When it comes to comfort food, there’s something special about combining the humble cabbage with rich ground beef. The combination may seem simple, but the resulting dishes are anything but. In this collection of 20 savory recipes, we’ll explore a world of flavors and textures that will leave you craving for more.
From classic twists on traditional dishes like stuffed cabbage rolls and beef and cabbage soup, to innovative creations like ground beef and cabbage tacos and quesadillas, there’s something for everyone in this roundup. Whether you’re a fan of bold spices and international flavors or hearty, comforting casseroles, these recipes will satisfy your cravings.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into the world of cabbage and ground beef, exploring different cultures and cuisines that have inspired these delicious dishes. So grab a pen and paper, get ready to cook up some comfort food classics, and let’s start our culinary journey!
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef and Tomato Sauce
This classic Eastern European dish is a hearty and flavorful meal that combines tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling of ground beef and rice. With a rich tomato sauce to bring everything together, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Remove cabbage leaves from the head and blanch in boiling water until soft.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir well.
5. Stuff each cabbage leaf with 1/4 cup of the meat mixture and roll up tightly.
6. Place rolls seam-side down in a large baking dish and cover with tomato sauce.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry with Soy Sauce
This simple and flavorful stir-fry combines the savory taste of ground beef with the crunch of cabbage, all tied together with a hint of soy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the garlic and stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Add the cabbage and stir-fry until it’s tender but still crisp.
5. Add the soy sauce and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cabbage and Beef Soup with Carrots and Potatoes
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe combines tender beef, sweet potatoes, carrots, and crisp cabbage in a rich and flavorful broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
4. Add the chopped carrots and potatoes to the pot and cook for 10 minutes or until they start to soften.
5. Add the chopped cabbage, beef broth, and browned beef back to the pot.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Unstuffed Cabbage Skillet with Ground Beef and Rice
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines ground beef, cabbage, rice, and spices for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shredded cabbage, cooked rice, chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Cabbage Egg Rolls with Sweet Chili Sauce
A twist on the classic egg roll, this recipe combines tender beef and cabbage with crispy egg wrappers and a tangy sweet chili sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 egg roll wrappers
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Sweet Chili Sauce (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. In the skillet, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the shredded cabbage, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the cabbage is tender.
4. Lay an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the beef and cabbage mixture in the center of the wrapper.
5. Brush the edges of the wrapper with water. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Fry the egg rolls in hot oil until crispy and golden brown.
Sweet Chili Sauce:
– 1/2 cup chili sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and stir until smooth.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes (including frying time)
Ground Beef and Cabbage Tacos with Lime Crema
This recipe combines the flavors of Asian-inspired ground beef with the crunch of cabbage, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. A dollop of tangy lime crema adds a bright and refreshing touch to this unique taco creation.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped cabbage
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 taco shells
– Lime Crema (see below)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped cabbage, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the cabbage is tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm the taco shells according to package instructions.
5. Assemble the tacos by spooning the ground beef and cabbage mixture into the shells.
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Serve with tacos.
Slow Cooker Cabbage and Beef Stew with Herbs
This hearty stew is a perfect winter comfort food, packed with tender beef, crisp cabbage, and a blend of aromatic herbs. Let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the warm and cozy aroma filling your home.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head cabbage, chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a skillet over medium-high heat; set aside.
2. Add chopped onion, garlic, and cabbage to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
3. Add browned beef, beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker. Stir well.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Spicy Korean Ground Beef and Cabbage Bowls
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional beef and cabbage dishes, these bowls are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This recipe combines the bold flavors of Korea with the comfort of familiar ground beef and crunchy cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 2 tablespoons Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions, for garnish
– 1 head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together Gochujang, soy sauce, brown sugar, and garlic. Pour the mixture over the cooked ground beef and stir to combine.
3. Add cabbage to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Divide cooked ground beef and cabbage among bowls and garnish with green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cabbage and Beef Stuffed Peppers with Cheese
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory flavors of cabbage and beef with melted cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz cheddar cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the shredded cabbage and cook until wilted.
6. Stuff each pepper with the beef and cabbage mixture, filling to the top.
7. Sprinkle the tops with cheese and place peppers in a baking dish.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ground Beef and Cabbage Dumplings with Dipping Sauce
These hearty dumplings are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, cabbage, and spices, served with a tangy dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce (optional)
– Dipping Sauce Ingredients:
+ 1/2 cup sour cream
+ 2 tablespoons soy sauce
+ 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
+ 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cabbage, flour, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Roll out small balls of the mixture into dumpling shapes.
4. Place the dumplings on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. For the dipping sauce, combine sour cream, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger in a bowl. Mix well.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Cabbage Hash with Fried Eggs
A hearty and flavorful breakfast or brunch option, this recipe combines the richness of beef and cabbage with the simplicity of a fried egg.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (ground or sliced), cooked through
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 eggs
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cooked beef and stir to break up any clumps. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
3. Add the sliced cabbage and cook, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired level of tenderness (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Crack an egg into the skillet and scramble it with the beef and cabbage mixture.
