Copenhagen Cabbage

Prep: 15 min Cook: 40 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: European

Copenhagen Cabbage is a hearty, savory dish combining seasoned ground beef with tender cabbage, perfect for comforting family dinners or cold-weather meals.

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1/4 cup minced onions
  • 16 oz can tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon cloves

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef and minced onions in a skillet.
  2. Drain excess fat from the beef mixture.
  3. Mix together the tomato sauce, salt, cinnamon, and cloves.
  4. Add the sauce mixture to the beef and onions, blending well.
  5. Layer 2 cups of shredded cabbage in a 2-quart casserole dish.
  6. Add half of the meat mixture over the cabbage layer.
  7. Repeat layering with remaining cabbage and meat mixture.
  8. Cover the casserole and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding some garlic or bell peppers to the beef mixture. If you're looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef. You can also experiment with different spices, such as oregano or basil, to give it a twist. Ensure the cabbage is finely shredded for better layering.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Copenhagen Cabbage hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside German Meatballs. This dish also makes a great lunch the next day.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Copenhagen Cabbage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for convenience.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Copenhagen Cabbage contains roughly 395 calories, with 7g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 832mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).

395 kcal 20% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.2g 14% DV
Total Fat 20.4g 26% DV
Carbs 47.7g 17% DV
Fiber 3.8g 14% DV
Sugar 10.6g 21% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 831.8mg 36% DV
Potassium 579.6mg 12% DV
Cholesterol 0.9mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 240.7mcg 27% DV
Vitamin C 31.4mg 35% DV
Calcium 168.3mg 13% DV
Iron 2.8mg 16% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal

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 in this recipe?

Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute if you're looking for a vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, as different meats may require different browning times.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake it, simply cover it with foil and bake at the recommended temperature, adding a few extra minutes if it's coming straight from the fridge.

Can I freeze Copenhagen Cabbage?

Yes, you can freeze this dish. Just make sure it cools completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.

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).

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