Cabbage and Ground Beef: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Cabbage and Ground Beef: a humble dish, perhaps, but one that delivers a symphony of savory flavors and comforting textures that will warm you from the inside out. Have you ever craved a meal that’s both hearty and healthy, satisfying and simple to prepare? Then look no further! This recipe is a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients are combined with care.

This dish, in its various forms, has graced tables across cultures for centuries. From Eastern European stuffed cabbage rolls to Irish corned beef and cabbage, the combination of these two ingredients speaks to a universal appreciation for affordable, nourishing food. It’s a dish born of resourcefulness, a way to make the most of readily available ingredients and create a meal that sustains and satisfies.

What makes Cabbage and Ground Beef so beloved? It’s the delightful contrast of textures – the tender, slightly sweet cabbage against the rich, savory ground beef. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a depth that belies its simplicity. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can customize it with your favorite spices, add a touch of tomato sauce for sweetness, or even incorporate other vegetables like carrots and onions for added nutrition and flavor. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights, and the leftovers are just as delicious the next day. So, let’s get cooking and discover the simple joy of this classic comfort food!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of green cabbage (about 2-3 pounds)
• 1.5 pounds ground beef (80/20 or 85/15 blend recommended)
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Cabbage and Beef Mixture

1. Prepare the Cabbage: First, we need to get the cabbage ready. Remove any outer leaves that are wilted or damaged. Cut the cabbage in half through the core. Then, cut each half into quarters, removing the tough core from each quarter. Roughly chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Don’t worry about being too precise; it will soften as it cooks.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned all over. Drain off any excess grease. This step is crucial for developing flavor, so don’t rush it. We want a nice, even browning.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the browned ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
4. Combine the Ingredients: Now, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, uncooked rice, oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Simmering the Cabbage and Beef

1. Add the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. It might seem like a lot at first, but it will cook down significantly. Stir to incorporate the cabbage into the tomato and beef mixture.
2. Season and Simmer: Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Remember, you can always add more seasoning later, so start with a moderate amount. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. Once it’s simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet or Dutch oven, and let it simmer for at least 45 minutes, or up to 1 hour and 15 minutes. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together, and the cabbage will become wonderfully tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Check the liquid level during simmering; if it seems too dry, add a little more beef broth or water.
3. Check for Doneness: After 45 minutes, check the cabbage for tenderness. It should be soft and easily pierced with a fork. Also, check the rice to make sure it’s cooked through. If the rice is still a bit firm, continue simmering for another 15-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender.

Adjusting and Serving

1. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the cabbage and beef mixture and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or any other spices to your liking. A little extra smoked paprika can really enhance the flavor.
2. Garnish (Optional): If desired, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. This adds a pop of freshness and color to the dish.
3. Serve: Serve the cabbage and ground beef hot. It’s delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a side of crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful sauce.

Tips for Success:

• Cabbage Variety: While green cabbage is the most common choice for this recipe, you can also use Savoy cabbage for a slightly milder flavor and more tender texture.
• Meat Options: If you’re not a fan of ground beef, you can substitute ground turkey, ground pork, or even Italian sausage. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Spice Level: The red pepper flakes add a subtle kick to the dish. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit them altogether. If you like it spicier, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Rice Alternatives: If you don’t have long-grain white rice on hand, you can use brown rice, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time. You can also use other grains like quinoa or barley, but the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
• Make-Ahead Option: This dish is even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
• Freezing Instructions: Cabbage and ground beef freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Adding Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers. Add them along with the onion and garlic.
• Using Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work well in this recipe, fresh herbs will add even more flavor. If using fresh herbs, use about 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs for every 1 teaspoon of dried herbs. Add the fresh herbs towards the end of the cooking time.
• Broth Variations: You can substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth for the beef broth, but the flavor will be slightly different.
• Tomato Paste: For a richer, more concentrated tomato flavor, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste to the skillet along with the onion and garlic. Cook the tomato paste for a minute or two to caramelize it slightly before adding the other ingredients.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• Serve with a side of crusty bread or garlic bread.
• Serve with a simple green salad.
• Serve over mashed potatoes or rice.
• Top with shredded cheese, such as cheddar or mozzarella.

This recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal. It’s also a great way to use up leftover cabbage. Enjoy!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Cabbage and Ground Beef recipe is truly a must-try for anyone seeking a comforting, flavorful, and surprisingly easy meal. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, perfect for a chilly evening or a satisfying weeknight dinner. The savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and simple seasonings create a symphony of flavors that will leave you wanting more. I know I always do!

But what makes this recipe so special? It’s the perfect balance of simplicity and deliciousness. You don’t need to be a seasoned chef to whip this up, and the ingredients are readily available and budget-friendly. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile!

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

Think of this recipe as a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. While it’s fantastic on its own, there are countless ways to customize it to your liking.

* Spice it up! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick. A little bit of cayenne pepper goes a long way!
* Add some veggies! Feel free to toss in other vegetables like diced carrots, bell peppers, or onions for added texture and flavor. Mushrooms would also be a fantastic addition.
* Make it creamy! Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving for a richer, creamier texture.
* Serve it with sides! This dish pairs perfectly with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread for soaking up all those delicious juices. A simple green salad also makes a refreshing complement.
* Get cheesy! Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking for a cheesy, melty delight.
* Low-carb option! For a low-carb version, consider serving it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
* Make it ahead! This dish is even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together. It’s perfect for meal prepping!

I truly believe that this Cabbage and Ground Beef recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s a crowd-pleaser, a time-saver, and a guaranteed way to satisfy your comfort food cravings.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do.

And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try this recipe? Did you make any variations? What did you think? Share your photos, comments, and feedback in the comments section below. I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking!