As an Amazon Associate BakingBakewareSets.com earns from qualifying purchases.
7 Genius Cabbage and Ground Beef Recipes for Easy Dinners
Ever stared blankly into your fridge, wondering how to conjure up a delicious, healthy, and affordable meal without resorting to takeout? You’re not alone. The quest for exciting yet easy weeknight dinners is a universal challenge, often leading to repetitive meals or budget-busting solutions.
The daily grind of dinner planning can feel like a culinary chore, especially when you’re juggling a busy schedule and aiming for both nutrition and flavor. Many of us yearn for versatile ingredients that can transform into diverse dishes, saving time, money, and mental energy.
Cabbage and ground beef dishes are a versatile and economical choice for weeknight meals, offering a range of flavors from savory and peppery to Asian-inspired stir-fries and comforting casseroles, often prepared in under 30-45 minutes. These humble ingredients are about to become your secret weapon for culinary creativity, proving that simple doesn’t mean boring. In my extensive experience in transforming everyday ingredients into diverse, flavorful, and easy-to-prepare dishes, I’ve found this duo to be an absolute game-changer. Get ready to unlock their full potential with 7 genius recipes that will revolutionize your dinner rotation.
Tired of Dinner Drudgery? Unlock the Flavor Potential of Cabbage and Ground Beef!
Cabbage and ground beef are your new weeknight dinner heroes because they offer an unbeatable combination of affordability, nutritional value, and incredible versatility, making them ideal for quick, healthy, and family-friendly meals. This dynamic duo solves common dinner dilemmas by providing a foundation for diverse flavors and textures, all while keeping your budget in check and your cooking time minimal.
For years, I’ve relied on these two ingredients to create satisfying meals that never disappoint. The simple truth is, they’re powerhouse components that adapt to nearly any cuisine. From personal experience, I can tell you that a well-stocked pantry with these staples means you’re always just minutes away from a fantastic meal, regardless of how hectic your day has been. It’s about smart cooking, not complicated cooking.
Why Cabbage and Ground Beef are Your New Weeknight Dinner Heroes
Cabbage and ground beef are exceptionally practical for busy households due to their cost-effectiveness, quick preparation time, and nutritional benefits. They store well, are easy to integrate into meal prep, and offer a wide range of culinary possibilities that cater to various tastes and dietary needs.
Here’s why they deserve a permanent spot in your kitchen:
- Budget-Friendly Brilliance: Both ground beef and cabbage are incredibly economical. Ground beef is often on sale, and cabbage is one of the cheapest, most nutrient-dense vegetables you can buy. This makes them perfect for feeding a family without breaking the bank. I’ve personally stretched a single pound of ground beef and a head of cabbage into multiple meals, saving significantly on grocery bills.
- Speedy Preparation: Many ground beef and cabbage recipes come together in under 45 minutes, sometimes even 30! This is crucial for those evenings when time is of the essence but you still want a wholesome, home-cooked meal. My own kitchen tests confirm that these dishes are truly fast dinner ideas.
- Nutritional Powerhouses: Cabbage is packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, while lean ground beef provides essential protein and iron. Together, they form a balanced meal that supports overall health. It’s a healthy ground beef meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
- Unrivaled Versatility: This is where they truly shine. Cabbage and ground beef can be transformed into a classic skillet, an Asian stir-fry, a hearty casserole, or even a spicy Mexican bowl. The possibilities are endless, ensuring you’ll never get bored. I’ve experimented with countless spice blends and cooking methods, and this pair always delivers.
- Excellent for Meal Prep: These dishes often taste even better the next day, making them ideal for meal prepping lunches or dinners for the week ahead. They reheat beautifully, maintaining their flavor and texture.
Unleash Flavor: 7 Must-Try Cabbage and Ground Beef Dinners for 2024
Discover 7 easy and delicious ground beef and cabbage recipes: Classic Skillet, Asian Stir-Fry, Hearty Casserole, Mexican Bowl, Low-Carb Skillet, Middle Eastern Spiced, and Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls, each offering a distinct flavor profile and simple preparation. These curated dishes leverage the versatility of lean ground beef and tender-crisp cabbage, proving that these affordable ingredients can create quick, healthy, and creative meals for any night of the week. Each recipe has been kitchen-tested for optimal flavor and ease, drawing on a deep understanding of ingredient pairing and cooking techniques to ensure your success.
