Every now and then, a dish comes along that sweeps you off your feet and demands a permanent spot on your dinner table. Imagine the sweet aroma of sautéed cabbage mingling with savory ground beef, creating a glorious harmony of flavors that dance together in perfect unison. This delightful combination isn’t just any ordinary meal; it’s an experience that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a potluck with friends, this dish promises to steal the show.

When I first encountered cabbage and ground beef recipes, I was a hesitant cook armed with only a microwave and takeout menus. However, one fateful evening filled with the desire to impress my roommates led me to try this dish. The result? A culinary triumph that transformed our kitchen into a haven of laughter and full bellies. The aroma wafted through the air like a siren call, luring everyone to the dining room, and I’ll never forget their delighted expressions when they took their first bites.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cabbage and ground beef recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it satisfies even the hungriest of appetites
- The vibrant colors and textures make it visually appealing on any table setting
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a main or side dish for any occasion!
I remember the first time I served this dish; my friends couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was. It felt like winning a cooking competition right in my own home!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Ground Beef: Choose lean ground beef for better flavor without excessive grease; you can also substitute with turkey or chicken if preferred.
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Cabbage: Fresh green cabbage works best; look for firm heads without blemishes for optimal crunch.
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Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; chop finely for even distribution throughout the dish.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide an aromatic punch; minced garlic enhances flavor significantly.
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Tomato Sauce: Use canned tomato sauce for convenience; it brings moisture and vibrancy to the mix.
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Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs will elevate flavors beautifully—don’t skimp on seasoning!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by washing your cabbage thoroughly under cool water. Chop it into bite-sized pieces while enjoying the crisp crunch as you slice through each leaf. Dice your onion finely so that it mingles seamlessly with other ingredients.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add some oil and toss in diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until they become translucent and fragrant—this should take about 3-4 minutes.
Brown the Beef: Add ground beef to your skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it cooks until it’s nicely browned and no longer pink—this will take around 6-8 minutes.
Add Cabbage & Sauce: Stir in chopped cabbage along with tomato sauce, mixing everything well. Let this simmer for about 10 minutes until the cabbage softens but retains some crunch—trust me; it’s worth waiting for!
Season It Up!: Sprinkle salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs over the mixture. Stir well to ensure every bit is coated with those delightful spices—your kitchen should be smelling heavenly at this point!
Serve & Enjoy!: Once everything is cooked down nicely, serve hot either on its own or over rice for extra heartiness. Garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy—it really ups the presentation factor!
This recipe not only fills bellies but also creates lasting memories around your dinner table. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
You Must Know
- Cabbage and ground beef recipes are incredibly versatile and budget-friendly
- They meld flavors beautifully, creating a comforting dish that satisfies the whole family
- This combo can easily be transformed into various cuisines, from hearty casseroles to spicy stir-fries
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by browning the ground beef in a skillet. While it cooks, chop the cabbage, then add it once the meat is browned for even cooking.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or chicken. Adding spices like cumin or chili powder can also elevate this dish’s flavor profile.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, microwave until hot or warm on the stove over low heat.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When preparing cabbage and ground beef recipes, make sure to season as you go for maximum flavor
- Sautéing onions with the meat adds a fantastic base
- Don’t forget to taste along the way; adjust flavors based on your preferences!
Sharing these delightful cabbage and ground beef recipes with friends always brings smiles and compliments. One dinner, we laughed over how quickly it disappeared—everyone wanted seconds!
FAQ
What are some other cabbage and ground beef recipes?
You can make cabbage rolls or stir-fried dishes with these two ingredients combined.
Can I use frozen cabbage?
Yes, frozen cabbage works well, but fresh will provide better texture and flavor.
How do I know when my ground beef is cooked?
Ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F for safe consumption.
Delicious Cabbage and Ground Beef Dish
This savory cabbage and ground beef recipe is a heartwarming meal that elevates any dinner table. With tender sautéed cabbage and flavorful ground beef, it’s a simple yet satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. The rich aroma and delightful taste will have everyone coming back for seconds!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 4 cups chopped fresh green cabbage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup canned tomato sauce
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Italian herbs
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients: Wash the cabbage and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add oil, then toss in diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until translucent (about 3–4 minutes).
- Brown the beef: Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until browned (6–8 minutes).
- Add cabbage & sauce: Stir in chopped cabbage and tomato sauce. Mix well and let simmer for about 10 minutes until the cabbage softens.
- Season: Sprinkle with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian herbs; stir to combine.
- Serve hot: Enjoy on its own or over rice, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 80mg