Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Recipes for Every Occasion

Introduction to Ground Beef and Cabbage Recipes

When life gets busy, we all crave meals that are hearty, wholesome, and easy to throw together. That’s where a good ground beef cabbage recipe really shines. This dynamic duo—juicy, flavorful ground beef and tender cabbage—creates a symphony of textures and flavors that can suit everything from low-carb diets to comforting casseroles.

But what makes this combo even more amazing is how adaptable it is! You can whip up an easy skillet meal, a warm stew, or even a filling for stuffed cabbage rolls. Plus, cabbage is packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a sneaky way to add nutrition to your meal. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, these recipes hit the sweet spot of easy and delicious.

In this article, we’ll guide you through different ways to enjoy ground beef and cabbage, including skillet dishes, casseroles, soups, and stir-fries—all bursting with flavor and ready to satisfy your cravings.

Let’s dive into the first mouthwatering dish!

Classic Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

A simple skillet meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, this ground beef and cabbage skillet is perfect for a quick dinner. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can have a hearty meal ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb of ground beef
• ½ a large head of cabbage, shredded
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant and translucent.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and no longer pink. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and dried thyme.
3. Add the Cabbage: Stir in the shredded cabbage and mix well to coat it with the flavorful juices from the beef. Cover and cook for 10–12 minutes until the cabbage softens, stirring occasionally.
4. Serve and Enjoy: Once the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized, remove from heat and serve warm.

For an extra twist, top your skillet with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of shredded cheese if you prefer something indulgent. This dish pairs beautifully with mashed cauliflower or roasted sweet potatoes for a balanced meal.

Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Soup

Nothing says comfort quite like a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day. This ground beef cabbage soup combines tender beef, savory vegetables, and spices in a broth that’s both flavorful and nourishing. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead meal that tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cumin (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Beef and Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Remove excess grease if needed. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
2. Add the Liquids and Seasoning: Stir in the diced tomatoes (with juice), beef broth, oregano, smoked paprika, and cumin. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
3. Add the Cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 25–30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cabbage to become tender.
4. Taste and Adjust: Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you want a heartier texture, you can stir in a handful of cooked rice or quinoa.

Serve with a slice of warm crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. This soup freezes beautifully, making it a great choice for batch cooking, especially if you enjoy creamy soup recipes.

Savory Ground Beef and Cabbage Casserole

If you’re craving a comfort food classic, this ground beef and cabbage casserole will hit the spot. Layers of seasoned beef, cabbage, and a rich tomato sauce come together in a dish that’s warm, filling, and utterly delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ head of cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• ½ cup uncooked white rice
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Beef Mixture: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, brown the ground beef with the onion and garlic until the beef is no longer pink. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, rice, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
2. Layer the Cabbage: In a greased casserole dish, spread a layer of the sliced cabbage at the bottom. Pour half of the beef mixture over the cabbage. Repeat with another layer of cabbage and the remaining beef mixture.
3. Bake to Perfection: Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle with cheese (if using), and bake for another 10 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
4. Serve Warm: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to let everything settle.

This casserole is ideal for meal prep since it reheats like a dream.Serve it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a hearty family dinner, especially if you love cheesy baked pasta dishes.

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a timeless dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Tender cabbage leaves are filled with a savory ground beef mixture, simmered in a rich tomato sauce until perfectly tender. While they may take a bit of time to assemble, the result is well worth the effort!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 large head of green cabbage
• 1 cup cooked white rice or quinoa
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 egg, beaten (to bind)
• 1 teaspoon salt and ½ teaspoon pepper
• 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Gently remove 10–12 cabbage leaves and blanch them for 1–2 minutes until softened. Carefully transfer them to a plate to cool.

2. Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, onion, garlic, parsley, paprika, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until evenly combined.

3. Stuff and Roll the Cabbage

Place a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Add 2–3 tablespoons of the beef mixture at the base of the leaf. Fold the sides inward and roll up tightly, ensuring the filling stays inside. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

4. Simmer in Tomato Sauce

In a deep pot or baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce at the bottom. Arrange the stuffed rolls seam-side down in a single layer. Pour the remaining tomato sauce and diced tomatoes over the rolls. Add Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor, if using.

5. Cook to Perfection

Cover the pot or dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, or simmer on the stovetop over low heat for 45 minutes until the cabbage rolls are tender.

