If you’re in need of a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal, a ground beef cabbage recipe is a perfect choice. With savory ground beef and tender cabbage, this dish is full of flavor and easy to make. It’s a great option for busy weeknights or meal-prepping for the week ahead.
In this article, you’ll find clear instructions on how to make this dish, along with tips, variations, and storage ideas. Simple, flavorful, and satisfying – this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite.
Why This Ground Beef Cabbage Recipe Will Become Your Go-To Meal
Ground beef and cabbage may not sound revolutionary at first, but trust me—it’s one of those recipes that delivers comfort in every bite. There’s something truly satisfying about the combination of hearty beef and crispy cabbage, seasoned just right to make it irresistible. Whether you’re craving a savory dinner or need a versatile meal for meal prep, this recipe has you covered.
Besides the obvious deliciousness of the dish, there’s the added benefit of versatility. This recipe can easily be adjusted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Plus, it’s a meal that comes together quickly—perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but don’t have the time for an elaborate dinner.
Ingredients for Ground Beef Cabbage Recipe
Before we get started with the recipe, let’s go over the essential ingredients you’ll need. This ground beef cabbage recipe is built on simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground beef (lean)
- 1 medium head of cabbage (shredded)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 medium carrots (grated)
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger (grated)
- 2 green onions (chopped)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
This is the base for a well-balanced meal that’s packed with flavor. The beauty of this recipe is that you can easily swap out ingredients or add extras based on your preferences.
How to Make Ground Beef Cabbage
With your ingredients prepared, it’s time to start cooking. This ground beef cabbage recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for anyone—whether you’re an experienced chef or a beginner in the kitchen.
- Brown the Beef: Start by heating a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the pan and break it apart using a spatula or wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the beef is browned and cooked through. Remove any excess fat from the pan if needed.
- Add Aromatics: Once the beef is cooked, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the pan. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the onions become soft and translucent. This is the foundation of the savory flavor base.
- Add Carrots and Cabbage: Stir in the grated carrots and shredded cabbage. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the cabbage to wilt and soften. Stir the vegetables from time to time to ensure they cook evenly. You want the cabbage to retain some crunch, so avoid overcooking it.
- Season the Dish: Drizzle in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir to coat everything evenly. Sample the mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like a bit of heat, you can also add chili flakes or a splash of Sriracha at this point.
- Garnish and Serve: Once everything is cooked to perfection, remove the skillet from the heat. Top with chopped green onions to add a pop of color and freshness.
Serve this ground beef cabbage recipe as a standalone meal, or pair it with steamed rice for a more filling dish. It’s also great on its own as a low-carb option if you’re watching your carbs.
Expert Tips for Perfect Ground Beef Cabbage
To really make your ground beef cabbage recipe shine, keep these expert tips in mind. They’ll ensure you get the most out of your ingredients and elevate the flavor profile of the dish.
- Choose Lean Beef: Opt for lean ground beef to keep the dish lighter. However, if you prefer a richer flavor, you can use beef with a slightly higher fat content. Just be sure to drain excess fat before serving.
- Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: The cabbage should be tender but still slightly crunchy. Overcooking it can make it mushy and reduce its texture. Aim for 5-7 minutes of cooking once you add the cabbage.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Depending on the soy sauce you use, the dish might need a bit more salt or pepper. Make sure to taste and modify the seasoning as needed. If you’re using low-sodium soy sauce, you might need to add more seasoning.
- Add Extra Veggies: For a more colorful and nutritious dish, feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms. These will enhance the flavor and add texture to the recipe.
- Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, try adding chili flakes, Sriracha, or fresh sliced chili peppers to give the dish a spicy kick.
By following these tips, you’ll achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures in your ground beef cabbage recipe.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Ground Beef Cabbage
To ensure your ground beef cabbage recipe turns out just right, here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Not Draining the Fat: After browning the ground beef, it’s essential to drain the excess fat. This keeps the dish from becoming greasy and helps the vegetables maintain their texture.
Overcrowding the Pan: If you’re cooking a large batch, avoid overcrowding the pan. This can cause the ingredients to steam instead of sauté, affecting the flavor and texture. Cook in batches if necessary.
