-packed dish.
🥬 Perfect for busy weeknights, it offers a flavorful, low-carb option that pairs well with a variety of sides.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 pound (about 450 g) lean ground beef (85/15 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
Half of a medium cabbage (about 4 cups chopped), chopped into thick strips or shredded
1 medium carrot, grated or julienned
1 medium to large onion, chopped
3 tablespoons tomato sauce or tomato paste
½ cup (120 ml) beef broth or vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
1½ teaspoons paprika (regular or smoked)
2 to 3 tablespoons vegetable oil for cooking
2 garlic cloves, minced (optional)
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish
Sour cream or plain yogurt for serving (optional)

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Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and golden (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat and set beef aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté onions until translucent (3-4 minutes). Add grated carrot and cook until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in tomato sauce or paste and broth, then simmer for 2-3 minutes to develop flavor.
4. Add chopped cabbage, season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir well, cover, and simmer on low until cabbage reaches desired tenderness, about 5 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Return cooked ground beef to the skillet, mix thoroughly, and heat through.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs. Serve hot with optional sour cream or yogurt.

Notes

🍳 Use lean ground beef to prevent excess fat and watery texture.
🌈 Try red cabbage for a colorful twist and different flavor.
🥕 Add extra veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas for variety and nutrition.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-25 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Sautéing, Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 234
• Sugar: 1.9 grams
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Fat: 11.2 grams
• Saturated Fat: 3.2 grams
• Carbohydrates: 3.3 grams
• Protein: 28.4 grams
• Cholesterol: 81 mg

Keywords: Ground Beef, Cabbage, Simple, Quick