Serving Suggestion

Serve these comforting cabbage rolls with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables, similar to other rich tomato-based dishes.for a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing meal.my mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables for a nostalgic, crowd-pleasing meal.

Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Skillet

If you love the flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls but want something quicker, this unstuffed cabbage roll skillet is the perfect solution. It’s a one-pan wonder that delivers the same hearty, satisfying taste without the extra prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ large head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• ½ cup cooked white rice or cauliflower rice (for low-carb)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon cumin (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Beef and Aromatics: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add the Cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for 5 minutes, allowing it to soften. Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Simmer: Pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the cooked rice or cauliflower rice. Cover and simmer on low heat for 15–20 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
4. Finish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

This unstuffed version is fantastic for a quick weeknight dinner, especially when paired with garlic bread or a simple cucumber salad.Plus, it’s easy to customize—add bell peppers for extra color or chili flakes for a spicy kick, just like you would with other savory beef recipes.

Ground Beef and Cabbage Stir-Fry

When you’re craving something flavorful and quick, this ground beef and cabbage stir-fry is the answer. With tender cabbage, savory beef, and a punch of garlic and ginger, this dish comes together in under 20 minutes! It’s perfect for those busy nights when you need dinner in a flash.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 cups shredded green or Napa cabbage
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos (for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 2 green onions, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the beef. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the Cabbage: Stir in the cabbage and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly wilted but still crisp.
4. Season and Stir: Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Toss everything to coat evenly and stir-fry for another 2 minutes.
5. Finish and Serve: Sprinkle with chopped green onions and red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

This stir-fry is fantastic over rice or cauliflower rice, but you can also serve it as lettuce wraps for a fun, low-carb twist.

Low-Carb Ground Beef and Cabbage Bake

For anyone following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, this ground beef and cabbage bake hits the sweet spot of comfort food without the carbs. It’s layered with seasoned beef, tender cabbage, and a creamy, cheesy topping that’s irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup sour cream
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Sauté the Beef Mixture: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a skillet, cook the ground beef with the onion and garlic until browned. Season with onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook the Cabbage: In the same skillet, add the chopped cabbage and cook for 5–6 minutes until slightly tender. Remove from heat.
3. Prepare the Topping: In a bowl, mix the sour cream, cream cheese, and half of the shredded cheese until smooth.
4. Assemble the Bake: In a greased baking dish, layer the cabbage and beef mixture evenly. Spread the creamy topping over the top. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over everything.
5. Bake and Serve: Bake for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

This dish is so satisfying that you won’t even miss the carbs. It’s perfect with a side of roasted veggies or a fresh salad for balance.

Spicy Ground Beef and Cabbage Tacos

Who says tacos have to be made with tortillas? These spicy ground beef and cabbage tacos use cabbage leaves as low-carb shells, making them crunchy, flavorful, and completely guilt-free!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 large cabbage leaves (for taco shells)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• 1 cup chopped tomatoes
• ½ cup diced onions
• ½ cup salsa or hot sauce
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until browned.
2. Prep the Cabbage Shells: Rinse and pat dry the cabbage leaves. You can microwave them for 20 seconds to soften slightly if needed.
3. Assemble the Tacos: Fill each cabbage leaf with a spoonful of the seasoned beef. Top with cheese, tomatoes, onions, salsa, and sour cream.
4. Serve Immediately: Enjoy these tacos while they’re fresh and crunchy!

These tacos are a game-changer for taco night. They’re packed with flavor, easy to customize with your favorite toppings, and fun to eat! Up next: a cozy ground beef and cabbage stew to warm you up from the inside out!

Ground Beef and Cabbage Stuffed Peppers

If you’re looking to elevate your weeknight dinner game, try these ground beef and cabbage stuffed peppers. They’re colorful, flavorful, and packed with protein and veggies in every bite. The combination of seasoned beef, tender cabbage, and sweet roasted peppers makes this dish a standout.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef
• 4 large bell peppers (any color), halved and seeds removed
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• ½ cup cooked rice or cauliflower rice
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Peppers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the halved bell peppers in a baking dish and lightly drizzle with olive oil.
2. Make the Filling: In a skillet, cook the ground beef with the onion and garlic until browned. Stir in the cabbage, cooked rice, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
3. Stuff the Peppers: Spoon the beef and cabbage mixture into each pepper half. Top with shredded cheese if desired.
4. Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the peppers are tender and the cheese is bubbly and golden.

