Ground beef and cabbage is a timeless comfort food that turns humble ingredients into something deeply satisfying. It’s a go-to dish when you want something cozy, quick, and affordable.
With tender cabbage, seasoned beef, and a savory blend of spices, this meal offers robust flavor in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or a no-fuss dinner, it always hits the spot.
The Main Players in Ground Beef and Cabbage
- Ground beef – The heart of the dish, offering rich, savory flavor and satisfying texture.
- Cabbage – Adds a subtly sweet crunch that balances the meat and absorbs the savory seasonings beautifully.
- Onion – A foundational aromatic that builds the flavor base and adds depth.
- Garlic – Adds bold, warm notes that elevate the overall taste.
- Diced tomatoes – Provide acidity and moisture, keeping the dish balanced and vibrant.
- Carrots – Their natural sweetness complements the cabbage and rounds out the flavor.
- Beef broth – Enhances the savory notes and helps bring everything together in a light, comforting sauce.
- Worcestershire sauce – Adds a bold umami kick that deepens the flavor profile.
How to Make This Classic in a Flash
Start by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil until fragrant and soft. Then, stir in tomatoes and let them cook down into a flavorful base.
Next, brown the ground beef, seasoning it with thyme, paprika (if using), salt, pepper, and bouillon powder. Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for depth.
Toss in the chopped cabbage and let it cook down until just tender. Add carrots and a bit of beef broth, then simmer until everything melds together.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm—comfort in every bite.
Kitchen Tips & Savory Twists
Use a large skillet or wok to give the cabbage space to cook evenly without steaming. Don’t worry if it looks like too much at first—it shrinks significantly as it cooks.
Paprika adds a gentle smoky undertone and a nice color contrast, but it’s totally optional. If you like heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce can give the dish a spicy edge.
You can stretch this meal even further by adding cooked rice, quinoa, or egg noodles. For a low-carb version, skip the carrots or use cauliflower rice on the side.
Save It for Later: Storing and Reheating Tips
Ground beef and cabbage stores beautifully. Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it into airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
To freeze, pack into portioned freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. It’s just as delicious the next day—maybe even better.
Ground Beef and Cabbage
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon white pepper
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup carrots grated or julienned
- 1 small head cabbage chopped
- ½ teaspoon paprika optional
- 1 teaspoon bouillon powder
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 onion diced
- ¼ cup low-sodium beef broth
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet set over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they become tender and aromatic.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes and allow them to cook for approximately 8 to 10 minutes, softening further and blending with the aromatics.
- Incorporate the ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns evenly throughout the pan.
- Once fully cooked, season the mixture with paprika, thyme, white pepper, salt, bouillon powder, and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine thoroughly.
- Introduce the chopped cabbage to the skillet and continue cooking, stirring intermittently, for about 5 minutes. Follow by mixing in the carrots.
- Pour in the beef broth and let the mixture simmer gently for another 5 minutes, or until the cabbage achieves the desired tenderness.
- Remove from the heat and finish the dish with a garnish of freshly chopped parsley.
Notes
Breaking up the beef as it cooks ensures a more uniform texture and even distribution. A potato masher works efficiently for this purpose.
Using a non-stick skillet can help avoid scorching and sticking. However, with attentive cooking and adequate oil, other skillets will suffice.
Cabbage will reduce significantly during cooking, so initial bulk is expected and manageable.
Nutritional figures are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredient brands used.