5. Repeat with remaining eggs.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cabbage and Ground Beef Lasagna with Ricotta
A hearty twist on the classic lasagna recipe, this dish combines savory ground beef and cabbage with creamy ricotta cheese and layers of pasta. Perfect for a cozy dinner or potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and onion until browned, breaking up meat with spoon as needed. Add garlic and cabbage; cook until wilted.
4. Combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Assemble lasagna by spreading marinara sauce on bottom of 9×13-inch baking dish, followed by layer of meat mixture, noodles, and ricotta mixture. Top with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
One-Pot Cabbage and Beef Pasta with Garlic Bread
This hearty one-pot pasta dish combines tender beef, crisp cabbage, and flavorful garlic bread for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (such as sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 medium cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or farfalle)
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bread for garlic bread
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large pot, cook beef strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add cabbage to the pot; cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
5. Add cooked pasta, crushed tomatoes, and oregano to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return beef to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Butter bread slices and sprinkle with garlic powder. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Ground Beef and Cabbage Quesadillas with Salsa
A twist on traditional quesadillas, this recipe combines the savory flavors of ground beef and cabbage with the crunch of a crispy tortilla. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium cabbage, shredded
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 large flour tortillas
– Shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Salsa (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Cook ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in shredded cabbage and cook until wilted.
4. In a separate pan or griddle, warm tortillas over medium heat for 30 seconds on each side.
5. Assemble quesadillas by spooning beef and cabbage mixture onto half of each tortilla, topping with cheese, and folding the tortilla in half.
6. Cook quesadillas for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and melted.
7. Serve hot with a side of salsa for dipping.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef and Cabbage Potstickers with Ginger Soy Glaze
Elevate your potsticker game with these savory beef and cabbage-filled dumplings, served with a sweet and tangy ginger soy glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 package round wonton wrappers
– 1/2 pound ground beef
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, shredded cabbage, and minced garlic. Mix well.
2. Lay out wonton wrappers on a clean surface. Place a small spoonful of the beef mixture in the center of each wrapper.
3. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle or square shape, and press edges together to seal.
4. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over medium-high heat. Cook potstickers until golden brown on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Serve with Ginger Soy Glaze (see below). Cooking time: 15-20 minutes.
Ginger Soy Glaze:
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
Combine all glaze ingredients in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth. Drizzle over potstickers before serving.
Baked Cabbage and Beef Casserole with Mozzarella
A hearty, comforting casserole that combines the flavors of beef, cabbage, and melted mozzarella cheese. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, shredded
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, grated
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the shredded cabbage and cook until it’s tender, about 5 minutes.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef and cabbage mixture with mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ground Beef and Cabbage Fried Rice with Scallions
Elevate your fried rice game with this flavorful and savory recipe that combines ground beef, cabbage, and scallions. This hearty dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium cabbage, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Push the beef aside, then add the remaining 1 tbsp of oil, chopped cabbage, and minced garlic. Cook until the cabbage is tender.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Add the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Stir in the sliced green onions and combine well.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cabbage and Beef Meatballs in Tomato Broth
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional meatball recipes, this dish combines the savory flavors of cabbage and beef with a rich tomato broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup finely chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, chopped cabbage, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a large pot, combine diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, and oregano. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
6. Add the meatballs to the tomato broth and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef and Cabbage Shepherd’s Pie with Mashed Potatoes
Warm up with this comforting classic! A twist on the traditional shepherd’s pie, this recipe combines tender beef, sweet cabbage, and creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1/4 cup butter, softened
– Milk or heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces.
3. Add the onion, garlic, and cabbage; cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in flour, beef broth, and thyme; bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, prepare mashed potatoes: Boil chopped potatoes until tender. Drain and mash with butter, milk or heavy cream (if using).
6. Assemble the shepherd’s pie by spooning the meat mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish, topping with mashed potatoes.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Ground Beef and Cabbage Lettuce Wraps with Peanuts
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines the savory taste of ground beef and cabbage with crunchy peanuts all wrapped up in crisp lettuce leaves.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, shredded
– 4-6 large lettuce leaves
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a pan over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the shredded cabbage and cook until it’s tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Season with soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Divide the cooked ground beef and cabbage mixture among the lettuce leaves.
5. Top each wrap with chopped peanuts.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Looking for comfort food recipes that feature cabbage and ground beef as the star ingredients? You’re in luck! This collection of 20 savory dishes offers a variety of creative twists on classic combinations. From stuffed cabbage rolls to ground beef and cabbage stir-fry, slow cooker stews to tacos and quesadillas, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty and comforting or quick and easy, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get cooking, and enjoy the cozy flavors of cabbage and ground beef!
