Description
This quick and hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage recipe is perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal. Combining lean ground beef with tender cabbage, sweet carrots, and a flavorful blend of spices and tomato sauce, this dish cooks in just 20 minutes using a stovetop skillet. It's a comforting, low-effort recipe that delivers rich flavor and satisfying texture, ideal for busy schedules.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ½ medium cabbage, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, grated or julienned
- 1 medium to large onion, chopped
Liquids and Sauces
- 3 tablespoons tomato sauce or paste
- ½ cup beef broth or vegetable broth
Seasoning and Oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 ½ teaspoons paprika (regular or smoked)
- 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil for cooking
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, seasoning it with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat, then remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Carrots: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add the grated or julienned carrot and continue cooking until the carrot softens.
- Add Tomato and Broth: Stir in the tomato sauce or paste along with the beef or vegetable broth. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld and the vegetables soften further.
- Cook the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Cover with a lid and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage becomes tender but still slightly crisp if preferred.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir into the cabbage mixture. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired. Serve hot immediately.
- Cooking Tip: For a crunchier cabbage texture, cook only until partially wilted. For softer cabbage, simmer longer to your liking.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and calories.
- You can substitute beef broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or to keep it less meaty.
- Smoked paprika can add a nice depth and smoky aroma to the dish.
- Fresh herbs like parsley or chives enhance the dish’s freshness and appearance.
- This recipe is versatile; feel free to add garlic or other spices to personalize.
