Cabbage and Ground Beef

This hearty cabbage and ground beef dish has been my go-to weeknight solution whenever I need a satisfying meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender cabbage and savory beef creates a comforting dish that's both nourishing and delicious.

I first made this recipe during a particularly hectic week when I needed something quick yet substantial. My family loved it so much it's now in our regular rotation, especially during colder months when we crave something warm and filling.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: A flavorful protein base, choose 85/15 lean to fat ratio for best flavor without excess grease
• Cabbage: Becomes wonderfully tender when cooked properly, look for firm heads with crisp leaves
• Diced tomatoes: Add acidity and moisture, canned works perfectly but fresh can be substituted in summer
• Onions and garlic: Create an aromatic foundation, choose yellow onions for their versatility
• Bouillon powder: Concentrates flavor in a short cooking time, better than broth for this quick recipe
• Cumin: Adds earthy warmth, toast it briefly before adding for enhanced flavor
• Cayenne pepper: Brings gentle heat, adjust according to your spice preference
• Smoked paprika: Provides depth and subtle smokiness without actual smoking, Spanish varieties are best

Step-by-Step Instructions

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Cook the Ground Beef:

Place your ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Allow it to brown thoroughly for 5 to 7 minutes, creating a flavorful base. Look for a nice caramelization on the meat before moving to the next step as this develops the foundational flavors.

Sauté the Onions and Garlic:

Push the browned beef to one side of your pan, creating space for the aromatics. Add chopped onions to the cleared area and cook until they become translucent and soft, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for just 1 to 2 minutes more until fragrant, being careful not to burn it as garlic quickly becomes bitter when overcooked.

Add Tomatoes and Spices:

Pour in the diced tomatoes with all their flavorful juice, which helps deglaze the pan capturing all the browned bits from the bottom. Stir in bouillon powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and meld with the other ingredients.

Add the Cabbage:

Incorporate the chopped cabbage into the mixture, stirring well to coat with the seasoned tomato sauce. Cover the pan to trap steam and cook for 10 to 15 minutes, checking and stirring occasionally. The cabbage will gradually soften and reduce in volume, absorbing all the delicious flavors. Cook until it reaches your preferred tenderness, testing with a fork.

Serve:

Once the cabbage has reached your desired tenderness, plate the dish while still hot. It stands beautifully on its own but also pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, crusty bread, or roasted potatoes. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro adds brightness to the finished dish.

The smoked paprika is what truly transforms this dish from basic to memorable. I discovered this trick from my grandmother who always said the secret to humble ingredients is treating them with respect and the right seasonings. This recipe reminds me of Sunday dinners at her table where simple food always tasted extraordinary.

Storage and Leftovers

This cabbage and ground beef dish actually improves with time as the flavors continue to meld together. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat portions gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. For longer storage, freeze in portion sized containers for up to 3 months, letting it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations to Try

The beauty of this recipe lies in its adaptability. For an Asian inspired version, swap the cumin and paprika for ginger, soy sauce, and a drizzle of sesame oil at the end. Create an Italian variation by using Italian seasoning instead of cumin and adding a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving. For a low carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or boost the protein by adding white beans for a complete one pot meal.

Perfect Pairings

This versatile dish works with numerous accompaniments. For a complete meal, serve alongside fluffy mashed potatoes which beautifully soak up the savory sauce. A simple green salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. For a heartier option, pair with buttered egg noodles or crusty sourdough bread to scoop up every last bit of goodness from your plate.

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Comfort food doesn't get better than this hearty dish, ready to satisfy and warm you up any night of the week.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, pork, or a plant-based alternative. Just adjust the seasoning to complement the meat of your choice.

→ What side dishes go well with this meal?

This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or even a light green salad for balance.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, this dish holds up well when reheated, making it a great choice for meal prep. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

You can reduce the cayenne pepper for a milder taste or add extra for more heat. A squeeze of fresh lime can also brighten the flavors.

→ Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze this dish for up to 1 month. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.