Are you looking for a delicious, filling, and easy-to-make meal? The ground beef cabbage recipe could be just what you need! This dish combines the savory flavors of ground beef with the crisp freshness of cabbage, resulting in a hearty meal that’s perfect for any time of year. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this recipe is simple to prepare, nutritious, and full of flavor.
But why choose ground beef and cabbage? What makes this pairing so great? Let’s dive into the reasons why this dish should be a go-to in your weekly meal rotation.
Table of contents
- Introduction: Why Ground Beef and Cabbage Make a Perfect Pair
- The Benefits of Cooking with Ground Beef and Cabbage
- Key Ingredients in a Ground Beef Cabbage Recipe
- Step-by-Step Guide to Making Ground Beef Cabbage
- Conclusion: Why You Should Add Ground Beef Cabbage Recipe to Your Meal Rotation
- FAQs about Ground Beef Cabbage Recipes
Introduction: Why Ground Beef and Cabbage Make a Perfect Pair
Ground beef and cabbage might not seem like a classic pairing at first glance, but trust me—they are a match made in culinary heaven. Think about it: ground beef is rich in flavor, while cabbage has a mild, slightly sweet taste and a satisfying crunch. When combined, they balance each other perfectly.
Not only do they complement each other in terms of taste, but this combo is also super versatile. You can prepare it in a variety of ways, from stir-fries to soups to casseroles, making it suitable for any occasion. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or a dish for a special gathering, this meal checks all the boxes.
But the best part? It’s incredibly affordable and can be made in under an hour. So, whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is a lifesaver!
The Benefits of Cooking with Ground Beef and Cabbage
Nutritional Value of Ground Beef
Ground beef is not just delicious—it’s also packed with essential nutrients. It’s an excellent source of protein, which is crucial for muscle growth, tissue repair, and immune function. Plus, ground beef provides iron, which helps in oxygen transport within the body, making it great for energy levels.
Depending on the cut of ground beef you choose (like lean or regular), it can also provide healthy fats and vitamins like vitamin B12, which supports brain health and helps your body make red blood cells.
A 3-ounce serving of cooked ground beef typically contains:
- Calories: 250-350 (depending on fat content)
- Protein: 22-28 grams
- Fat: 15-25 grams
- Iron: 2.5 mg (about 15% of your daily value)
Health Benefits of Cabbage
Now, let’s talk about cabbage. This humble vegetable is often overlooked but packs a punch when it comes to health benefits. Cabbage is loaded with fiber, which supports digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. It also contains vitamin C, an antioxidant that boosts your immune system and helps your skin stay healthy.
In addition, cabbage is rich in vitamin K, which plays a key role in bone health by aiding in calcium absorption. And did you know that cabbage is also a good source of folate? This makes it a great vegetable for overall health and wellness.
A 1-cup serving of shredded cabbage provides:
- Calories: 22
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Vitamin C: 32% of your daily value
- Vitamin K: 22% of your daily value
Together, ground beef and cabbage form a nutrient-dense dish that’s both tasty and health-boosting.
Key Ingredients in a Ground Beef Cabbage Recipe
Now that we know the benefits of ground beef and cabbage, let’s dive into the essential ingredients that make this recipe shine. While you can get creative with your seasonings and additions, these basic ingredients are your starting point.
Ground Beef: Choosing the Right Cut for the Best Flavor
Ground beef is the star of this dish, so it’s important to choose the right cut. When it comes to ground beef, you have a variety of options: lean, extra-lean, or regular. For a balanced meal, lean ground beef (with about 10-15% fat) is usually the best choice. This gives you a good amount of flavor without being overly greasy.
If you’re looking for a healthier version, go for extra-lean ground beef, which contains around 5% fat. However, it may lack some of the richness that regular ground beef offers, so you might need to adjust your seasonings accordingly.
Cabbage: Different Types and Their Uses in Cooking
There are different types of cabbage, and each one brings something unique to the table. For this recipe, green cabbage is often the go-to, thanks to its mild flavor and crunchy texture. It’s also widely available and easy to work with.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you could try red cabbage for a pop of color or Napa cabbage, which has a more delicate, slightly sweeter taste. While the texture of Napa cabbage is softer, it still holds up well when cooked in a dish like this.
Other Essential Ingredients to Enhance Your Recipe
Aside from the ground beef and cabbage, there are a few other ingredients that can elevate your dish:
- Onions: They add depth and sweetness to the flavor profile.
- Garlic: A couple of cloves will give your dish a savory kick.
- Tomatoes: You can add diced tomatoes or tomato paste for a tangy richness.
- Spices and Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs like thyme or oregano are great additions. You can also use soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for a deeper umami flavor.
- Olive oil or butter: These fats are essential for sautéing the ground beef and veggies to perfection.
Table: Ground Beef Cabbage Recipe – Ingredients and Quantities
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground Beef (lean) | 1 lb (450g) |
| Cabbage (shredded) | 4 cups |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Tomatoes (diced) | 1 cup |
| Olive Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Soy Sauce (optional) | 1 tbsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | To taste |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Oregano (optional) | 1 tsp |
This table gives you a clear look at the ingredients you’ll need to make the dish. Of course, you can always modify the quantities based on your preferences or dietary needs.
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Step-by-Step Guide to Making Ground Beef Cabbage
Now that we know all about the benefits of ground beef and cabbage, and the ingredients we’ll need, it’s time to get cooking! Don’t worry—this is a simple, no-fuss recipe that’s perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. Whether you’re making dinner for the family or just yourself, this dish will be a hit! Let’s break down the steps:
Preparing the Ground Beef
The first thing you’ll want to do is brown the ground beef. Start by heating up a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil (or butter, if you prefer), and let it heat up for a minute. Once the pan is hot, add the ground beef and break it up with a wooden spoon or spatula.
