Ground Beef and Cabbage
A hearty and flavorful one-pan recipe made with seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, and bold spices. Quick, budget-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or lean)
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- ½ bell pepper, sliced
- ½ teaspoon fresh grated ginger
- 2–3 tablespoons beef broth
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
Heat the Pan and Brown the Ground Beef
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess grease.
Add Aromatics (Onion & Garlic)
- Push beef to the side. Add remaining olive oil and diced onions. Cook 2–3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the Cabbage
- Stir chopped cabbage into the pan. Cook 7–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens and caramelizes.
Season It Right
- Sprinkle in salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add soy sauce or Worcestershire and stir to coat evenly. Cook another 2–3 minutes.
Taste, Adjust, and Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Add more salt or a dash of vinegar or broth if needed. Serve hot as-is or over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Use leaner beef if you want to reduce fat.
- For extra moisture, add beef broth or tomato sauce.
- Great for meal prep – lasts 4 days in fridge.
- Can be frozen for up to 2 months.