Cabbage and Ground Beef Stew

Cabbage and Ground Beef Stew: The Ultimate Cozy Comfort Dish for Chilly Evenings

When the weather turns crisp and chilly, there is nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a hearty stew bubbling away on the stove. This Cabbage and Ground Beef Stew is everything you crave in a cozy meal — warm, filling, affordable, and incredibly easy to make. With tender cabbage, juicy ground beef, and a rich tomato-based broth, every spoonful delivers that perfect balance of homestyle goodness and wholesome nutrition.

This dish is the definition of comfort in a bowl. It is not only a lifesaver for busy weeknights, but also a family favorite that never goes out of style. Whether you are feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this stew guarantees satisfaction with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

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A Recipe Rooted in Tradition

Growing up, many of us remember a version of this stew simmering in the kitchen — perhaps made by a grandmother who knew how to stretch simple ingredients into something truly delicious. In many Eastern European and Mediterranean households, cabbage has always been a humble hero ingredient. Cheap, nutritious, and incredibly versatile, it was often combined with beef, onions, and tomatoes to create hearty meals that could feed the whole family.

Today, this timeless recipe continues to bring warmth and nostalgia to modern tables. It proves that sometimes, the simplest ingredients make the most memorable meals.

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Why You Will Love This Recipe

One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Everything cooks together in one pot, saving you time and dishes.
Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable staples like cabbage, ground beef, and canned tomatoes — ideal for families or anyone watching their grocery budget.
Rich and Flavorful: A slow simmer allows all the ingredients to meld into a deep, satisfying stew with just the right amount of spice and sweetness.
Easily Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables, spices, or proteins — this recipe is a blank canvas for creativity.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop further.

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Ingredients You Will Need

Here is what you will need to bring this hearty stew to life:

• 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 pound (450 g) ground beef
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Optional Add-Ins: carrots, celery, bell peppers, or diced potatoes for extra heartiness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
3. Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant, about three to five minutes.
4. Add the diced tomatoes with their juices, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the chopped cabbage and pour in the beef broth. Mix well so the cabbage begins to soften.
6. Bring to a simmer, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for about thirty minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Once the cabbage is tender and the stew has thickened slightly, taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
8. Serve hot and enjoy.

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Chef’s Tips and Variations

Make it Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce.
Boost the Nutrition: Toss in carrots, celery, zucchini, or spinach for added color and nutrients.
Try Different Proteins: Swap ground beef for turkey, pork, or sausage.
Add a Smoky Touch: Stir in a bit of smoked paprika or a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
Thicker Stew: Remove the lid during the last ten minutes to reduce the liquid naturally.

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Serving Suggestions

This stew is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with sides for an even more satisfying dinner.

• Serve with crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the flavorful broth.
• Spoon it over steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or egg noodles for a heartier option.
• Garnish with chopped parsley, shredded cheese, or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy finish.

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Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days.
Freeze: Let the stew cool completely, then freeze in portions for up to three months.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until hot. Add a splash of broth or water if it becomes too thick.

This stew tastes even better the next day, as the flavors deepen overnight. It is an ideal dish for meal prep or weekday lunches.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Brown the beef and sauté the onion and garlic first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for six to eight hours or on high for three to four hours until the cabbage is tender.

Can I use ground pork instead of beef?
Yes. Ground pork, chicken, or turkey all work well in this stew. You can even mix two types of meat for a richer flavor.

How can I make this vegetarian?
Replace the ground beef with lentils, beans, or a plant-based substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

What type of cabbage works best?
Green cabbage is the classic choice, but Savoy cabbage gives a softer texture, and Napa cabbage adds a slightly sweeter flavor.

Can I add grains or pasta?
Yes. Stir in cooked rice, barley, or small pasta shapes for a thicker, more filling stew.

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Nutritional Benefits

This stew is not only comforting but also nutritious.
Cabbage is rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
Beef provides high-quality protein and essential minerals like iron and zinc.
Tomatoes are packed with lycopene, which supports heart health.

Together, they create a well-balanced, nutrient-dense meal that is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights at home.

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Final Thoughts

This Cabbage and Ground Beef Stew proves that comfort food does not need to be complicated or expensive. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that is hearty, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. It is the kind of dish that warms both body and soul — perfect for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or lazy Sundays at home.

Whether you keep it traditional or add your own creative twist, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite. So grab your pot, chop up some cabbage, and let the rich aroma of homemade comfort fill your kitchen. You will be glad you did.