Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s budget-friendly, nutritious, and comes together in one pot. The combination of cabbage and ground beef creates a hearty yet balanced meal that’s loaded with flavor. The tomatoes and seasonings give it a cozy, slightly tangy base, while the red pepper flakes add just a hint of heat. I also love how it pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or cornbread — and the leftovers taste even better the next day.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
1 ½ pounds ground beef
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
salt and pepper to taste
1 small head cabbage, chopped
2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes
1 (14.5-ounce) can tomato sauce

Directions

1. I start by heating the olive oil in a large heavy pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. I add the chopped onion and cook it for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns translucent.

2. Next, I break the ground beef into small chunks and add it to the pot. I cook it for about 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until the beef is browned and crumbly.

3. I season the beef mixture with garlic powder, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt.

4. Then, I stir in the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. I bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

5. I let it simmer for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have blended beautifully.

6. I finish by tasting and adjusting the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. I like to serve it with rice or sweet cornbread for a complete meal.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 10 servings. It takes roughly 10 minutes to prepare and 35 minutes to cook, so I can have a hearty dinner ready in about 45 minutes.

Variations

Sometimes I like to add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for extra depth of flavor. For a lighter twist, I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. When I want more texture, I add diced carrots or bell peppers to the mix. If I’m craving something spicier, I increase the red pepper flakes or add a few dashes of hot sauce. For a touch of sweetness, a small handful of shredded carrots or a teaspoon of brown sugar works beautifully.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It reheats perfectly on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave. When reheating, I sometimes add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. This dish also freezes very well — I portion it into freezer-safe containers and reheat it straight from frozen for a quick, comforting meal anytime.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes, I often switch it up by using ground turkey, pork, or sausage. Each one adds a different flavor, but the dish stays just as delicious.

How can I make this recipe lower in fat?

I use lean ground beef or ground turkey and drain any excess grease after browning the meat. It still tastes rich without being heavy.

Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. I brown the beef and onions first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for about 6 hours or on high for 3 hours.

What should I serve with it?

I like to serve this with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or warm cornbread. It’s also great on its own as a complete meal.

How do I keep the cabbage from becoming too soft?

I make sure not to overcook it. Once the cabbage becomes tender and slightly translucent, I take it off the heat so it keeps a bit of texture.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage recipe is a comforting, one-pot meal that’s both hearty and easy to make. I love how it’s packed with simple ingredients that come together to create big flavor. Whether I’m cooking for a crowd or just want leftovers for the week, this dish always delivers a satisfying, home-cooked taste that warms me from the inside out.

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