Savory Cabbage and Ground Beef Stir

Savory Cabbage and Ground Beef Stir-Fry: A Simple One-Pan Delight”

Introduction

If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish, this Cabbage and Ground Beef Stir-Fry is the perfect solution.

Combining tender cabbage, juicy ground beef, and aromatic spices, this recipe transforms basic ingredients into a satisfying meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.

What makes this dish special is its versatility—you can adjust the spices to suit your preferences, add additional vegetables, or even pair it with rice or noodles for a more filling meal.

The combination of caramelized cabbage and savory beef creates a rich and satisfying flavor that will leave you coming back for seconds.

Follow this step-by-step recipe to create a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry:

1 pound (450 grams) ground beef

1 medium head of cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces

1 medium onion, diced

1 medium red bell pepper, diced

2 garlic cloves, minced

2 tablespoons olive oil (or any cooking oil)

1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juices)

For the Seasoning:

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon ground cumin

½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

1 teaspoon dried oregano

½ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)

Salt and black pepper to taste

For Garnish (Optional):

Fresh parsley, chopped

A drizzle of olive oil or balsamic vinegar for added flavor

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   1. Wash and chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Set the prepared vegetables aside.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
   1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat, if needed, and set the beef aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   1. In the same skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for 3–4 minutes until softened.
   2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the Cabbage:
   1. Gradually add the chopped cabbage to the skillet, stirring occasionally. The cabbage will shrink as it cooks, so you may need to add it in batches.
   2. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the cabbage begins to soften and caramelize.
5. Combine and Season:
   1. Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet, mixing it with the vegetables.
   2. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juices), paprika, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), oregano, and chili flakes. Mix well to combine.
   3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Simmer the mixture for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld together.
6. Serve:
   1. Transfer the stir-fry to a serving platter or individual plates.
   2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added color and flavor. If desired, drizzle with a little olive oil or balsamic vinegar for a finishing touch.

Serving Suggestions

This Cabbage and Ground Beef Stir-Fry is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with:

Steamed white or brown rice for a complete meal.

Buttered noodles or mashed potatoes for a comforting side.

A slice of crusty bread to scoop up the flavorful juices.

Conclusion

This Savory Cabbage and Ground Beef Stir-Fry is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a dish that’s both hearty and flavorful.

The combination of tender cabbage, well-seasoned beef, and aromatic spices makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to whip up on busy days.

What’s great about this recipe is its adaptability.

You can substitute the beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or add vegetables like carrots, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition.

It’s also an excellent dish for meal prepping, as it reheats beautifully and retains its rich flavors.