If you’re craving a meal that’s equal parts comforting, hearty, and easy to throw together, look no further than this Cabbage and Ground Beef recipe. This one-pan wonder brings together savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and a medley of vibrant flavors in a way that’s both nostalgic and fresh. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, transforming humble ingredients into something truly memorable. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch, Cabbage and Ground Beef is one of those dinners that hits the spot every single time.

Cabbage and Ground Beef Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This dish proves that a handful of simple, familiar ingredients can create something extraordinary. Each ingredient plays its own essential role, from adding depth of flavor to boosting nutrition and color—so don’t skip any!

Ground beef (1 lb): The heart of the dish, bringing savory richness and protein to every bite.
Onion, diced (1 small): Adds sweetness and a subtle bite that rounds out the flavors.
Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Gives the entire skillet a fragrant, mouthwatering aroma.
Green cabbage, chopped (1/2 head, about 6 cups): The star vegetable, turning tender and sweet as it cooks.
Diced tomatoes, undrained (1 can, 14.5 oz): Provides juiciness, tang, and a pop of color.
Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
Paprika (1 teaspoon): Offers subtle warmth and earthiness.
Dried oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a classic herbaceous touch to balance the dish.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for drawing out all the savory flavors.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle kick and depth.
Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who love a hint of heat.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon, if needed): Keeps things from sticking and adds a touch of richness if the pan is dry.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional): A bright, fresh finish that makes the dish pop.

How to Make Cabbage and Ground Beef

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion

Start by grabbing your favorite large skillet or Dutch oven and set it over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion together—this lets the onion soften and sweeten as the beef browns, infusing the meat with even more flavor. Stir occasionally, breaking the beef into crumbles, and cook for about 6 to 8 minutes. Once the beef is nicely browned and no longer pink, toss in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for just 30 seconds, until fragrant. If there’s excess fat, take a moment to drain it off for a lighter final dish.

Step 2: Add the Cabbage

Now it’s time for the cabbage to join the party! Stir in the chopped green cabbage, making sure it gets well mixed with the beef and onions. If your pan seems a little dry, don’t hesitate to add a drizzle of olive oil. Let everything cook together for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage will start to wilt down, becoming tender but still with a little bite—this is where it starts soaking up all those delicious flavors.

Step 3: Simmer with Tomatoes and Seasonings

Pour in the diced tomatoes, making sure to include all those flavorful juices, then add the tomato paste, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat. Stir everything together, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes. This is where the magic happens: the cabbage turns silky, the flavors meld, and your kitchen smells absolutely incredible. Don’t forget to lift the lid and stir now and then!

Step 4: Taste and Finish

After the simmer, give your Cabbage and Ground Beef a taste. Adjust the seasoning if you like—maybe a little more salt, or another sprinkle of black pepper. Serve it up hot, with a scattering of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Every bite is pure comfort!

How to Serve Cabbage and Ground Beef

Garnishes

No bowl of Cabbage and Ground Beef is complete without a lively garnish. Fresh chopped parsley adds a pop of green and a clean, herbal note that wakes up the whole dish. If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, a sprinkle of shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream can take things to the next level—think creamy, melty, and utterly satisfying.

Side Dishes

This skillet meal is wonderfully versatile, but it truly shines when paired with the right sides. Serve it over fluffy white rice, mashed potatoes, or even a thick slice of crusty bread to soak up all those saucy juices. For a lighter touch, try a crisp green salad on the side, or simple steamed veggies. It’s a meal that plays well with just about anything!

Creative Ways to Present

Change things up by stuffing the Cabbage and Ground Beef mixture into roasted bell peppers or hollowed-out baked potatoes for an eye-catching twist. Or, spoon it into lettuce cups for a low-carb, hand-held option. You can also serve it family-style in a big dish with plenty of garnishes on the side, letting everyone build their own perfect bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cabbage and Ground Beef keeps wonderfully! Let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often deepen and improve overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch even tastier.

Freezing

If you want to save some for a future busy weeknight, this dish freezes like a dream. Spoon portions into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the Cabbage and Ground Beef gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until hot. You can also use the microwave for convenience—just cover loosely and heat in one-minute bursts, stirring between each, until thoroughly warmed.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives that work beautifully in this recipe, though you might want to add a splash of extra olive oil for richness.

Is this Cabbage and Ground Beef dish low-carb?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and high in protein, making it a fantastic option for anyone watching their carb intake. Serve it on its own or with a low-carb side for a filling, guilt-free meal.

How spicy is this recipe?

The crushed red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth, but you can easily adjust the heat to your liking. Omit them for a milder version or toss in a bit more if you love spice.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You sure can! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative, or try cooked lentils for a hearty, vegetarian-friendly spin that still delivers big flavor.

What’s the best way to chop cabbage for this recipe?

Remove the tough core, then slice the cabbage into bite-sized pieces—aim for roughly 1-inch squares. This size cooks evenly and gives a lovely texture in every forkful of Cabbage and Ground Beef.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a cozy, satisfying dinner that’s sure to become a regular in your kitchen, give this Cabbage and Ground Beef a try. It’s simple, unfussy, and packed with flavor—just the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table. Enjoy every bite!

Cabbage and Ground Beef Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.8 from 21 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Cabbage and Ground Beef recipe is a hearty, flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner. Tender cabbage and juicy ground beef are simmered with tomatoes and aromatic spices, creating a delicious, low-carb dish packed with protein and fiber. Quick to prepare and easy to make on the stovetop, it’s an ideal recipe for families or meal prep that can be paired with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)

Canned Goods and Condiments

1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)

Spices and Seasonings

1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Garnish

Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Brown the Beef and Onion: In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook ground beef and diced onion until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 6–8 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Drain any excess fat if needed to reduce greasiness.
Cook the Cabbage: Add chopped cabbage to the skillet and stir to combine. If the pan is dry, add a tablespoon of olive oil to help with cooking. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to wilt and soften.
Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the can of diced tomatoes along with their juices, tomato paste, paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Mix everything well to blend the flavors.
Simmer Covered: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for 10–15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld together nicely.
Adjust Seasoning and Garnish: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning as necessary. Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of freshness and color.

Notes

Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for a more filling meal.
For extra depth of flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce during cooking.
Top with shredded cheese before serving for a creamy addition.
This recipe can be made in advance and reheated, as flavors improve over time.
Optional crushed red pepper flakes add a mild heat but can be omitted for a milder dish.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American