Instant Pot Cabbage Stew with Ground Beef

There’s something incredibly comforting about a hearty bowl of stew, especially when it’s packed with fresh vegetables and rich, savory meat. This Instant Pot Cabbage Stew with Ground Beef is exactly that — a warm, filling meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Thanks to the Instant Pot, this dish comes together quicker than traditional stews, locking in flavors and tenderizing the cabbage to perfection without hours of simmering. The combination of fire-roasted tomatoes, smoky paprika, and a hint of cumin brings depth to the stew while the ground beef adds satisfying protein. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for busy days, this stew hits all the right notes.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Instant Pot Cabbage Stew with Ground Beef quickly earns a spot in your dinner rotation for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, with minimal chopping and no need for complicated techniques. The Instant Pot does most of the work, so you can walk away and come back to a delicious, ready-to-eat meal. Second, it’s wholesome and balanced — vegetables, protein, and a flavorful broth all in one pot. Third, it’s versatile and easy to customize with whatever spices or add-ins you prefer. Finally, it’s budget-friendly without skimping on taste, making it perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week.

The Ingredient Lineup

• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing and flavor base
• 1 sweet onion, diced – Adds natural sweetness and depth
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – Essential aromatic for savory punch
• 1 ½ pounds ground beef – Lean or regular, your choice
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste – Intensifies the tomato flavor
• 1 15 oz can fire-roasted tomatoes – Adds smoky, rich tomato character
• 1/8 teaspoon red pepper flakes – Just a touch of heat
• 1 tablespoon sweet paprika or smoked paprika – For vibrant color and smoky warmth
• ½ teaspoon cumin – Earthy undertones that complement beef
• 1 teaspoon oregano – Classic herbaceous note
• 1 green cabbage, medium to large, core removed and roughly chopped – The star vegetable, tender and slightly sweet
• 2 cups beef broth or chicken broth – Creates a rich, flavorful base
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasoning

Tools of the Trade

• Instant Pot or electric pressure cooker – The magical appliance that speeds up cooking and enhances flavors
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – For sautéing ingredients without scratching your pot
• Sharp knife and cutting board – To prep onions, garlic, and cabbage efficiently
• Measuring spoons and cups – Accuracy matters for balanced seasoning

Instant Pot Cabbage Stew with Ground Beef Cooking Guide

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Beef

Press the “Sauté” button on your Instant Pot and add the olive oil. Once shimmering, toss in the diced sweet onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Then, add the ground beef. Break it up with your spoon and cook until it’s browned all over, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Stir in the tomato paste, mixing it thoroughly with the beef and onions. This step deepens the tomato flavor. Add the fire-roasted tomatoes along with their juices. Then sprinkle in the red pepper flakes, paprika, cumin, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir to combine.

Step 3: Add the Cabbage and Broth

Layer the roughly chopped green cabbage evenly over the beef mixture. Pour in the beef broth (or chicken broth) to cover the ingredients. Do not stir at this point to avoid burning the tomato paste on the bottom.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to sealing. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” button and cook on high pressure for 8 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow a natural pressure release for 5 minutes, then carefully quick release the remaining pressure.

Step 5: Final Touches and Serve

Open the lid and gently stir the stew to mix the cabbage and beef evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper if needed. Serve warm in bowls, perfect on its own or with a side of crusty bread or warm tortillas.

Fresh Takes Through the Year

• In fall and winter, add diced carrots and potatoes for extra heartiness.
• During spring, toss in fresh green beans or peas for a lighter feel.
• Summer calls for a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or sprinkle of fresh parsley on top to brighten the stew.
• Try swapping ground beef for ground turkey or lamb for a different flavor profile.
• Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce for deeper umami notes.

Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary

• Why fire-roasted tomatoes? They bring a smoky, complex flavor that elevates the stew beyond basic tomato sauce.
• Choosing your paprika: Sweet paprika offers mild warmth, while smoked paprika adds a distinctive smoky aroma—both work beautifully.
• Don’t skip the natural release: It allows the cabbage to finish cooking gently, preventing it from becoming mushy.
• Adjusting heat levels: Red pepper flakes can be increased or omitted based on your spice tolerance.
• Ground beef choice: Lean beef keeps the stew less greasy, but a bit of fat adds flavor and richness.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

This Instant Pot Cabbage Stew with Ground Beef stores beautifully in airtight containers. Keep refrigerated for up to 4 days, making it a perfect option for meal prepping. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stove or microwave until hot throughout. The flavors often deepen after a day or two, making leftovers even more delicious.

Common Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb can substitute ground beef if you prefer. Just note that cooking times remain the same, but the flavor profile will change slightly.

What if I don’t have an Instant Pot?

You can make this stew on the stovetop in a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven. Brown the beef and onions, add the remaining ingredients, cover, and simmer gently for about 45 minutes until the cabbage is tender.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Diced carrots, potatoes, bell peppers, or green beans all make great additions. Just keep in mind that denser vegetables may need to be added earlier or cooked longer.

How spicy is this stew?

The recipe includes just a pinch of red pepper flakes for mild heat. You can easily adjust it by adding more or skipping them altogether depending on your taste preferences.

Explore More

• Looking for a melt-in-your-mouth beef dish? Try the Instant Pot Mississippi Pot Roast for a flavorful slow-cooked alternative.
• If you love beef and want a handheld snack, check out these crispy Beef Taquitos.
• For a hearty soup with a twist, the Stuffed Pepper Soup is a comforting choice that complements this stew style beautifully.

Before You Go

This Instant Pot Cabbage Stew with Ground Beef is not only a delicious, wholesome meal but also a wonderful way to enjoy the humble cabbage with a meaty, tomatoey twist. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners and makes fantastic leftovers. The balance of spices and fresh ingredients will have you coming back for seconds and experimenting with your own variations. Be sure to bookmark this recipe and keep your Instant Pot handy for many more hearty, flavorful meals to come.

Give this recipe a try tonight and savor the satisfying warmth of a stew that’s as easy as it is delicious!

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