Cabbage Favorite
A hearty, comforting dish featuring ground beef, tender cabbage, and savory V-8 juice, perfect for family dinners and those craving a flavorful, easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown ground chuck and chopped onion in a skillet.
- Drain well to remove excess fat.
- Layer in a Dutch oven: ground chuck and onion, then chopped cabbage, salt, and pepper.
- Repeat layers until all ingredients are used.
- Pour enough V-8 juice over the layered mixture to reach the top of the layers.
- Cover the Dutch oven with a lid.
- Simmer for 30 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or spices like paprika to the ground chuck while browning. If you don't have V-8 juice on hand, tomato juice or vegetable broth can be a great substitute. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Make sure to chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish with crusty bread or over cooked rice for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for added freshness. For a comforting drink, try a warm Cranberry Citrus Warmer to complement the flavors of the cabbage.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until heated through, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage Favorite contains roughly 45 calories, with 3g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (70% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 802mg per serving (35% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground chuck with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based option for a vegetarian version. Adjust cooking times accordingly as leaner meats may cook faster.
How can I add more flavor to the dish?
For added depth, consider incorporating herbs like thyme or bay leaves between the layers. You could also add diced tomatoes or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra umami.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and heat gently on the stove.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).