Old Cabbage and Ground Beef Recipe

Instructions: How to Make Old Cabbage and Ground Beef

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, removing the core. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. If you’re adding any extra vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or potatoes, chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly.

2. Cook the Ground Beef

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up into small pieces with a spatula. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the beef, if necessary.

3. Sauté the Aromatics

Add the onion to the same skillet with the beef and sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Then, add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, allowing it to become fragrant.

4. Add the Cabbage and Broth

Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet, stirring well to combine it with the beef and onions. Season with paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef broth (or vegetable broth) to create some moisture in the dish, which will help the cabbage cook down. Stir everything together and bring it to a simmer.

5. Simmer the Dish

Cover the skillet with a lid and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and has absorbed the flavors from the beef and spices. If you’re using diced tomatoes, add them to the skillet about halfway through cooking for added depth of flavor. Stir occasionally, checking if the cabbage has cooked down and absorbed all the flavors.

6. Adjust Seasonings

Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or paprika if needed. If you want a little more acidity, a splash of vinegar or lemon juice can brighten the flavors.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Once the cabbage is soft and the flavors are well melded, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the Old Cabbage and Ground Beef hot, either on its own or alongside a starch like rice, potatoes, or bread. Garnish with some fresh herbs like parsley, if desired.

Tips for Perfecting Old Cabbage and Ground Beef

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: If you’re doubling the recipe, make sure to use a larger skillet or cook the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding. This will help the meat brown properly.
2. Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add extra vegetables like carrots or potatoes to make the dish even heartier. These vegetables also help balance the flavors and add additional nutrients.
3. Use Leftover Roast Beef: If you have leftover roast beef or cooked beef, you can use that instead of ground beef. Just chop it into small pieces and add it to the cabbage mixture in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
4. Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the dish, or drizzle some hot sauce on top when serving.
5. For a Smokier Flavor: Try adding a bit of smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor.
6. Serve With a Starch: To make the meal even more filling, serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or even a slice of crusty bread. The savory beef and cabbage flavor pairs wonderfully with any of these.

Why You Should Try Old Cabbage and Ground Beef

1. Affordable and Nutritious: This recipe uses affordable ingredients like cabbage and ground beef, both of which are packed with nutrients and protein. It’s a budget-friendly way to feed your family healthy, filling meals.
2. Comforting and Hearty: This dish is perfect for a cold day or when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying. The tender cabbage and savory beef make for a comforting combination that will fill you up.
3. Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of under 30 minutes, you can make this dish on busy weeknights without much hassle.
4. Customizable: Whether you like to add extra veggies, swap out the spices, or serve it with different sides, this recipe is highly adaptable to suit your taste preferences.

Conclusion

Old Cabbage and Ground Beef is a timeless, comforting dish that combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful, hearty meal. It’s a perfect recipe for busy nights, meal prepping, or when you just need something warm and satisfying. By adding a few extra vegetables or tweaking the seasonings to your liking, you can make this dish your own. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying it on your own, this dish will never disappoint. Give it a try today, and enjoy the classic flavors of home-cooked comfort food!