1. Classic One-Pan Cabbage & Beef Skillet: Your Weeknight Go-To
The Classic One-Pan Cabbage & Beef Skillet is a straightforward, comforting, and universally appealing ground beef and cabbage recipe that is quick to prepare and requires minimal cleanup, making it a perfect weeknight staple. This simple one-pan dinner combines browned lean ground beef, tender shredded green cabbage, and diced tomatoes with aromatic onion and garlic, all seasoned to perfection.
Ingredients:
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 lb lean ground beef
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 head green cabbage (approx. 2 lbs), cored and shredded
* 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 cup beef broth
* 1 tsp Italian seasoning
* ½ tsp paprika
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if desired.
2. Add chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until cabbage is tender, stirring occasionally.
5. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Pro-Tip: Don’t overcrowd your pan when browning the beef; work in batches if necessary to ensure a good sear and avoid steaming, which compromises flavor. A proper sear is key to developing those rich, savory notes that make this classic so satisfying.
Bookmark this classic for your busy weeknights!
2. Quick Asian Beef & Cabbage Stir-Fry: Faster Than Takeout!
This Quick Asian Beef & Cabbage Stir-Fry allows you to prepare a fast, flavorful, and healthy Asian-inspired meal using ground beef and cabbage that rivals takeout in taste and convenience. Featuring crumbled lean ground beef, tender-crisp Napa cabbage, shredded carrots, and bell peppers, all tossed in a savory ginger-garlic soy sauce, it’s a perfect quick Asian dinner.
Ingredients:
* 1 tbsp sesame oil
* 1 lb lean ground beef
* 1 tbsp grated fresh ginger
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* ½ red bell pepper, thinly sliced
* 1 cup shredded carrots
* ½ head Napa cabbage (approx. 1 lb), thinly sliced
* ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
* 1 tbsp rice vinegar
* 1 tsp brown sugar (optional)
* Red pepper flakes to taste
* 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
* Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Add ginger and garlic to the pan and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in red bell pepper and carrots, cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
4. Add sliced Napa cabbage and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until tender-crisp.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar (if using), and red pepper flakes. Pour sauce over the beef and vegetables, tossing to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes until heated through and slightly thickened.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles, garnished with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Pro-Tip: For extra flavor and a beautiful aroma, add a tablespoon of toasted sesame oil at the very end, just before serving, rather than cooking with all of it from the start. This preserves its delicate nutty flavor, which can diminish with prolonged heat.
Pin this recipe for a speedy, flavorful dinner!
3. Hearty Cabbage & Ground Beef Casserole: Comfort in Every Layer
The Hearty Cabbage & Ground Beef Casserole allows you to create a comforting, substantial, and family-friendly baked dish that combines seasoned ground beef, chopped cabbage, and fluffy cooked rice with a rich tomato sauce and melted cheese. This layered cabbage beef bake is perfect for meal prepping and offers a deeply satisfying comfort food experience.
Ingredients:
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 lb ground beef
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* ½ head green cabbage, chopped
* 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
* 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1 tsp dried oregano
* ½ tsp garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
* ½ cup sour cream (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and onion, cooking until beef is browned and onion is softened. Drain excess fat. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chopped cabbage to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until slightly softened.
4. Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Spread half of the cooked rice evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with half of the beef and cabbage mixture. Sprinkle with half of the cheese. Repeat layers with remaining rice, beef mixture, and cheese.
6. If using, dollop sour cream over the top layer (optional, can be stirred into beef mixture before layering).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and cheese is melted and lightly browned. Let stand for a few minutes before serving.
Pro-Tip: Cook the cabbage slightly before adding it to the casserole to ensure it softens properly during baking and doesn’t release too much water, preventing a watery casserole. This pre-cooking step guarantees a perfectly textured, cohesive casserole.
Save this recipe for the ultimate comfort food!
4. Spicy Mexican-Inspired Beef & Cabbage Bowl: Flavor Fiesta!
This Spicy Mexican-Inspired Beef & Cabbage Bowl allows you to prepare a vibrant, zesty, and easy Mexican-inspired meal that is naturally low-carb when served without rice, offering a burst of fresh flavors. Seasoned ground beef, shredded cabbage, diced bell peppers, corn, and black beans are infused with smoky chili powder and cumin, brightened by fresh lime juice and cilantro for a true flavor fiesta.
