Delicious Ground Beef and Cabbage Recipes

Ground beef and cabbage are two versatile ingredients that can create a variety of delicious dishes. From classic cabbage rolls to quick and easy skillet dinners, these recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen. Here, we explore several recipes that showcase the best of ground beef and cabbage, ensuring you have plenty of options for your next meal.

1. Classic Cabbage Rolls

This traditional dish features tender cabbage leaves filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, rice, and vegetables, all baked in a rich tomato sauce. It's a comforting meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Ingredients:

• 1 large cabbage
• 250g (about 8.8 oz) ground beef
• 250g (about 8.8 oz) ground pork
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large carrot, finely shredded
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 3 tbsp parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp paprika
• 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp tomato ketchup
• 1/4 cup fresh chopped parsley, divided
• 2 tbsp white vinegar
• 1 egg, slightly beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 1 (400g/14oz) can tomato juice or sauce
• 1 (400g/14oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Pinch of red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add 1/2 tsp salt and 2 tbsp vinegar to help reduce the cabbage smell.
2. Peel and discard the two outer leaves from the cabbage, then cut out the core. Place the cabbage in the boiling water core side down and cook for 7 minutes. Flip the cabbage over and continue cooking for another 7 minutes.
3. Remove the cabbage from the pot and carefully peel off the outer leaves. Set them aside to cool.
4. In a large bowl, combine the ground meats, onion, garlic, rice, shredded carrot, parmesan cheese, paprika, parsley, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and beaten egg.
5. Fill each cabbage leaf with 3-4 tbsp of the meat mixture, rolling it up like a burrito and tucking in the sides.
6. For the sauce, cook the diced onion in olive oil until softened, then add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Mix in the remaining sauce ingredients and simmer for 30 minutes.
7. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Spread some tomato sauce in a baking dish, arrange the cabbage rolls seam side down, and cover with the remaining sauce. Cover with foil and bake for 60-90 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
8. Let the rolls rest for 10 minutes before serving, garnished with remaining parsley.

Tasting Suggestions:

These cabbage rolls are best served hot, drizzled with additional tomato sauce, and paired with a side of crusty bread or a light salad.

2. Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

If you're looking for a quicker version, unstuffed cabbage rolls provide the same delicious flavors without the rolling process. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 cup carrots, chopped
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrots to the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the chopped cabbage and tomato sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.

Tasting Suggestions:

This dish can be served over rice or enjoyed on its own for a low-carb option. Top with grated cheese for an extra flavor boost.

3. Egg Roll Bowls

Egg roll bowls are a fun twist on traditional egg rolls, packing all the flavors into a hearty bowl. They are easy to prep ahead of time and perfect for meal prep!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or chicken
• 1/2 medium cabbage, sliced thin
• 1 cup matchstick carrots
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/8-1/4 tsp fresh ginger
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp cooking oil
• 1 tbsp chicken powder
• 1/4 cup chopped green onion
• 1 tsp sesame oil

Instructions:

1. Brown and drain the beef or chicken in a large pan, then set aside.
2. In the same pan, heat the cooking oil over medium-high heat. Add the onions, cabbage, carrots, and garlic, cooking until the cabbage is tender.
3. Add the soy sauce and chicken powder, covering the pan to steam for about 10 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked meat, teriyaki sauce, and brown sugar. Mix well and remove from heat.
5. Finish with sesame oil and chopped green onions before serving.

Tasting Suggestions:

Serve this dish over rice or noodles for a complete meal. You can adjust the seasonings to your taste for a personalized flavor experience!

4. Cabbage Roll Soup

This hearty soup is a comforting way to enjoy the flavors of cabbage rolls in a warm, broth-filled bowl. It's perfect for chilly nights!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 cup carrots, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 can tomato soup
• 1 can crushed tomatoes
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Beef bouillon seasoning to taste
• Italian seasoning to taste
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups beef broth

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the diced onion, celery, carrots, and garlic, cooking until softened.
3. Stir in the chopped cabbage, tomato soup, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
4. Season with bouillon, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes.

Tasting Suggestions:

This soup is delicious on its own or served with a slice of crusty bread. You can also top it with grated cheese for a richer flavor.

5. Cabbage Skillet Dinner

A simple and quick option, this cabbage skillet dinner combines ground beef with vegetables for a one-pan meal that's full of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 small head of cabbage, cored and chopped
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 2 tsp creole seasoning
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Remove excess fat if necessary.
2. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, cooking for 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the cabbage, diced tomatoes, and seasonings. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the top and cover until melted.

Tasting Suggestions:

This dish is satisfying on its own but can also be served with rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.

In conclusion, ground beef and cabbage can be transformed into a multitude of delightful dishes, each with its unique twist. Whether you prefer the classic cabbage rolls, a hearty soup, or a quick skillet meal, these recipes are sure to please your palate. Enjoy experimenting with these ingredients and make them a staple in your cooking repertoire!