Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (85/15 or leaner)
• 1 small green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for a richer sauce)

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Preparation Time

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Remove any damaged outer cabbage leaves.
2. Cut cabbage into quarters.
3. Remove the core and chop into bite-sized pieces.
4. Dice the onion.
5. Mince the garlic.

Set aside.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add ground beef and diced onion.
3. Cook for 6–8 minutes.
4. Break the meat apart with a spatula.
5. Cook until beef is browned and onions are softened.

If using higher-fat beef:

Drain excess grease if desired.

Step 3: Add Aromatics and Seasonings

Add:

• Garlic
• Smoked paprika
• Oregano
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (if using)

Cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Stir in:

• Worcestershire sauce
• Diced tomatoes with juices
• Tomato paste (optional)

Mix thoroughly.

Simmer for 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Cabbage

1. Add chopped cabbage gradually.
2. Stir after each addition.
3. The cabbage may seem excessive at first but will shrink significantly.

Mix until coated in the tomato mixture.

Step 6: Simmer

1. Reduce heat to medium-low.
2. Cover with a lid.
3. Cook for 12–15 minutes.

Stir occasionally.

The cabbage should become tender while retaining a slight bite.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

Taste and adjust:

• More salt if needed
• Extra pepper for heat
• Additional Worcestershire for depth

Step 8: Serve

Serve hot as:

• A complete low-carb meal
• Over rice
• Over mashed potatoes
• With crusty bread
• Alongside roasted vegetables

Estimated Nutrition Information

Per Serving (4 servings)

Nutrition values are estimates and vary depending on beef fat percentage and ingredient brands.

Health Benefits

Cabbage

• Rich in vitamin C
• Good source of fiber
• Contains antioxidants
• Supports digestive health

Ground Beef

• High-quality protein
• Rich in iron
• Excellent source of vitamin B12
• Provides zinc and selenium

Tomatoes

• Contain lycopene antioxidants
• Source of vitamins A and C
• Add natural acidity and flavor

Variations

Cheesy Version

Add:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar
• 1 cup mozzarella

Sprinkle on top and cover until melted.

Keto Version

Use:

• No tomato paste
• Unsweetened canned tomatoes

Keeps carbohydrates lower.

Spicy Version

Add:

• 1 diced jalapeño
• Extra red pepper flakes
• Dash of hot sauce

Italian Style

Add:

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• Fresh basil

Vegetable-Packed Version

Add:

• Mushrooms
• Bell peppers
• Zucchini
• Spinach

Storage

Refrigerator

Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer

Freeze for up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

A: Yes. Ground turkey, chicken, or pork work well. You may need a little extra seasoning because they are milder in flavor.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?

A: Absolutely. The flavors often improve after a day in the refrigerator.

Q: Why is my cabbage watery?

A: Cabbage naturally releases moisture as it cooks. Simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce excess liquid.

Q: Do I need to cook the cabbage first?

A: No. The cabbage cooks directly in the skillet and absorbs the flavors of the beef and sauce.

Q: Can I use red cabbage?

A: Yes. It will slightly change the flavor and turn the dish a darker purple-red color.

Q: What can I serve with it?

A: Popular options include:

• Rice
• Mashed potatoes
• Egg noodles
• Garlic bread
• Cauliflower rice
• Side salad

Q: How do I know when it’s done?

A: The beef should be fully cooked and the cabbage should be tender but not mushy. Most people prefer about 12–15 minutes of simmering.

Serving Suggestion

Top each bowl with:

• Fresh parsley
• Green onions
• Shredded cheese
• Sour cream
• Crushed red pepper flakes