Introduction
Are you in the mood for a comforting yet uncomplicated dinner? Look no further than this delightful Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage recipe! It’s a one-pan wonder that showcases the beautiful marriage of savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and rich, flavorful tomatoes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish will fill your home with a warm aroma that will make everyone gather around the table. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup, you’ll find this hearty meal quickly becomes a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 4 cups chopped cabbage
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup beef broth or water
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, allowing it to shimmer and warm up.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing them until the onion turns translucent and fragrant.
- Next, introduce the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Sauté until browned and fully cooked, ensuring it’s no longer pink inside.
- Stir in the chopped cabbage, allowing it to wilt and soften for about 5 minutes, soaking up those delightful beefy flavors.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their luscious juice), along with the paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Add the beef broth or water, stirring everything together until well mixed and vibrant.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Before serving, taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as desired for the perfect balance.
Notes or Tips
For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute of your choice. Additionally, feel free to experiment with other spices like cumin or chili powder to add your unique touch. If you love extra greens, throw in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for an added nutritional boost!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe primarily utilizes the sautéing technique to build flavor with the onions and garlic. Remember to cook the beef until it’s well-browned, as this adds depth to the dish. Simmering the mixture allows the cabbage to become tender while absorbing the rich flavors of the tomatoes and seasoning, creating a delicious sauce that envelops each ingredient.
FAQ
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Yes! You can prepare this dish in advance and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it.
How do I store leftovers? Place any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months, making it a perfect option for meal prep!
Conclusion
This Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage recipe is not only simple and quick to make but also packs a punch of flavor that both kids and adults will love. With its comforting nature and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your weekly meal rotation. So gather your loved ones, serve this wholesome dish, and enjoy the smiles that follow!