cabbage and ground beef recipe
The Best cabbage and ground beef recipe
I love this recipe because it’s packed with nutrients—cabbage is low in calories but high in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, while lean ground beef adds protein and iron. It’s a great way to get more veggies into the family without them feeling like a chore. Plus, it’s versatile—you can make it with extra onions, bell peppers, or even a little bit of tomato sauce if you like. It’s also perfect for meal prep because it reheats well, so you can make a big batch and have leftovers for the next day. My husband and I always find ourselves reaching for it when we’re in the mood for something warm and satisfying, and it’s one of those dishes that feels like a little treat without the extra effort. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel good inside, and that’s what matters most.
Cabbage and Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers
A hearty and flavorful dish featuring ground beef mixed with cabbage, tomatoes, and spices, stuffed into bell peppers and baked to perfection. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground beef
- 1 medium head green cabbage, shredded
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa (optional)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds. Set aside. -
2
In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed. -
3
Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet, sauté until softened (about 3 minutes). Stir in shredded cabbage and cook for another 5 minutes. -
4
Pour in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, paprika, and bay leaf. Simmer for 10 minutes. -
5
Remove bay leaf. Stir in cooked rice or quinoa (if using). Fill each bell pepper with the mixture. -
6
Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 10 minutes until peppers are tender.
🔧Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Knife and cutting board
- Oven
- Baking dish
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
- For a lighter version, use lean ground beef (90% lean) and reduce salt.
- Substitute bell peppers with zucchini or eggplant if preferred.
- Make ahead: Assemble peppers up to 2 days in advance and refrigerate. Bake directly from fridge.
Watch Video Of How Cabbage and Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cabbage and Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers
1. What is the best way to prepare cabbage for this cabbage and ground beef recipe?
To prepare cabbage for this recipe, start by cutting it into quarters and removing any thick stems. Next, peel off the outer leaves, leaving the core intact. Cut the cabbage into wedges or thin slices, and then boil or sauté it in a bit of oil or butter until tender. You can also shred it finely for a more uniform texture. For best results, use a sharp knife and work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding.
2. How can I ensure the ground beef remains juicy and flavorful in this dish?
For juicy ground beef, start by browning it in batches in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Use a bit of oil or butter to prevent sticking. After browning, drain excess fat and return the beef to the pan. Add onions, garlic, and spices, and cook until the beef is fully cooked but still retains some moisture. Optionally, you can mix in a small amount of beef broth or water to help retain juices. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the beef dry. If desired, you can also incorporate a small amount of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for extra flavor.
3. What spices and seasonings work best in this cabbage and ground beef recipe?
The classic combination for this dish includes a mix of salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika (for a smoky flavor), and a pinch of dried thyme or oregano. For added depth, consider using a small amount of smoked paprika, cumin, or a dash of hot sauce. If you want to enhance the savory taste, a sprinkle of onion flakes or a bit of dried parsley also works well. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, keeping in mind that cabbage can be slightly bitter, so balancing flavors is key.
4. How long should I cook the cabbage and ground beef together?
The cooking time depends on the specific ingredients and your preferred texture. Typically, you should cook the ground beef for about 5-7 minutes until fully browned and cooked through (160°F/71°C for medium doneness). Once the beef is cooked, add the chopped cabbage and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still has some bite. If you prefer a softer texture, you can increase the cooking time slightly. For extra flavor, let the mixture sit for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to meld together.
5. Can I make this cabbage and ground beef recipe ahead of time and reheat it?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time, but there are a few tips to ensure it stays fresh and flavorful. You can make the ground beef mixture and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, use a gentle method like steaming, baking, or heating in a skillet over medium-low heat. To maintain texture, you might want to add a splash of water or broth while reheating to prevent the cabbage from getting mushy. Additionally, you can also store the cooked cabbage separately and mix it with the ground beef when reheating, if desired.
