This dish combines tender cabbage with tasty ground beef for a comforting meal. With simple spices and easy cooking, it’s perfect for a busy night!
Whenever I make this, the kitchen fills with warm, inviting smells. Plus, it’s one of those meals where leftovers taste even better the next day—if there are any left! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is often used for its mild flavor and crunchy texture. If you’re looking for alternatives, savoy cabbage or napa cabbage can also work well, each giving a slightly different flavor and texture.
Ground Meat: I like using ground beef for its rich flavor, but ground turkey is a great lean option. If you’re aiming for a vegetarian meal, consider using lentils or crumbled mushrooms for a similar texture.
Onion: Yellow onions are the best for their sweetness once cooked. If you run out, red onions or shallots can also add a nice flavor. Just remember that shallots are milder, so adjust the amount to your taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic really boosts flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute—just use about 1/8 teaspoon for each clove.
Seasonings: Worcestershire sauce adds depth. If you need a substitute, try soy sauce or balsamic vinegar. For paprika, smoked paprika gives a nice smoky kick, while Italian seasoning adds herby notes; you can mix your own using oregano, basil, and thyme.
How Do You Ensure the Cabbage Is Tender Without Overcooking It?
Getting perfectly tender cabbage is vital. The key is to balance timing with the right cooking technique. Start by sautéing it just enough to get some flavor going, then cover your skillet to trap steam, which speeds up the cooking process without drying it out.
- After adding cabbage, stir occasionally but keep the lid on most of the time to help it wilt evenly.
- Keep an eye on it as it cooks; taste after 10 minutes to check if it’s tender but still has a bit of crunch!
- Adjust cooking time if you’re using a different cabbage type as some cook faster than others.
How to Make Cabbage and Ground Beef
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Main Dish:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or any cooking oil)
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30-35 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at about 40-45 minutes from start to finish. It’s a simple one-pan dish that comes together quickly and tastes delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil and Sauté the Onion:
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes, or until it turns translucent. This step adds a nice sweetness to the dish!
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn it—garlic can be tricky!
3. Cook the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Use a spatula to break the meat apart as it cooks. You’ll want it nice and browned, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep the dish from being too greasy.
4. Stir in the Cabbage:
Now it’s time to add the chopped cabbage to the mixture. Stir well and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice it starting to wilt, which is exactly what we want!
5. Mix in the Remaining Ingredients:
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with all the juices), Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. If you’re feeling spicy, add some red pepper flakes for an extra kick. Stir everything together until well combined.
6. Simmer and Cook:
Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let everything simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the cabbage is nice and tender. This will allow all the flavors to meld beautifully!
7. Final Taste and Serve:
Before serving, taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once you’re happy with the flavor, dish it out and enjoy this hearty meal!
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious cabbage and ground beef dish!
Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you’d like to use a vegetarian alternative, crumbled tofu or tempeh can work well. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly based on the meat or substitute you’ve chosen.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the dish moist.
What If I Don’t Have Worcestershire Sauce?
If you don’t have Worcestershire sauce, you can use soy sauce or a mixture of balsamic vinegar and a little brown sugar as a substitute. This will still give you a nice depth of flavor. Just use it in the same quantity as the Worcestershire sauce specified in the recipe!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, so everything becomes tender but not mushy. Adding extra veggies will enhance the dish’s nutrition and flavor!
