Ground beef and chopped cabbage combine in this easy and hearty dish that’s packed with flavor and quick to make. It’s an ideal choice for a busy weeknight when you want something satisfying without a lot of fuss. The savory seasoned beef pairs perfectly with tender, sautéed cabbage to create a comforting one-pan meal. Serve it alongside rice, noodles, or crusty bread for a complete dinner. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and flexible enough to customize with your preferred spices and sauces.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 4 cups chopped green cabbage (about half a medium head)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the beef: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until fully browned. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant.
- Add cabbage and seasonings: Stir in the chopped cabbage, soy sauce, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Finish and garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove from heat and sprinkle with sliced green onions.
- Serve: Enjoy hot over rice, noodles, or on its own.
Notes
- Cabbage: Green cabbage works best, but Napa or savoy cabbage can be used for a milder taste.
- Beef: Choose lean ground beef to limit excess fat. Ground turkey or chicken are good lighter alternatives.
- Add-ons: For extra crunch and flavor, try adding sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or mushrooms.
- Sauce variations: A splash of sesame oil or a drizzle of hoisin sauce can give this dish a tasty Asian twist.
- Serving suggestions: Serve with steamed rice, quinoa, or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb meal.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This simple and flavorful ground beef and chopped cabbage recipe is perfect for a quick and hearty weeknight meal. Savory beef cooked with tender cabbage and seasoned with soy sauce and spices creates a satisfying dish that pairs well with rice, noodles, or enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients
Ingredients
-
1 lb ground beef
-
4 cups chopped green cabbage
-
1 medium onion, finely chopped
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
2 tablespoons soy sauce
-
1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
-
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
-
½ teaspoon black pepper
-
½ teaspoon salt
-
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
-
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
Instructions
-
Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown ground beef and drain excess fat.
-
Add onion and garlic, cook until softened.
-
Stir in cabbage, soy sauce, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until cabbage is tender but crisp.
-
Adjust seasoning, garnish with green onions.
-
Serve over rice, noodles, or as desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American