Hamburger Cabbage Recipe – Quick and Delicious Weeknight Dinner
Are you looking for a hearty, budget-friendly meal that comes together in under 30 minutes? This hamburger cabbage recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It’s nutritious, packed with flavor, and incredibly easy to make using just a handful of ingredients.
Whether you’re trying to eat low-carb, need a quick dinner fix, or simply want to use up ingredients in your fridge, this one-pan dish is the perfect solution. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this comforting classic with minimal effort!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This hamburger cabbage recipe is more than just a simple meal—it’s a crowd-pleaser that checks all the right boxes:
✅ Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
✅ Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable, everyday ingredients.
✅ Nutritious: Packed with protein and fiber, making it a wholesome meal.
✅ One-Pan Meal: Less mess, less cleanup, more convenience.
✅ Customizable: Easily tweak ingredients to suit your taste.
✅ Keto & Low-Carb Friendly: Skip the rice or pasta and enjoy a healthy, satisfying dish.
Now, let’s take a look at everything you need to get started!
Ingredients and Nutritional Breakdown
Ingredients List
To keep things simple, you’ll need the following basic ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb (450g) | Can swap with ground turkey |
| Green cabbage | 1 medium head | Chopped into thin strips |
| Onion | 1 small | Diced finely |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For sautéing |
| Soy sauce | 2 tbsp | Or coconut aminos for paleo |
| Salt & Pepper | To taste | Adjust as needed |
| Red pepper flakes | ½ tsp | Optional, for heat |
Nutritional Highlights
This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates and high in protein and fiber, making it a great choice for those watching their diet. A single serving (approx. 1 cup) contains:
- Calories: ~250
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1 – Prep Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, take a few minutes to prep everything:
✔️ Slice the cabbage into thin strips.
✔️ Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
✔️ Gather all other ingredients to streamline the cooking process.
Step 2 – Cook the Ground Beef
- Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef, using a wooden spoon to break it apart.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
- Drain excess grease if needed, but leave a little for flavor.
Step 3 – Add the Aromatics
- Stir in the diced onions and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
Step 4 – Incorporate the Cabbage
- Toss in the chopped cabbage and mix well.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens.
Step 5 – Season and Simmer
- Add soy sauce, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Mix everything together and allow it to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 6 – Serve and Enjoy!
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot as is, or pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or cauliflower rice.
💡 Pro Tip: Garnish with green onions or sesame seeds for an extra flavor boost!
Delicious Variations and Customizations
Looking to add your own twist to this dish? Here are some easy ways to customize it:
1. Low-Carb & Keto Version
- Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option.
- Swap soy sauce for coconut aminos to keep it paleo-friendly.
2. Spicy Kick
- Add sriracha or extra red pepper flakes for more heat.
- Toss in some jalapeños for an extra punch.
3. Cheesy Comfort Food
- Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar cheese before serving for a rich, creamy texture.
4. Asian-Inspired Stir-Fry
- Stir in a splash of sesame oil and ginger for an Asian-inspired flavor.
- Toss in some mushrooms and bell peppers for extra crunch.
Best Ways to Store and Reheat Leftovers
One of the best things about this recipe? It makes great leftovers!
Refrigeration:
- Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
- Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Tips:
- Heat in a skillet over medium heat for best texture.
- Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this hamburger cabbage recipe ahead of time?
Yes! It’s perfect for meal prep. Store portions in the fridge and reheat throughout the week.
What can I serve with hamburger and cabbage?
It pairs well with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad.
Can I use different meats for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground chicken, turkey, or sausage all work great.
What’s the best way to keep the cabbage from getting too mushy?
To keep it slightly crisp, cook for no more than 12 minutes after adding the cabbage.
Final Thoughts
This hamburger cabbage recipe is a quick, delicious, and nutritious meal that fits perfectly into any busy lifestyle. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, you can have a flavorful dinner on the table in no time.