Let the beef cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and no longer pink. As the beef cooks, it will release some fat, so you can choose to drain the excess fat if you like. However, leaving a little bit of fat can add flavor to your dish, so it’s up to you.
Once the beef is cooked through, season with salt, pepper, and your choice of spices. Paprika and oregano work wonders here, but feel free to get creative with garlic powder, onion powder, or even a splash of soy sauce for a savory kick.
Chopping and Preparing the Cabbage
While the beef is cooking, it’s a good time to prep the cabbage. If you’re using a head of green cabbage, remove the outer leaves and cut it into quarters. Then, slice the cabbage into thin strips or shreds—this makes it easier to cook and gives it a nice texture.
You can also use pre-shredded cabbage to save some time, but freshly chopped cabbage tends to have a better crunch. If you’re using Napa cabbage, you might want to chop it a little more roughly since it has a softer texture.
Now that your cabbage is ready, set it aside for the next step.
Cooking the Ground Beef and Cabbage Together
Once the ground beef is browned and seasoned, it’s time to add the cabbage to the skillet. Stir the cabbage into the beef mixture and let it cook for 5-7 minutes, or until it starts to wilt and soften. You want the cabbage to remain a little bit crunchy, so don’t overcook it.
You can add a splash of water, broth, or even a little tomato paste at this point to create a little steam and help cook the cabbage more evenly. Stir everything together so the flavors meld, and cook for another 5 minutes. Taste it to see if you need any more seasoning—sometimes a little extra salt, pepper, or even a dash of soy sauce can really bring out the flavors.
Once the cabbage is tender but still has some bite to it, your ground beef cabbage is ready to serve!
Popular Variations of Ground Beef Cabbage Recipe
While the basic ground beef cabbage recipe is already a delicious dish, there are a ton of fun ways to switch it up! Whether you’re craving something different or trying to use up ingredients you already have, these variations will help you make this recipe your own.
Classic Ground Beef Cabbage Stir-Fry
A quick and easy variation of the ground beef cabbage recipe is a stir-fry. Instead of simmering the cabbage with the beef, simply sauté the vegetables in the pan until they’re crisp-tender, and then stir in the browned beef. Add some soy sauce, ginger, and garlic to give it an Asian-inspired twist.
This version is perfect if you’re short on time but still want a tasty, satisfying meal. You can also throw in other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra crunch and flavor.
Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole
If you’re craving something more comforting, why not make a casserole? Layer the cooked ground beef and cabbage in a baking dish, top with a little shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella works great!), and bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
This variation is perfect for those cold nights when you want something warm, cheesy, and satisfying. Plus, it’s great for meal prepping, as you can make it ahead of time and heat it up later.
Ground Beef Cabbage Soup or Stew
For a hearty and filling soup, turn your ground beef cabbage dish into a stew! Instead of just sautéing the cabbage with the beef, add beef or vegetable broth to the pan and simmer it all together for a cozy, comforting soup.
You can throw in additional veggies like potatoes, carrots, or celery to make it even more nutritious. A little bay leaf and thyme can add depth to the flavor, making this a perfect dish for the colder months.
Table: Ground Beef Cabbage Recipe – Cooking Instructions
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add olive oil. |
| 2 | Brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Season with salt, pepper, and spices. |
| 3 | Shred or chop the cabbage into thin strips. |
| 4 | Add the cabbage to the cooked ground beef and stir well. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the cabbage starts to soften. |
| 5 | Optional: Add a splash of water, broth, or tomato paste to steam the cabbage. |
| 6 | Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot! |
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Conclusion: Why You Should Add Ground Beef Cabbage Recipe to Your Meal Rotation
The ground beef cabbage recipe is a healthy, affordable, and versatile dish perfect for any meal rotation. Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a filling, nutritious option that’s easy to make. Whether you prefer it as a casserole, stir-fry, or soup, it’s customizable to fit your cravings. Add it to your weekly menu for a meal that’s simple, satisfying, and always delicious!
FAQs about Ground Beef Cabbage Recipes
1. What are some easy cabbage and ground beef recipes?
Easy cabbage and ground beef recipes include stir-fries, casseroles, and sautés. Simply brown the ground beef, season it with spices, and add shredded cabbage to cook until tender. You can also add in ingredients like garlic, onions, or tomatoes for extra flavor.
2. Can I add potatoes to ground beef and cabbage recipes?
Yes! Adding potatoes makes the dish heartier. You can chop the potatoes into small cubes and add them to the skillet while cooking the cabbage, or you can layer them with the beef in a casserole for a comforting meal. Yukon gold or red potatoes are perfect choices.
3. What’s a hamburger cabbage casserole recipe?
A hamburger cabbage casserole combines ground beef, shredded cabbage, cheese, and seasonings, all baked together in the oven. Simply brown the beef, layer it with cabbage and cheese, and bake at 375°F (190°C) until the cheese is melted and golden. It’s an easy and filling dish!
4. How do I make southern fried cabbage with ground beef?
To make southern fried cabbage with ground beef, cook the beef with onions and garlic in a skillet. Then, add shredded cabbage, season with salt, pepper, and cajun seasoning, and sauté everything together until the cabbage is crispy and caramelized.
5. What is a layered cabbage and ground beef casserole?
A layered cabbage and ground beef casserole features layers of browned ground beef, shredded cabbage, and cheese, all baked together for a structured, comforting dish. You can also add tomato sauce or cream of mushroom soup between layers for extra moisture and flavor.