Ground Beef and Cabbage – Easy Comfort Dinner

Ground beef and cabbage is a perfect weeknight dinner option when you want something hearty, simple, and full of flavor. This easy skillet meal comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy evenings. Utilizing lean ground beef and fresh cabbage, it provides a comforting taste with minimal prep.

Why You’ll Love It

This ground beef and cabbage recipe is deliciously filling and budget-friendly. It requires few ingredients and minimal clean-up while delivering a cozy meal perfect for the whole family. Plus, it’s low-carb and naturally gluten-free without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef – choose lean or regular based on preference
1 small head green cabbage, chopped – fresh and crisp
1 medium onion, diced – adds sweetness and depth
2 cloves garlic, minced – for aromatic flavor
2 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing
1 tsp smoked paprika – gives a subtle smoky warmth
1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper – season to taste
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – adds a gentle kick
1/4 cup beef broth or water – to help steam and soften the cabbage
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – adds color and freshness

Substitutions: Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter option. Use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian (and sub plant-based beef).

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until it’s soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add ground beef. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in chopped cabbage along with smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Pour in beef broth or water and stir to combine.
Cover the skillet and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm.

Expert Tips

Use a large skillet or sauté pan to cook everything evenly.
Don’t overcook the cabbage; it should remain slightly crisp to retain texture.
For more flavor, add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce.
This dish reheats well, making it great for meal prep.
Adjust seasoning after cooking to suit your taste.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until heated through.

Variations

Vegan: Swap ground beef for plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free. Ensure any added sauces are certified gluten-free.
Dairy-Free: No dairy ingredients are needed; safe for dairy-free diets.
Spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

FAQ

Can I use frozen cabbage for this recipe?: Yes, but fresh cabbage works best to maintain texture and flavor.
How do I know when the ground beef and cabbage is done?: The beef should be fully browned with no pink spots, and the cabbage should be tender but slightly crisp.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?: Absolutely. It stores well in the fridge and can be reheated with minimal quality loss.
What sides go well with ground beef and cabbage?: Serve alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or a light green salad for a complete meal.
Is Ground Beef and Cabbage low carb?: Yes, this dish is naturally low carb and keto-friendly without added sugars or grains.

Call to Action

Enjoyed this Ground Beef and Cabbage recipe? Please leave a comment below, rate the recipe, and share it with friends looking for easy and comforting meals. Don’t forget to explore more Easy Weeknight Dinners and classic Ground Beef Recipes on our site. For more cooking inspiration, visit Food Network or Simply Recipes.