Ground Beef and Cabbage is a simple, hearty, and comforting dish made by cooking seasoned ground beef together with tender cabbage. It’s the kind of meal that feels warm and satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something filling without spending hours in the kitchen. The flavors are savory and slightly sweet from the cabbage, with juicy bites of beef in every forkful. It’s also a very budget-friendly recipe because it uses basic ingredients that are easy to find almost anywhere.

This dish is loved in many homes because it is easy to customize. You can make it spicy, mild, garlicky, or even a little tangy depending on your taste. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients cabbage is full of vitamins, and ground beef provides protein to keep you strong and full. Even better, it’s a one-pan recipe, which means fewer dishes to clean!
You Should Try Ground Beef and Cabbage
You should definitely try Ground Beef and Cabbage because it is quick, simple, and super delicious. If you are just starting to cook, this recipe is perfect because it doesn’t require any complicated steps. Even a 10-year-old (with adult supervision) can follow along and make a tasty meal. It’s also great for families because it makes enough to share, and everyone can enjoy it together.
Another great reason to make this dish is how adaptable it is. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite spices, mixing in extra vegetables, or serving it in different ways like over rice or alongside warm bread. It’s also perfect for using up ingredients you already have in your kitchen. After trying it once, there’s a good chance it will become a regular favorite in your meal rotation!
Table of Contents
Ingredients you’ll need for Ground Beef and Cabbage
Here is everything you need to make Ground Beef and Cabbage:
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme optional
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes optional for spice
- 1/4 cup water or beef broth
How to Make Ground Beef and Cabbage
Step 1
Start by heating a large skillet or pan over medium heat and adding the olive oil. Once the oil is warm, add the diced onion and cook it for a few minutes until it becomes soft and slightly golden. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until you can smell its delicious aroma.
Step 2
Next, add the ground beef to the pan. Use a spoon or spatula to break it apart into small pieces as it cooks. Let the beef cook until it is browned all the way through and no longer pink. This usually takes about 5–7 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally so it cooks evenly. Then once the beef is cooked, sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, paprika, thyme, and chili flakes if you like a little heat. Stir everything well so the spices coat the beef evenly and bring out all the flavors.

Step 3
Now it’s time to add the chopped cabbage. It may look like a lot at first, but don’t worry it will shrink as it cooks. Mix the cabbage into the beef and pour in the water or broth. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage will become soft and tender.
Step 4
Finally, remove the lid and cook for another few minutes if there is any extra liquid left in the pan. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once everything is cooked and flavorful, your Ground Beef and Cabbage is ready to serve!
You can add this post to your favorite Pinterest board!
Kitchen equipment you will need :
Before you start, make sure you have these kitchen tools ready:
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Lid for the pan
Tips for the Best Ground Beef and Cabbage
Drain excess fat from the beef if needed to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
Cook the cabbage until just tender to keep a slight crunch.
Use ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for freshness.
What to Eat With Ground Beef and Cabbage

Commonly Asked Questions
Can I cook this in a slow cooker ?
Yes, brown the beef first, then cook everything together on low for a few hours.
How long does it last in the fridge ?
It stays fresh for about 3–4 days when stored properly.
Can I freeze this meal ?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months in an airtight container.
Can I use other vegetables ?
Yes! Carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms are all great additions.
Ground Beef and Cabbage
Course: Main CourseCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes20
minutes320
kcal30
minutesGround Beef and Cabbage is a quick and easy one-pan meal made with juicy ground beef, tender cabbage, and simple seasonings. It’s perfect for busy days, full of flavor, and great for the whole family.
Ingredients
1 pound (450g) ground beef
1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme optional
1/2 teaspoon chili flakes optional for spice
1/4 cup water or beef broth
Directions
- Start by heating a large skillet or pan over medium heat and adding the olive oil. Once the oil is warm, add the diced onion and cook it for a few minutes until it becomes soft and slightly golden. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until you can smell its delicious aroma.
- Next, add the ground beef to the pan. Use a spoon or spatula to break it apart into small pieces as it cooks. Let the beef cook until it is browned all the way through and no longer pink. This usually takes about 5–7 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally so it cooks evenly. Then once the beef is cooked, sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, paprika, thyme, and chili flakes if you like a little heat. Stir everything well so the spices coat the beef evenly and bring out all the flavors.
- Now it’s time to add the chopped cabbage. It may look like a lot at first, but don’t worry it will shrink as it cooks. Mix the cabbage into the beef and pour in the water or broth. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for about 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage will become soft and tender.
- Finally, remove the lid and cook for another few minutes if there is any extra liquid left in the pan. Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. Once everything is cooked and flavorful, your Ground Beef and Cabbage is ready to serve!
Notes
- Don’t overcook the cabbage keep it slightly crisp
- .Add garlic at the right time to avoid burning it.
- Use a large pan to avoid overcrowding.
- Use fresh cabbage for better taste and texture.







![[wpzoom_rcb_post id="2435"]](https://www.sophiekitchen.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Ricotta-Meatballs-2-768x1076.png)
