Enjoy Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage: A Quick and Delicious Meal!

Ground beef and chopped cabbage is a simple, yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal any time. This versatile combination of protein and vegetables offers a wealth of nutritional benefits, making it a go-to choice for health-conscious home cooks. Whether you’re looking to incorporate more veggies into your diet or you’re craving a comforting, budget-friendly meal, ground beef and chopped cabbage is a fantastic option that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Table of Contents

The Origins and Appeal of Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage

The pairing of ground beef and cabbage has deep roots in various cuisines around the world. From Eastern European dishes like golumpki (stuffed cabbage rolls) to traditional Irish corned beef and cabbage, this combination has long been a staple in many cultures. The reasons for its enduring popularity are simple: ground beef and chopped cabbage are both affordable, versatile ingredients that come together to create a hearty, flavorful meal.

Beyond its culinary history, ground beef and chopped cabbage offers a range of nutritional benefits. Beef is a excellent source of protein, iron, and other essential vitamins and minerals, while cabbage is a cruciferous vegetable packed with fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. Together, these ingredients create a well-balanced dish that can support overall health and well-being.

Ingredients for the Perfect Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Dish

  • 1 lb ground beef – Choose a lean ground beef for the best texture and flavor. Avoid overly fatty blends, which can result in a greasy final dish.
  • 1 small head cabbage, chopped – Select a fresh, crisp cabbage and chop it into bite-sized pieces for the best texture.
  • 1 medium onion, chopped – Onions add depth of flavor and help to balance the dish.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic enhances the overall savory profile of the dish.
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste – Tomato paste provides a subtle sweetness and helps to bind the ingredients together.
  • 1 cup beef broth – The beef broth adds moisture and enhances the beefy flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika – Paprika lends a warm, slightly smoky note to the dish.
  • Salt and pepper to taste – Proper seasoning is key to bringing out the best flavors.
  • Optional: cumin or chili flakes for added flavor – These spices can provide a delightful kick of heat and complexity.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage

Preparing ground beef and chopped cabbage is a straightforward process that comes together quickly. Follow these easy steps for a delicious, home-cooked meal:

  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 up the meat as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
  2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
  3. Add Tomato Paste and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Add the paprika, salt, pepper, and any optional spices, and mix well.
  4. Add Cabbage and Beef Broth: Toss the chopped cabbage into 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 but still has a slight bite.
  5. Serve: Adjust the seasoning to taste and serve the ground beef and chopped cabbage warm, either on its own or alongside your favorite side dishes.
Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage 30 Minutes Easy Delicious

Tips for Perfectly Cooking Ground Beef and Cabbage

To ensure your ground beef and chopped cabbage dish turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips:

  • Brown the Beef Properly: Make sure to cook the ground beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small crumbles as it cooks. This will help to develop a nice sear and rich, beefy flavor.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Work in batches if necessary to prevent the ground beef from steaming instead of browning.
  • Drain Excess Fat: After browning the beef, be sure to drain any excess fat from the pan to prevent the final dish from being greasy.
  • Cook the Cabbage to Perfection: Aim for cabbage that is tender but still has a slight crunch. Overcooking can result in a mushy texture.
  • Enhance Flavor with Spices: In addition to the paprika, consider adding other spices like cumin, chili powder, or dried herbs to create your desired flavor profile.

Variations and Substitutions for Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage

The beauty of ground beef and chopped cabbage is its versatility. Here are some ways you can customize this dish to suit your tastes:

  • Alternative Proteins: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based protein sources like crumbled tofu or tempeh.
  • Vegetable Additions: Incorporate other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to add more color and nutrition to the dish.
  • Flavor Variations: Try different spice blends, such as Italian seasoning, Mexican-inspired chili powder and cumin, or a dash of smoked paprika for a Southwestern flair.

Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage

Ground beef and chopped cabbage is a wonderfully versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it over steamed rice or quinoa, with a side of roasted potatoes, or alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced, nutrient-dense meal. For a heartier option, enjoy it with a crusty piece of bread or a warm, flaky biscuit.

Nutritional Information for Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage

In addition to its delicious flavor, ground beef and chopped cabbage is a nutritious meal choice. Ground beef is an excellent source of protein, iron, and other essential vitamins and minerals, while cabbage is a low-calorie, fiber-rich vegetable that’s packed with antioxidants and vitamins C and K. Together, these ingredients create a well-balanced dish that can support overall health and well-being.

A typical serving of ground beef and chopped cabbage (approximately 1 cup) contains around 300 calories, 20 grams of protein, 15 grams of carbohydrates, and 5 grams of fiber. It’s a great option for those looking to incorporate more vegetables into their diet or maintain a balanced, nutrient-dense meal plan.

FAQs About Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage

What can I do with cabbage and ground beef?

There are countless delicious ways to incorporate ground beef and chopped cabbage into your meals. Beyond the classic skillet dish, you can use the combination to make stuffed cabbage rolls, cabbage and beef casseroles, or even add it to soups and stews for extra heartiness and flavor.

What is needed for corned beef and cabbage?

While this recipe focuses on ground beef and chopped cabbage, the classic corned beef and cabbage dish requires a few key ingredients: corned beef, cabbage, potatoes, and typically some aromatics like onions and garlic. The corned beef is usually simmered until tender, then served alongside the boiled or sautéed cabbage and potatoes.

How do I cook chopped cabbage?

To cook chopped cabbage, simply add it to a skillet or pot with a bit of oil or broth and sauté or simmer it until it reaches your desired level of tenderness. For this ground beef and chopped cabbage recipe, we recommend simmering the cabbage for 10-12 minutes, or until it’s still slightly crunchy. Adjust the cooking time based on your personal preferences.

What spices enhance ground beef and cabbage?

In addition to the paprika used in this recipe, other spices that pair well with ground beef and chopped cabbage include cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. You can also experiment with dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil to create different flavor profiles.

Get ready to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal with ground beef and chopped cabbage! This versatile combination is sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting, wholesome dish, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Bon appétit!

Looking for more visual inspiration? Follow me on Pinterest, where I share new recipes, dinner tips, and behind-the-scenes kitchen moments every week. Buon appetito!

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Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage 30 Minutes Easy Delicious

Enjoy Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage: A Quick and Delicious Meal!


  • Author: Sofia Rojas
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Ground beef and chopped cabbage is a simple, yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal any time.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 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

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 up the meat as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the pan.

2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

3. Add Tomato Paste and Seasonings: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Add the paprika, salt, pepper, and any optional spices, and mix well.

4. Add Cabbage and Beef Broth: Toss the chopped cabbage into 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 but still has a slight bite.

5. Serve: Adjust the seasoning to taste and serve the ground beef and chopped cabbage warm.

Notes

Optional: cumin or chili flakes for added flavor.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Skillet
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 3 grams
  • Sodium: 400 milligrams
  • Fat: 20 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 8 grams
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 grams
  • Trans Fat: 0 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 15 grams
  • Fiber: 5 grams
  • Protein: 20 grams
  • Cholesterol: 70 milligrams