Hearty Baked Cabbage and Ground Beef with Parmesan Potatoes

Are you looking for a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy? Look no further than this delicious recipe for Baked Cabbage and Ground Beef with Parmesan Potatoes. This dish combines the savory flavors of seasoned ground beef and tender cabbage with the crispy, cheesy goodness of Parmesan-coated potatoes. Perfect for a family dinner, this meal is both nutritious and flavorful. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients and Kitchen Equipment Needed

Ingredients for the Cabbage and Ground Beef

  • 1 onion, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Italian herbs, to taste
  • Nutmeg, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Paprika, to taste
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 young onion, chopped
  • Fresh dill, chopped
  • 5-6 tablespoons white yogurt
  • 2 teaspoons tomato paste
  • 1 cabbage, cut as shown in the video
  • 500 g ground beef

Ingredients for the Parmesan Potatoes

Kitchen Equipment

  • Oven
  • Baking sheets
  • Mixing bowls
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Parchment paper
  • Spatula

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Cabbage and Ground Beef

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Prepare Onion Mix: In a bowl, mix the chopped onion with salt, Italian herbs, nutmeg, black pepper, paprika, and minced garlic.
  3. Add Herbs and Sauce: Chop the young onion and dill, and add them to the bowl. Mix in the white yogurt and tomato paste until well combined.
  4. Prepare Cabbage: Cut the cabbage as shown in the video and place the pieces on a baking sheet lined with baking paper. Season with salt and black pepper.
  5. Add Ground Beef: Spread the ground beef evenly over the cabbage.
  6. Spread Sauce: Spread the prepared sauce over the ground beef.
  7. Bake: Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 45 minutes.

Preparing the Parmesan Potatoes

  1. Prepare Potatoes: Cut the potatoes into desired shapes and place them in a bowl.
  2. Season Potatoes: Add salt, black pepper, paprika, minced garlic, and vegetable oil to the potatoes. Mix well to coat evenly.
  3. Bake Potatoes: Place the seasoned potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Grate 60 g Parmesan cheese and sprinkle half of it over the potatoes. Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 15 minutes, then turn the potatoes and bake for another 15 minutes until golden and crispy.
  4. Add Parsley and Cheese: Chop fresh parsley and mix with the remaining Parmesan cheese. Add to the potatoes after baking and mix well.

Serve

  1. Serve Hot: Serve the baked cabbage and ground beef alongside the Parmesan potatoes. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty meal is perfect for a cozy family dinner. Pair it with a simple green salad for a complete meal. A glass of dry red wine or a refreshing iced tea would complement the flavors beautifully. For dessert, consider something light and fruity, like a lemon sorbet or a berry compote.

Tips and Variations

Tips for Perfect Results

  • Even Cooking: Ensure that the cabbage pieces are of similar size for even cooking.
  • Season Generously: Don’t skimp on the seasonings. They add depth and complexity to the dish.
  • Crispy Potatoes: For extra crispy potatoes, use a high-starch variety like Russet and make sure they are cut uniformly.

Variations

  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or use a mixture of mushrooms and lentils.
  • Cheesy Twist: Add some shredded cheese on top of the cabbage and beef before baking for an extra cheesy layer.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the potatoes or the beef mixture for a spicy kick.

Storing and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cabbage and ground beef in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The Parmesan potatoes can also be stored in a separate airtight container for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat the cabbage and ground beef in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. The potatoes can be reheated in the oven at 200°C (400°F) for 10-15 minutes to regain their crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?

Yes, red cabbage can be used, but it will give the dish a slightly different flavor and a vibrant color.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prepare the cabbage and beef mixture in advance and refrigerate it. Bake it fresh when you’re ready to serve. The potatoes are best made fresh to maintain their crispiness.

What other cheeses can I use for the potatoes?

You can use other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano as substitutes for Parmesan.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked cabbage and ground beef recipe is a perfect blend of textures and flavors. The tender, slightly sweet cabbage pairs beautifully with the savory ground beef, all topped with a tangy yogurt sauce. The Parmesan potatoes add a delightful crunch and a cheesy flavor that complements the main dish perfectly. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal that’s simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Conclusion

This Baked Cabbage and Ground Beef with Parmesan Potatoes recipe is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. The combination of tender cabbage, flavorful beef, and crispy Parmesan potatoes is irresistible.