Ground Beef and Fried Cabbage

Ground Beef and Fried Cabbage is a hearty, budget friendly meal that’s full of flavor and ready in no time! The combination of seasoned beef, tender cabbage, and aromatic spices makes this dish perfect for a cozy dinner. It’s a one skillet wonder that’s great for meal prep, and best of all, it’s packed with protein and nutrients while keeping carbs low.

Whether you’re following a keto, paleo, or gluten-free diet, this meal checks all the boxes. The simple ingredients come together in a deliciously savory way, and you can easily customize it with your favorite seasonings or toppings. Serve it as is, or pair it with cauliflower rice for an even heartier meal.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped

• 1 onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free)

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

• 1/2 cup beef broth

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions:

1. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Remove beef from the skillet and set aside.

2. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil and sauté the diced onion until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

3. Stir in the chopped cabbage, smoked paprika, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Pour in the soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and beef broth. Stir well, cover, and let simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.

5. Add the cooked ground beef back to the skillet and mix everything together. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.

6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes

Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4

Ground Beef and Fried Cabbage: A Hearty and Flavorful One-Pan Meal

Ground beef and fried cabbage is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings together the rich, savory flavors of seasoned beef and the natural sweetness of caramelized cabbage. This budget friendly and easy to make meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something filling without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a dish that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.

The Origins and Popularity of Ground Beef and Fried Cabbage

This dish is a variation of classic cabbage and meat stir-fries that have been enjoyed across different cultures. Cabbage is a staple in many cuisines, from Eastern European dishes like haluski (buttered cabbage and noodles) to Asian stir fried cabbage with soy sauce and garlic. Combining cabbage with ground beef adds a hearty texture and rich flavor, making it a favorite in many households.

One reason for its popularity is its affordability. Both ground beef and cabbage are inexpensive ingredients that can be bought in bulk, making this meal a cost effective choice for families. It also requires minimal preparation, which makes it an excellent option for those who prefer quick and easy recipes.

Nutritional Benefits of Ground Beef and Cabbage

Not only is this dish tasty, but it also has numerous health benefits. Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. It supports digestion, boosts the immune system, and promotes heart health. Since cabbage is low in calories and high in water content, it helps keep you full while being a great addition to a balanced diet.

Ground beef, on the other hand, is rich in protein, iron, and essential nutrients like B vitamins and zinc. These nutrients support muscle growth, brain function, and energy production. If you prefer a leaner option, you can use ground turkey or chicken as a substitute while still keeping the dish flavorful and satisfying.

How to Customize the Recipe

One of the best things about ground beef and fried cabbage is its versatility. You can easily adjust the seasonings and ingredients to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few ways to customize the recipe:

• Add spice: If you like heat, you can include red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or chopped jalapeños for an extra kick.

• Include more vegetables: While cabbage is the star of this dish, you can add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for more texture and flavor.

• Enhance the seasoning: Garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, soy sauce, or Worcestershire sauce can deepen the flavor and create a more complex taste.

• Make it low-carb: This dish is already keto-friendly, but for an even lower-carb version, serve it as is without any rice or bread.

• Add a creamy element: Some people like to add a splash of heavy cream or a sprinkle of cheese to give the dish a richer texture.

Serving Suggestions

Ground beef and fried cabbage is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs well with different sides depending on your dietary preferences. Here are a few serving ideas:

• With rice or quinoa: Serve the dish over white rice, brown rice, or quinoa for a more filling meal.

• With mashed potatoes: The rich, buttery texture of mashed potatoes complements the savory beef and cabbage.

• With eggs: For a breakfast twist, top the dish with a fried or scrambled egg.

• With cornbread: If you enjoy Southern flavors, serve the meal with warm cornbread on the side.

• With a fresh salad: A light, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the dish.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

This dish is an excellent option for meal prep because it reheats well and can be stored for several days. If you’re making it in advance, keep the following storage tips in mind:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: If you want to freeze the dish, let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: To reheat, warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat or microwave it for a couple of minutes until heated through. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of water or broth to bring back some moisture.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, easy-to-make, and flavorful dish, ground beef and fried cabbage is a must try. It’s a fantastic option for those who want a simple yet nourishing meal that can be prepared in just one pan. Whether you’re on a low-carb diet, need a quick dinner option, or simply love the combination of savory beef and tender cabbage, this dish will not disappoint.

Conclusion

Ground beef and fried cabbage is a classic comfort meal that is both nutritious and satisfying. Its simplicity makes it perfect for home cooks of all skill levels, and its versatility allows for endless variations. Whether you enjoy it as a quick weeknight meal or a make-ahead dish for busy days, it’s bound to become a regular on your dinner table. Try it today and discover why this humble dish has been a favorite in so many kitchens!