Hamburger and Cabbage

This Hamburger and Cabbage recipe is a hearty, budget-friendly dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and a touch of seasoning, it delivers satisfying comfort in every bite. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s a versatile meal that pairs well with rice, noodles, or enjoyed on its own.

What is Hamburger and Cabbage?

Hamburger and cabbage is a simple, one-pan dish made with ground beef (commonly referred to as “hamburger” in this context and also known as Ground Beef and Cabbage) and cabbage as the main ingredients.

The dish typically involves sautéing or browning the ground beef, then cooking it together with cabbage, often seasoned with garlic, onion, and other spices or sauces.

It’s a hearty, economical meal known for its versatility, as it can be customized with additions like carrots, peppers, or soy sauce, and is enjoyed for its balance of protein and vegetables.

What is the origin if Hamburger and Cabbage?

It is believed to have roots in rustic, home-style cooking traditions. It draws inspiration from European cuisines, where cabbage and ground meats are staples, particularly in countries like Germany, Poland, and Russia.

Variations of the dish align with simplicity and affordability of, where ingredients like cabbage and ground beef are used to create filling, budget-friendly meals.

Over time, it has evolved into a comfort food staple in many households due to its versatility and ease of preparation.

What ingredients are needed to make Hamburger and Cabbage?

Vegan ground beef serves as a plant-based alternative to traditional meat, bringing a hearty texture and protein to the dish while absorbing the seasonings and sauces beautifully.

Cabbage, the star vegetable, adds natural sweetness, tenderness, and volume, perfectly complementing the savory components.

Vegetable oil is essential for sautéing, helping to brown the vegan ground beef and cook the cabbage evenly while carrying the rich flavors of garlic and paprika.

Garlic adds an aromatic depth, enhancing the dish’s savory profile and pairing well with the umami of soy sauce.

Soy sauce itself provides a salty, complex balance to the sweetness of the cabbage and the tang of diced tomatoes, which introduce a bright, saucy element.

Finally, paprika contributes warmth and a touch of smokiness, tying all the flavors together while adding a pop of vibrant color.

How to make Hamburger and Cabbage

Chop the small head of cabbage into bite-sized pieces and dice the garlic finely. If using fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes, chop them as well.

Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.

Add the chopped cabbage and the chopped garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens. 

In the same skillet, add the vegan ground beef, the seasonings, and soy sauce and cook, stirring often, about 5–7 minutes.

Stir in the diced tomatoes. Cook for another 3–5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cabbage to fully tenderize.

This simple process creates a savory, satisfying meal with bold flavors and hearty textures.

Serving Suggestions for Hamburger and Cabbage

Here are three serving suggestions for Hamburger and Cabbage:

• Over Steamed Rice: Serve the savory mixture over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice to create a comforting and well-rounded meal. The rice absorbs the flavorful juices, making each bite satisfying.
• With Crusty Bread: Pair the dish with a side of warm, crusty bread or dinner rolls for a hearty option. The bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce and adds a delightful texture contrast.
• As a Wrap Filling: Use the mixture as a filling for lettuce wraps or tortillas for a fresh and portable option. Add a drizzle of your favorite sauce, like spicy mayo or a tangy vinaigrette, to elevate the flavor.

Other Hamburger recipes you can’t miss

• Easy Hamburger Potato Casserole Recipe
• Burger Wraps
• Hamburger Steaks
• Cheeseburger Casserole
• Hamburger Helper

I hope you love making and enjoying this hearty Hamburger and Cabbage recipe as much as I do!

If you give it a try, snap a photo of your delicious creation and share it on Instagram or Facebook—don’t forget to tag me so I can see your masterpiece.

I’d also love to hear what you think, so leave a comment below with your feedback and a star rating—it means the world to me and helps others discover this recipe too!