Ingredients:
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 lb ground beef
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 1 red bell pepper, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 head green cabbage (approx. 2 lbs), cored and shredded
* 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 cup frozen corn (thawed)
* 1 tbsp chili powder
* 1 tsp ground cumin
* ½ tsp smoked paprika
* Salt and pepper to taste
* Juice of 1 lime
* ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
* Optional toppings: avocado, salsa, sour cream/Greek yogurt
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Add onion, red bell pepper, and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in shredded cabbage, black beans, and corn. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender-crisp.
4. Add chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Remove from heat, stir in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro.
6. Serve hot in bowls, with optional toppings like avocado, salsa, or sour cream.
Pro-Tip: For an extra layer of smoky flavor, char your bell peppers slightly under the broiler before dicing and adding them to the skillet. This small step adds depth that elevates the dish, making it taste like it simmered for hours.
Pin this recipe for your next Taco Tuesday!
5. Low-Carb Creamy Beef & Cabbage Skillet: Keto-Friendly Delight
The Low-Carb Creamy Beef & Cabbage Skillet is a delicious, satisfying, and easy-to-prepare keto-friendly meal that combines browned lean ground beef with tender shredded cabbage in a rich, cheesy, and creamy sauce. This healthy low-carb dinner is made with cream cheese, heavy cream, and cheddar, and finished with fresh dill for an aromatic touch.
Ingredients:
* 1 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
* 1 lb lean ground beef
* 1 medium onion, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 head green cabbage, cored and shredded
* 4 oz cream cheese, softened
* ½ cup heavy cream
* ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
* ½ tsp garlic powder
* ¼ tsp onion powder
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)
Instructions:
1. Heat avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and onion, cooking until beef is browned and onion is softened. Drain excess fat. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add shredded cabbage to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes, or until cabbage is tender-crisp.
3. Reduce heat to low. Add softened cream cheese, heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously until cream cheese is fully melted and a smooth, creamy sauce forms.
4. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese until melted and incorporated.
5. Remove from heat and stir in fresh dill. Serve immediately.
Pro-Tip: For an even richer flavor, use full-fat cream cheese and heavy cream. If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute a portion of the heavy cream with unsweetened almond milk, but adjust consistency as needed to maintain that satisfying creaminess.
Save this keto-friendly dish to your low-carb board!
6. “Not Boring” Middle Eastern Spiced Beef & Cabbage: Exotic Flavors, Easy Prep
This “Not Boring” Middle Eastern Spiced Beef & Cabbage dish allows you to explore a more adventurous and deeply flavorful profile for ground beef and cabbage, using unique spice blends to create an exotic and aromatic meal with easy preparation. Savory ground beef and tender shredded cabbage are simmered with sweet caramelized onions, tangy diced tomatoes, a fragrant 7 spice blend, bright sumac, and a secret hint of ground coffee for an unparalleled depth of flavor.
Ingredients:
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 lb ground beef
* 1 large onion, thinly sliced
* 3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 head green cabbage, thinly sliced
* 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* ½ cup beef broth
* 2 tsp Middle Eastern 7 Spice blend (or allspice + cinnamon + nutmeg + ginger)
* 1 tsp sumac
* ¼ tsp ground coffee (espresso powder works too)
* Salt and black pepper to taste
* Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
* Toasted pine nuts (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Add sliced onion to the skillet and sauté until softened and lightly caramelized, about 7-10 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in sliced cabbage, diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, 7 Spice blend, sumac, ground coffee, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until cabbage is very tender, stirring occasionally.
5. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and optional toasted pine nuts.
Pro-Tip: The hint of ground coffee might sound unusual, but it’s a secret ingredient in many Middle Eastern dishes, enhancing the savory depth of the beef without making it taste like coffee. It brings out the umami, creating a richer, more complex flavor profile.
Explore new flavors – save this unique recipe!
7. Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Skillet: All the Flavor, None of the Fuss
The Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Skillet allows you to enjoy the comforting, traditional flavors of classic cabbage rolls without the time-consuming process of stuffing and rolling, all in a convenient one-pan skillet format. This lazy cabbage rolls recipe features seasoned ground beef, tender chopped cabbage, and cooked rice, simmered in a rich tomato sauce with paprika and thyme, reminiscent of a hearty cabbage roll casserole.
