Ground Beef Cabbage: A Delicious and Easy One-Pan Meal

Ground Beef Cabbage, a humble yet incredibly satisfying dish, might just become your new weeknight staple. Forget boring dinners! This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful and comforting meal that the whole family will adore. Have you ever wondered how such basic components could create something so delicious?

Cabbage, often overlooked, has a rich history as a staple food in many cultures. From Eastern European traditions to Irish comfort food, cabbage has been a source of nourishment and warmth for generations. This particular combination, Ground Beef Cabbage, likely evolved as a practical and economical way to feed families, utilizing readily available ingredients. It’s a testament to the ingenuity of home cooks who transformed simple fare into something truly special.

What makes this dish so beloved? It’s the perfect balance of savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and a hint of sweetness. The texture is delightful – the slight crunch of the cabbage contrasting beautifully with the soft, seasoned beef. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! This one-pan wonder minimizes cleanup and comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The hearty flavors and comforting aroma will fill your kitchen with warmth, making it a meal that’s both delicious and soul-satisfying. Get ready to experience the magic of simple ingredients transformed into something truly extraordinary!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 blend recommended for flavor)
• 1 large head of Cabbage (about 2-3 lbs), cored and shredded
• 1 large Onion, chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can Crushed Tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can Tomato Sauce
• 1 cup Beef Broth
• 1/2 cup Long Grain Rice, uncooked
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 tablespoon Paprika
• 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1/4 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and Black Pepper to taste
• Optional: Fresh Parsley, chopped, for garnish

Preparing the Ground Beef and Aromatics:

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil to shimmer, but not smoke. This ensures even cooking and prevents sticking.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Cook until the beef is browned all over, about 7-10 minutes. Be sure to crumble the beef well to avoid large clumps.
3. Drain Excess Fat: Once the beef is browned, carefully drain off any excess fat from the skillet. This step is crucial for preventing a greasy final dish. You can use a spoon to scoop out the fat or carefully pour it off, holding back the beef with a spatula.
4. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the browned beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step is important for developing the base flavor of the dish.
5. Add the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. Stir constantly to prevent burning.

Combining the Ingredients:

1. Add the Tomatoes and Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir to combine everything well. The tomatoes will add acidity and depth of flavor to the dish.
2. Incorporate the Beef Broth: Pour in the beef broth. This will provide moisture and help to create a flavorful sauce. Stir to ensure all ingredients are well combined.
3. Add the Rice: Stir in the uncooked long grain rice. The rice will cook in the sauce and absorb the flavors, adding a hearty element to the dish.
4. Season Generously: Add the paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Be generous with the seasoning, as the cabbage and rice will absorb a lot of flavor. Stir well to distribute the spices evenly.

Cooking the Cabbage:

1. Add the Cabbage: Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet. It might seem like a lot of cabbage at first, but it will cook down significantly.
2. Stir and Combine: Gently stir the cabbage into the beef and tomato mixture. Try to distribute the cabbage evenly throughout the skillet.
3. Simmer and Cover: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet tightly with a lid.
4. Cook Until Cabbage is Tender: Cook for 45-60 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the rice is cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If the mixture becomes too dry, add a little more beef broth.
5. Check for Doneness: To check if the rice is cooked, taste a few grains. They should be tender and not crunchy. The cabbage should also be tender and slightly wilted.

Serving and Enjoying:

1. Rest Before Serving: Once the cabbage and rice are cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even more.
2. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with fresh chopped parsley, if desired. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
3. Serve Warm: Serve the ground beef and cabbage warm. It’s delicious on its own or with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.
4. Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Tips for Success:

• Choose the Right Ground Beef: I prefer using an 80/20 blend of ground beef for this recipe. It has enough fat to keep the dish flavorful and moist, but not so much that it becomes greasy. You can use leaner ground beef if you prefer, but you may need to add a little extra olive oil to the skillet.
• Shred the Cabbage Finely: Shredding the cabbage finely ensures that it cooks evenly and blends well with the other ingredients. You can use a knife, a mandoline, or a food processor to shred the cabbage.
• Don’t Overcook the Rice: Be careful not to overcook the rice, as it can become mushy. Check for doneness after about 45 minutes of cooking time. If the rice is still too firm, continue cooking for a few more minutes, checking frequently.
• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the dish throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to suit your taste.
• Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers. Just add them to the skillet along with the onion and garlic.
• Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the dish.
• Use Different Types of Tomatoes: You can experiment with different types of tomatoes, such as diced tomatoes or tomato puree. Just be sure to adjust the amount of liquid accordingly.
• Slow Cooker Option: This recipe can also be made in a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and sauté the onion and garlic as directed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.

Variations:

• Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Deconstructed: This recipe is essentially a deconstructed version of stuffed cabbage rolls. If you’re looking for a quicker and easier way to enjoy the flavors of stuffed cabbage, this is a great option.
• Add Smoked Sausage: For a smoky flavor, add some sliced smoked sausage to the skillet along with the ground beef.
• Use Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary, sage, or marjoram.
• Make it Vegetarian: To make this recipe vegetarian, substitute the ground beef with lentils or crumbled tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this hearty and flavorful ground beef and cabbage recipe! It’s a simple and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. Let me know in the comments if you try it and how it turns out!

Conclusion:

This Ground Beef Cabbage recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and perfectly balanced seasonings create a dish that’s both comforting and surprisingly light. It’s a one-pan wonder that minimizes cleanup and maximizes deliciousness, making it a true winner in my book. I truly believe this will become a staple in your household, just as it has in mine.

But what truly makes this recipe a must-try? It’s the sheer versatility! You can easily adapt it to your own preferences and dietary needs. Looking for a low-carb option? Simply omit the rice or potatoes that some people like to serve alongside. Want to add a little kick? A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce will do the trick. Feel free to experiment with different types of ground meat, too – ground turkey or chicken would work beautifully.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

* Classic Comfort: Serve it as is, warm and inviting, in a bowl. A dollop of sour cream or plain Greek yogurt adds a lovely tang.
* Rice Bowl Delight: Spoon it over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
* Potato Power: Mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes are fantastic accompaniments, soaking up all the delicious juices.
* Cabbage Roll Inspiration: Use the mixture as a filling for cabbage rolls, baking them in a tomato sauce for a more elaborate dish.
* Soup Sensation: Add broth and diced tomatoes to transform it into a hearty and flavorful soup.
* Spice It Up: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra layer of heat.
* Mediterranean Twist: Add chopped olives, feta cheese, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a Mediterranean-inspired variation.
* Asian Fusion: A splash of soy sauce, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds will give it an Asian flair.

I’ve tried all of these variations myself, and each one offers a unique and delightful experience. The beauty of this Ground Beef Cabbage recipe is that it’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Don’t be afraid to get adventurous and put your own spin on it!

I’m so confident that you’ll love this recipe that I urge you to try it out as soon as possible. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or any occasion where you need a quick, easy, and delicious meal.

Once you’ve made it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you try any of the variations I suggested? Did you add your own special touch? Share your photos and comments with me – I’m always eager to see how others are enjoying my recipes. Let’s spread the love for this amazing Ground Beef Cabbage dish and inspire others to get cooking! Happy cooking, and I can’t wait to hear from you!