cabbage ground beef recipe
The Best cabbage ground beef recipe
I love how this dish balances health and satisfaction. Cabbage is low in calories but high in fiber and vitamins, and the lean ground beef keeps it hearty without being greasy. My kids actually ask for it now—it’s one of those meals that feels like a treat but still feels like home. And honestly, it’s perfect for any occasion. Weeknights when you need something fast, a holiday spread where you’re serving up a crowd favorite, or even just a simple lunch that feels like a little extra effort. The key is keeping it simple with the right mix of ingredients, and this recipe does that without sacrificing taste.
Cabbage and Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers
A hearty, comforting dish featuring tender ground beef mixed with cabbage and baked inside bell peppers for a satisfying meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
- 1 medium head green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6 large bell peppers (any color), tops cut off and seeds removed
- 1 cup cooked rice (optional, for binding)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 375°F. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed. -
2
Add the onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking until softened (about 3 minutes). Stir in the shredded cabbage and cook until slightly wilted (5–7 minutes). -
3
Mix in the diced tomatoes, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. If using rice, fold it into the mixture to bind the filling. Remove from heat. -
4
Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds. Lightly brush the inside with olive oil. Stuff each pepper with the cabbage-beef mixture, pressing gently to fill them. -
5
Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake 10–15 more minutes until peppers are tender and filling is heated through.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Oven-safe baking dish
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Cabbage and Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cabbage and Ground Beef Stuffed Peppers
How do I store leftovers from this cabbage and ground beef dish?
Store any unused portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze leftovers in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in equal amounts. The texture may be slightly different, but the dish will still hold together well. Adjust cooking time by about 5–7 minutes if needed, as turkey cooks slightly faster than beef.
What if I don’t have a slow cooker?
Skip the slow cooker entirely. Instead, cook the beef and cabbage mixture in a large skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the cabbage softens—about 20–25 minutes. Add the broth at the end and simmer until reduced by half.
How can I make this dish more flavorful if I don’t have all the spices?
Enhance flavor with basic pantry staples: a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder, a dash of smoked paprika, or even a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce. If you have fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, add them at the end for brightness. The broth will also deepen the taste naturally as it simmers.
