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Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbag

Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing bowl (optional)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground beef 80/20 for best flavor
  • 1 medium green cabbage chopped (about 6 cups)
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional for heat
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ cup beef broth or water

Instructions
 

  • Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  • Add the Aromatics: Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden.
  • Cook the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet in batches, stirring frequently. Pour in beef broth and soy sauce to help soften the cabbage.
  • Season Well: Stir in smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 10 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
  • Finish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot straight from the skillet or spoon into bowls for a cozy dinner.

Notes

Tips for Perfect Ground Beef and Cabbage

  • Don’t overcook the cabbage—keeping a little crunch gives the dish texture.
  • Use a mix of olive oil and butter for rich flavor.
  • A splash of apple cider vinegar at the end brightens up the dish.
  • Let the beef brown properly before adding onion—this builds flavor.
  • Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top for extra comfort.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Crowding the pan: Overcrowding prevents the cabbage from sautéing properly. Cook in batches if needed.
  • Not draining fat: Too much grease can make the dish heavy. Drain lightly after browning the beef.
  • Skipping seasoning layers: Season each step—especially the cabbage—to avoid bland results.
  • Cooking cabbage too long: Overcooked cabbage can turn mushy and lose its vibrant flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Low-Carb Twist: Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos for a keto-friendly option.
  • Asian-Inspired: Add ginger, sesame oil, and a drizzle of sriracha.
  • Tex-Mex Version: Mix in taco seasoning and top with shredded cheddar.
  • Italian Style: Add tomato paste, oregano, and sprinkle with Parmesan.
  • Vegetarian Option: Swap ground beef for lentils or crumbled tofu.