Description
This Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage dish is a hearty, flavorful, and quick meal that combines lean ground beef with tender cabbage and aromatic seasonings. Cooked in a single skillet, it’s perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner that requires minimal prep but delivers delicious, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean or your preferred choice)
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped (about 4 cups)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional for added flavor)
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional for depth of flavor)
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat until shimmering.
- Brown the beef: Add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spatula and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 to 7 minutes until the meat is thoroughly browned and cooked through.
- Drain excess grease: If there is excess fat in the pan after cooking the beef, carefully remove it to prevent greasiness.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the diced medium onion and minced 2 cloves of garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft.
- Add cabbage and seasonings: Stir in the chopped cabbage, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, and 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage starts to soften.
- Add liquids: Pour in 1/2 cup beef broth (or water) and 1 tablespoon soy sauce (if using) to the skillet. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer covered: Cover the skillet with a lid and cook on medium-low heat for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the cabbage to become tender and absorb the flavors.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the dish and add more salt, pepper, or soy sauce as needed to suit your preference.
- Serve hot: Dish out the ground beef and cabbage mixture while warm, perfect for a quick and nutritious meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Adding soy sauce enhances umami but can be omitted for a low-sodium version.
- Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to control the spice level or omit entirely for a milder dish.
- Serve with steamed rice or crusty bread to round out the meal.
- This recipe can be doubled easily for larger crowds or to provide leftovers.