Skipping the Aromatics: Garlic, ginger, and onion are key ingredients that give your dish depth and flavor. Skipping them will result in a more basic, less flavorful meal.
Not Tasting for Seasoning: As with any dish, seasoning is crucial. Don’t wait until the end to adjust the seasoning—taste as you go and add salt, pepper, or soy sauce accordingly.
Avoiding these mistakes will ensure that your ground beef cabbage recipe is full of flavor and texture.
Variations to Try with Ground Beef Cabbage
While this ground beef cabbage recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways you can mix things up and create your own variations. Here are some ideas to try:
Spicy Ground Beef Cabbage: Add a kick to your dish by incorporating fresh chili peppers, chili flakes, or a generous splash of Sriracha for extra heat.
Low-Carb Version: Skip the rice and serve the beef and cabbage mixture over a bed of cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb alternative.
Keto-Friendly Ground Beef Cabbage: For a keto twist, use ground beef and cabbage with no added sugars or high-carb ingredients.
Vegetarian Ground Beef Cabbage: Swap the ground beef for plant-based protein such as lentils, tempeh, or tofu for a vegetarian-friendly version of this recipe.
These variations allow you to get creative with the dish and make it your own.
Serving Suggestions for Ground Beef Cabbage
When it comes to serving your ground beef cabbage recipe, there are endless possibilities.
- Serve with Rice: A classic choice! Steamed white rice or brown rice pairs perfectly with savory beef and cabbage. The rice absorbs all the rich, flavorful tastes.
- Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, try serving the beef and cabbage mixture in lettuce leaves, creating wraps for a refreshing, crunchy alternative.
- Pair with Soup: Complement the richness of the beef with a light, clear soup such as miso or wonton soup. This combination makes for a well-rounded meal.
- Add a Side Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette can balance out the hearty beef and cabbage, offering a contrast of textures and flavors.
These serving suggestions will help you get the most out of your ground beef cabbage recipe, making it both satisfying and versatile.
How to Store Ground Beef Cabbage Recipe
If you find yourself with leftovers from this ground beef cabbage recipe, don’t worry—you can easily store it for later.
- In the Refrigerator: Allow the dish to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will remain fresh for up to three days when stored in the refrigerator. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove for a fast and convenient meal.
FAQ – Ground Beef Cabbage Recipe
What enhances the taste of cabbage?
Cabbage has a naturally mild flavor, but when paired with the right ingredients, it can be transformed into a savory, vibrant dish. In a ground beef cabbage recipe, the combination of aromatics like garlic, ginger, and onion helps bring out the depth of the cabbage’s flavor. Soy sauce and sesame oil further elevate the taste, adding umami and richness. Additionally, a splash of vinegar or a pinch of sugar can balance out the flavors, adding a subtle tang or sweetness that complements the cabbage’s natural crunch.
You can also experiment with seasonings such as chili flakes or fresh herbs to introduce different layers of flavor to your dish.
What meat is best for cabbage?
When making a ground beef cabbage recipe, ground beef is the best option because of its rich flavor and texture that pairs beautifully with cabbage. However, you can also use other meats depending on your preference. Ground turkey or chicken are leaner alternatives and work well if you’re looking for a lighter version of the dish. For a more indulgent meal, ground pork or sausage can add extra flavor and fat, making the cabbage even more savory.
In general, any ground meat with a good balance of fat will complement cabbage well. Choose a meat that fits your dietary preferences and the flavor profile you’re aiming for.
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Ground Beef Cabbage Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef lean
- 1 medium head of cabbage shredded
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 medium carrots grated
- 1- inch piece of fresh ginger grated
- 2 green onions chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Brown the Beef
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and break it apart using a spatula or wooden spoon.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the beef is browned and cooked through.
- Remove any excess fat from the pan if necessary.
Add Aromatics
- Once the beef is cooked, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger to the pan.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the onions soften and become translucent.
Add Carrots and Cabbage
- Stir in the grated carrots and shredded cabbage.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage wilts and softens, but still retains some crunch.
Season the Dish
- Drizzle in the soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Stir everything to coat evenly.
- Taste the mixture and season with salt and pepper to your liking. For some extra heat, you can add chili flakes or a splash of Sriracha.
Garnish and Serve
- Once everything is cooked to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat.
- Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch.
- Serve and enjoy!