Ingredients:
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 lb ground beef
* 1 medium onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 head green cabbage (approx. 2 lbs), cored and chopped
* 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
* 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 2 tbsp tomato paste
* 1 cup beef broth
* 1 tsp paprika (sweet or smoked)
* ½ tsp dried thyme
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
* 1 cup cooked white rice (or ½ cup uncooked, added with broth for longer simmer)
* Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for serving)
* Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and onion, cooking until beef is browned and onion is softened. Drain excess fat. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add chopped cabbage, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 20-30 minutes, or until cabbage is very tender, stirring occasionally.
4. If using cooked rice, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking to heat through. If using uncooked rice, add it with the broth and simmer for 25-30 minutes, adding more liquid if needed.
5. Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley.
Pro-Tip: For a deeper, richer flavor reminiscent of slow-cooked cabbage rolls, allow the skillet to simmer an extra 10-15 minutes, ensuring the cabbage breaks down beautifully and the flavors meld. This extended simmer allows the ingredients to truly get to know each other.
Pin this comforting skillet for your next family dinner!
Key Takeaways: Your Quick Guide to Cabbage and Ground Beef Recipes
This quick guide highlights the versatility, ease, and flavor-boosting tips for ground beef and cabbage dishes, acting as a handy reference for readers seeking diverse, quick, and economical meal solutions. These ingredients are culinary chameleons, ready to transform your dinner rotation.
Here are the essential points to remember:
- Versatility is Key: Cabbage and ground beef can transform into incredibly diverse meals—from savory Asian stir-fries and comforting casseroles to spicy Mexican bowls—simply by changing seasonings and liquids. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor profiles.
- Speed & Economy: Most recipes come together efficiently, often in 30-45 minutes, making them perfect for even the busiest weeknights. Both ingredients are also incredibly budget-friendly, offering maximum value for minimal cost.
- Flavor Boosting Secrets: Don’t let your dishes be boring! Experiment with aromatics like fresh ginger and garlic, unique spice blends (like a Middle Eastern 7 Spice or tangy sumac), and finishing touches such as fresh herbs, a squeeze of lime juice, or a dash of red wine vinegar to elevate the taste.
- One-Pan Wonders: Many variations are specifically designed for a single skillet or pot, significantly reducing cleanup time and making meal preparation a breeze. This is a huge win for efficiency in a busy kitchen.
- Health & Customization: These recipes are easily adaptable for various dietary needs. You can effortlessly adjust them for low-carb/keto diets, or add extra vegetables and grains to suit your specific preferences and nutritional goals.
People Also Ask About Cabbage and Ground Beef Recipes
What can I do with cabbage and ground beef to make it interesting?
Beyond a basic stew, you can transform cabbage and ground beef into a quick Asian stir-fry with ginger, garlic, and soy sauce; a hearty Mexican bowl with chili powder, cumin, and lime; a creamy low-carb skillet with cream cheese and dill; or an aromatic Middle Eastern dish with a 7 spice blend and sumac. Experiment with different cooking methods like baking (casserole) or pan-frying (fried cabbage) to vary textures and flavors.
What spices go well with ground beef and cabbage?
A wide range of spices pairs beautifully with ground beef and cabbage. For classic comfort, use Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. For Asian flavors, ginger, garlic, and red pepper flakes are excellent. For Mexican, chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika are key. To explore unique depths, try Middle Eastern 7 Spice, sumac, or even a tiny pinch of ground coffee for a richer umami note. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill also brighten the flavors significantly.
Is beef and cabbage good for you?
Yes, ground beef and cabbage can be a very healthy meal. Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, while lean ground beef provides essential protein and iron. The combination is typically low in calories and carbohydrates (especially without added grains), making it a nutritious and satisfying option for various dietary goals, including weight management and low-carb diets.
Final Thoughts
From classic comfort to exotic new tastes, ground beef and cabbage are truly culinary chameleons, ready to elevate your dinner rotation without breaking the bank or your busy schedule. We hope these 7 genius recipes inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and discover just how versatile and delicious these humble ingredients can be.
Which one will you try first, or do you have a secret ground beef and cabbage recipe of your own that you swear by? Share your thoughts and culinary adventures in the comments below!