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Cabbage and Ground Beef

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Hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet

Cabbage and ground beef is a classic, budget-friendly dish that delivers on flavor and comfort. This one-pan meal is easy to prepare and full of nutrients, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when you need a satisfying, low-carb option. The combination of tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a blend of spices creates a dish that’s both hearty and delicious. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Main Ingredients:

  • Cabbage: 1 small, chopped
  • Ground Beef: 1 lb
  • Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (15 oz)
  • Onions: 1 cup, chopped
  • Garlic: 2 cloves, minced

Seasonings and Spices:

  • Bouillon Powder: 1 tablespoon
  • Cumin: ½ teaspoon
  • Cayenne Pepper: ¼ teaspoon
  • Smoked Paprika: ½ teaspoon
  • Salt: To taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

  1. Heat the Pan: Place a large pan or cast-iron skillet over medium heat.
  2. Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is browned and no longer pink. This should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

  1. Add the Onions and Garlic: Move the cooked ground beef to one side of the pan, making space for the onions and garlic. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the pan.
  2. Cook Until Softened: Sauté the onions and garlic until they become fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Incorporate the Tomatoes and Spices

  1. Add Diced Tomatoes: Pour the can of diced tomatoes into the pan with the ground beef and onion mixture.
  2. Season the Dish: Add the bouillon powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and salt to taste. Stir everything together until the spices are well distributed.
  3. Simmer the Mixture: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat slightly and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Cook the Cabbage

  1. Add the Chopped Cabbage: Gradually add the chopped cabbage to the pan, stirring to combine it with the beef and tomato mixture. The cabbage will reduce in volume as it cooks.
  2. Cover and Cook: Cover the pan with a lid and cook on medium heat until the cabbage is tender, about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and to prevent the cabbage from sticking to the pan.
  3. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or spices to suit your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Cabbage and ground beef is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways:

  • Low-Carb Option: Serve it as is for a satisfying low-carb meal.
  • With Rice or Potatoes: For a heartier meal, serve the dish over cooked rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside a baked potato.
  • As a Filling: Use the mixture as a filling for tacos, wraps, or stuffed peppers for a fun twist.
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Tips for the Best Cabbage and Ground Beef

  1. Use Fresh Cabbage: Fresh, crisp cabbage works best for this recipe, as it will hold up well during cooking and provide the best texture.
  2. Brown the Beef Well: Browning the beef adds a deeper flavor to the dish. Make sure the beef is thoroughly browned before moving on to the next steps.
  3. Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. Conversely, if you like more heat, feel free to increase the amount or add a dash of hot sauce.
  4. Substitute Ground Meat: You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork, depending on your preference or dietary needs.
  5. Add Extra Vegetables: For a more robust dish, consider adding other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Yes, this dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in a pan over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Q: Can I freeze Cabbage and Ground Beef?

A: Yes, this dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: What can I serve with Cabbage and Ground Beef?

A: This dish pairs well with a variety of sides such as rice, quinoa, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.

Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?

A: To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use lentils or crumbled tofu. Adjust the seasonings as needed to match the flavors.

Q: How can I make this dish lower in fat?

A: To reduce the fat content, use lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) or substitute with ground turkey or chicken. You can also drain excess fat after browning the meat before adding the onions and garlic.

Conclusion

Cabbage and ground beef is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s both easy to make and budget-friendly. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb option or a dish that can easily be adapted to suit your tastes, this recipe has you covered. Enjoy it on its own, or pair it with your favorite sides for a complete and satisfying meal.

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