When it comes to wholesome, budget-friendly meals, it’s hard to beat the classic combination of ground beef and chopped cabbage. This simple yet flavorful dish is a true crowd-pleaser, offering a satisfying blend of protein, fiber, and savory goodness. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty comfort food option, ground beef and chopped cabbage is a recipe that deserves a spot in your regular meal rotation.
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The Nutritional Power of Ground Beef and Cabbage
Beyond its delicious taste, ground beef and chopped cabbage boasts an impressive nutritional profile. Ground beef is a excellent source of high-quality protein, essential vitamins, and minerals like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. Cabbage, on the other hand, is a nutrient-dense vegetable packed with fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants that support overall health. Together, these ingredients create a well-balanced and nourishing meal that will keep you feeling satisfied and energized.
Ingredients for the Perfect Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small head cabbage, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon cumin or chili flakes for added flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions for Delicious Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage
Preparing this ground beef and chopped cabbage dish is a breeze, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful and satisfying meal:
- Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, making sure to break it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add Tomato Paste and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes. Next, add the paprika, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings like cumin or chili flakes.
- Incorporate the Cabbage and Beef Broth: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and pour in the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
- Serve and Enjoy: Adjust the seasoning to taste and serve the ground beef and chopped cabbage warm and ready to enjoy.

Tips and Variations for Delicious Ground Beef and Cabbage
While the basic ground beef and chopped cabbage recipe is a winner, there are plenty of ways to customize and enhance the dish to suit your taste preferences:
- Browning the Beef: For the best texture, be sure to brown the ground beef thoroughly, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other diced vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the skillet for extra color and nutrition.
- Flavor Boosters: Experiment with different seasonings like oregano, thyme, or red pepper flakes to create your own signature flavor profile.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the ground beef and chopped cabbage over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped fresh parsley for added flavor and texture.
The Health Benefits of Ground Beef and Cabbage
In addition to its delicious taste, the combination of ground beef and chopped cabbage offers numerous health benefits. Ground beef is a rich source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall bodily function. Cabbage, on the other hand, is a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support immune function, heart health, and digestive well-being.
The fiber content in cabbage also helps to promote feelings of fullness and regular bowel movements, making this dish a satisfying and nutritious choice. Whether you’re looking to maintain a balanced diet or simply enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal, ground beef and chopped cabbage is a winning combination.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Cheesy Penne with Garlic Butter Ground Beef
- Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta
- Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I do with cabbage and ground beef?
With cabbage and ground beef, you can create a variety of delicious dishes! Besides the classic ground beef and chopped cabbage skillet, you can use these ingredients to make cabbage roll casseroles, beef and cabbage stir-fries, or stuffed cabbage rolls. The versatility of these two ingredients allows you to explore a range of flavors and textures.
What spices enhance ground beef and cabbage?
Some spices that complement the flavors of ground beef and chopped cabbage include paprika, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano or thyme. Experimenting with different spice blends can help you discover your perfect flavor profile for this dish.
What meat pairs well with cabbage?
In addition to ground beef, other meats that pair exceptionally well with cabbage include ground pork, kielbasa or other smoked sausages, and even ground turkey. The savory, slightly sweet flavors of the cabbage complement a variety of protein sources, making it a versatile vegetable to incorporate into your meals.
What is a German dish with ground beef and cabbage?
A classic German dish that features ground beef and chopped cabbage is called Krautwickel or Kohlrouladen. This dish consists of seasoned ground beef or pork wrapped in cabbage leaves and simmered in a savory broth or tomato sauce. It’s a hearty and comforting meal that showcases the delicious pairing of these two key ingredients.
Enjoy the Delicious Combination of Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage
When it comes to creating wholesome, flavorful meals that the whole family will love, it’s hard to beat the classic combination of ground beef and chopped cabbage. With its nutritious ingredients, easy preparation, and endless possibilities for customization, this versatile dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. So, why not give it a try tonight and experience the delicious magic of these two humble ingredients coming together in perfect harmony?
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Enjoy a Hearty Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Description
Ground beef and chopped cabbage is a simple yet flavorful dish that offers a satisfying blend of protein, fiber, and savory goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small head cabbage, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon cumin or chili flakes (optional)
Instructions
1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, making sure to break it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add Tomato Paste and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes. Next, add the paprika, salt, pepper, and any optional seasonings like cumin or chili flakes.
4. Incorporate the Cabbage and Beef Broth: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and pour in the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Adjust the seasoning to taste and serve the ground beef and chopped cabbage warm and ready to enjoy.
Notes
Feel free to add other diced vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the skillet for extra color and nutrition.
Experiment with different seasonings like oregano, thyme, or red pepper flakes to create your own signature flavor profile.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg