Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage

Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage is a simple, comforting one-pan meal made with seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, onions, garlic, and delicious spices. Everything cooks together in one skillet, creating a savory, satisfying dinner that is budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and full of flavor.

This old-fashioned homemade recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, low-carb meals, or whenever you need a filling meal without complicated ingredients.

1. Recipe Overview

2. Ingredients

For the Ground Beef and Cabbage

• 1½ pounds lean ground beef

• 1 medium green cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces

• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 medium carrot, shredded (optional)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil, if needed

• ½ cup beef broth

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ¾ teaspoon salt, or to taste

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional Garnishes

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

• 2 green onions, sliced

• ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• A little freshly ground black pepper

3. Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Remove the outer damaged leaves from the cabbage.

2. Rinse the cabbage under cold running water.

3. Cut the cabbage into quarters.

4. Remove the hard core from each quarter.

5. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces.

6. Peel and finely chop the onion.

7. Mince the garlic cloves.

8. If using carrots, peel and shred them.

9. Keep all the vegetables ready before cooking.

Tip: Try to chop the cabbage into similar-sized pieces so it cooks evenly.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

1. Place a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

2. Add the olive oil if using very lean ground beef.

3. Add the ground beef to the hot skillet.

4. Break it into small pieces using a wooden spoon or spatula.

5. Cook for approximately 6–8 minutes.

6. Stir occasionally until the beef is browned and no longer pink.

7. Drain excess fat if necessary, leaving a little for flavor.

Step 3: Add the Onion and Garlic

1. Add the chopped onion to the browned beef.

2. Stir well to combine.

3. Cook for approximately 3–4 minutes until the onion becomes soft.

4. Add the minced garlic.

5. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds.

6. Avoid burning the garlic because it can develop a bitter taste.

Step 4: Season the Beef

1. Add the paprika.

2. Sprinkle in the onion powder and garlic powder.

3. Add dried oregano.

4. Season with salt and black pepper.

5. Add red pepper flakes if you prefer a little heat.

6. Stir everything thoroughly.

7. Add the tomato paste.

8. Cook for another minute to develop the flavor.

Step 5: Add the Chopped Cabbage

1. Add the chopped cabbage gradually to the skillet.

2. Stir after each addition.

3. Add the shredded carrot if using.

4. Toss everything together until the cabbage is coated with the beef mixture.

5. Continue cooking for approximately 3–4 minutes.

6. The cabbage will begin to soften and reduce in volume.

Tip: If your skillet looks too full, add the cabbage in batches as it wilts.

Step 6: Add the Broth and Worcestershire Sauce

1. Pour the beef broth into the skillet.

2. Add the Worcestershire sauce.

3. Stir gently to distribute the liquid.

4. Scrape the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits.

5. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 7: Cover and Cook

1. Reduce the heat to medium-low.

2. Cover the skillet with a lid.

3. Cook for approximately 10–15 minutes.

4. Stir every few minutes to prevent sticking.

5. Check the cabbage for tenderness.

6. If you prefer softer cabbage, cook for another 3–5 minutes.

7. If excess liquid remains, remove the lid and simmer briefly until it reduces.

Step 8: Taste and Adjust

1. Taste a small portion of the beef and cabbage.

2. Add extra salt if necessary.

3. Add more black pepper for a stronger savory flavor.

4. Add a little Worcestershire sauce for extra depth.

5. Stir everything together one final time.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve

1. Remove the skillet from the heat.

2. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top.

3. Add sliced green onions if desired.

4. Finish with a little freshly ground black pepper.

5. Serve warm directly from the skillet.

4. Taste and Texture

• Flavor: Savory, rich, slightly sweet, and full of garlic and beef seasoning.

• Ground Beef: Juicy, browned, and flavorful.

• Cabbage: Tender, slightly sweet, and coated with the savory juices.

• Onion: Soft and naturally sweet.

• Garlic: Adds a delicious aromatic flavor.

• Overall Texture: A satisfying combination of tender vegetables and hearty ground beef.

5. Ingredient Substitutions

6. Delicious Recipe Variations

1. Cheesy Ground Beef and Cabbage

Add 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese during the final few minutes of cooking. Cover the skillet until the cheese melts.

2. Ground Beef and Cabbage with Rice

Add 2 cups cooked rice and stir everything together for a more filling one-pan meal.