These stuffed peppers are hearty and flavorful, making them a perfect main dish. Pair with a side of mixed greens or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

Ground Beef and Cabbage Egg Rolls

Egg rolls with a twist! These ground beef and cabbage egg rolls are crispy, savory, and loaded with a delicious filling of seasoned beef and crunchy cabbage. Whether you bake or fry them, they’re sure to be a hit at family dinners or as an appetizer.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 large carrot, grated
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 12 egg roll wrappers
• 1 egg, beaten (for sealing)
• Olive oil spray (for baking)

Instructions:

1. Make the Filling: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the onion, garlic, ginger, and carrot. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
2. Add the Cabbage and Sauce: Stir in the cabbage, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Cook for another 2 minutes, then remove from heat and let the filling cool slightly.
3. Roll the Egg Rolls: Place an egg roll wrapper on a flat surface. Spoon 2 tablespoons of the filling onto the center. Fold the bottom corner over the filling, tuck in the sides, and roll tightly. Seal the edge with the beaten egg.
4. Cook: You can either bake the egg rolls at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes (spray with olive oil for crispiness) or fry them in oil until golden brown.

Serve these crispy rolls with sweet chili sauce or soy sauce for dipping. They’re perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a light dinner!

Ground Beef and Cabbage Pasta Bake

This ground beef and cabbage pasta bake takes classic comfort food to a whole new level. Tender pasta, seasoned ground beef, and savory cabbage come together in a cheesy, baked dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef
• 8 oz pasta (penne, elbow, or rigatoni)
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Beef and Cabbage Mixture: In a skillet, cook the ground beef until browned. Add the onion, garlic, and cabbage, cooking until softened. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Assemble the Bake: In a large baking dish, combine the cooked pasta and beef-cabbage mixture. Mix well and spread evenly. Top with shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
4. Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pasta for 20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden.

This pasta bake is hearty, cheesy, and full of bold flavors. Serve it with garlic bread and a fresh green salad for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Ground Beef and Cabbage Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s pie gets a delicious upgrade with the addition of tender cabbage! This ground beef and cabbage shepherd’s pie is layered with savory beef, sautéed cabbage, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes for a dish that’s comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cups shredded cabbage
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• ½ cup milk
• 3 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 12–15 minutes. Drain and mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper until creamy.
2. Cook the Beef and Cabbage: In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and cabbage, and cook until softened. Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika. Let simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Assemble the Pie: Spread the beef and cabbage mixture evenly in a baking dish. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them out in an even layer.
4. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20 minutes until the mashed potatoes are golden on top.

This hearty shepherd’s pie is the perfect meal for cozy nights. Serve it with steamed vegetables or a simple salad for a wholesome dinner.

Ground Beef and Cabbage Sloppy Joes

Take your Sloppy Joes to the next level with this ground beef and cabbage version. Adding cabbage not only boosts the nutrition but also adds a delightful crunch to the filling. These are perfect for lunch, dinner, or even game night!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 cup shredded cabbage
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons mustard
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• 4 burger buns or sandwich rolls
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the Beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add the onion, garlic, and cabbage. Cook until the cabbage softens.
2. Make the Sloppy Joe Sauce: Stir in the ketchup, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika. Let simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Assemble: Toast the burger buns and spoon the beef-cabbage mixture generously onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with the remaining half and serve warm.

These Sloppy Joes are messy, flavorful, and downright delicious. Serve with coleslaw or sweet potato fries for a fun and satisfying meal!

Nutritional Content of Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Per 100g)

Nutrient	Amount (Per 100g)
Calories	120 kcal
Protein	8.5g
Carbohydrates	10g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Fat	6g
Saturated Fat	2.5g
Sodium	400mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Stuffed cabbage rolls with ground beef are a comforting and flavorful dish that combines savory beef, tender cabbage, and rich tomato sauce into every bite. While they may take a little extra time to prepare, the results are more than worth it—perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or make-ahead meals.

What makes this recipe truly shine is its versatility. You can customize the filling with quinoa for extra protein, swap in ground turkey for a lighter option, or adjust the spices to suit your taste. Plus, the leftovers reheat beautifully, making this a meal prep hero!

Whether you’re looking to recreate a nostalgic classic or try a hearty new dinner idea, this ground beef cabbage recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the heartwarming experience of creating this timeless dish!

Let me know if you’d like a final review or any other improvements!