3. Spicy Ground Beef and Cabbage

Add extra red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or chopped jalapeños for a spicy version.

4. Tomato Ground Beef and Cabbage

Add ½ cup tomato sauce and a little Italian seasoning for a richer tomato-based flavor.

5. Low-Carb Ground Beef and Cabbage

Keep the recipe as written, skip optional carrots, and use a broth and Worcestershire sauce with no added sugar if desired.

6. Asian-Inspired Beef and Cabbage

Replace Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce, add 1 teaspoon grated ginger, and finish with sesame oil and green onions.

7. Ground Beef, Cabbage and Potatoes

Add 2 cups diced potatoes. Cook them until nearly tender before adding the cabbage, adjusting the broth and cooking time as needed.

7. What to Serve with Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage

• Steamed white rice

• Mashed potatoes

• Cauliflower rice

• Garlic bread

• Dinner rolls

• Roasted carrots

• Green beans

• Fresh cucumber salad

• Cornbread

• Baked potatoes

8. Storage and Meal Prep Instructions

Refrigerator Storage:

• Allow leftovers to cool slightly.

• Transfer into airtight containers.

• Refrigerate within 2 hours of cooking.

• Store for 3–4 days at 40°F (4°C) or below.

Freezer Storage:

• Allow the cooked mixture to cool.

• Divide into freezer-safe containers.

• Freeze for approximately 2–3 months for best quality.

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Instructions:

• Reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat.

• Add a splash of beef broth if the mixture looks dry.

• Stir occasionally until steaming hot.

• Alternatively, microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through.

• Reheat leftovers to 165°F (74°C).

Meal Prep Tips:

1. Chop the cabbage and onions ahead of time.

2. Mince the garlic and store separately.

3. Measure the seasonings into a small container.

4. Brown the beef in advance if desired.

5. Cook the complete meal when ready or portion it into meal-prep containers.

9. Approximate Nutrition Information

Per serving, assuming 6 servings and using lean ground beef:

Nutrition values are estimates and vary according to the fat percentage of the ground beef, broth, and seasonings used.

10. Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Yes. Ground turkey is an excellent substitute. You may need a little olive oil because turkey is generally leaner.

Q2: Do I need to boil the cabbage before cooking?

No. The cabbage cooks directly in the skillet with the beef, broth, and seasonings.

Q3: How do I keep the cabbage from becoming mushy?

Avoid overcooking it. Start checking after 10 minutes of covered cooking and remove it from the heat when it reaches your preferred tenderness.

Q4: Can I make this recipe without tomato paste?

Yes. You can leave it out or replace it with a little tomato sauce.

Q5: Is Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage keto-friendly?

Yes. The basic recipe is relatively low in carbohydrates. For a stricter keto version, omit carrots and check the broth and Worcestershire sauce for added sugar.

Q6: Can I prepare this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the beef and onion first, then transfer them to a slow cooker with the seasonings, broth, and cabbage. Cook on LOW for approximately 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, checking for your preferred cabbage texture.

Q7: Why is my cabbage releasing so much water?

Cabbage naturally contains a lot of moisture. Cook uncovered for a few minutes at the end to allow excess liquid to evaporate.

Q8: Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Absolutely. Cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack can be added at the end for a creamy, cheesy finish.

11. Troubleshooting Guide

12. Chef’s Tips for the Best Ground Beef and Cabbage

1. Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease.

2. Brown the beef properly before adding vegetables.

3. Chop cabbage into evenly sized pieces.

4. Add garlic after the onions begin softening.

5. Use fresh garlic for the best aroma.

6. Season the beef before adding cabbage.

7. Add broth gradually to control the consistency.

8. Avoid overcooking the cabbage.

9. Drain excess fat without removing all the flavorful browned bits.

10. Finish with fresh parsley for a fresh, colorful presentation.

13. Serving and Presentation Ideas

• Serve in shallow bowls with the beef distributed evenly throughout the cabbage.

• Add freshly chopped parsley on top.

• Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over warm portions.

• Add a little black pepper before serving.

• Serve with cauliflower rice for a low-carb dinner.

• Place the skillet in the center of the table for family-style serving.

14. Final Recipe Result

Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage is a hearty, comforting, budget-friendly meal made with browned ground beef, tender cabbage, onions, garlic, and delicious seasonings.