Cheap Homemade Dog Food Recipe Using Cabbage & Ground Beef

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

Have​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌ you ever thought about what is mixed up in your dog’s food? Many of us are concerned about the artificial things and mystery meats in commercial dog food.

It is hard to understand if they are really getting what they need.

But the fact is that providing your dog with healthy and wholesome food does not have to be expensive. It is very easy to prepare great and nutrient-rich meals at home without any ​‍​‌‍​‍‌​‍​‌‍​‍‌uncertainty.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade dog food recipe uses simple, affordable ingredients like cabbage and ground beef.
• It’s packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients to keep your dog healthy and happy.
• Prep time: About 15 minutes.
• Cook time: About 25 minutes.
• Serving size: Makes about 6-8 cups of food, depending on the ground beef fat content.

Ingredients List

• 1 pound (450g) lean ground beef (about $5.00 – $7.00)
• 4 cups (about 1 medium head) green cabbage, finely chopped (about $1.50 – $2.50)
• 2 cups (400g) cooked brown rice (about $1.00 for uncooked rice)
• 1 large carrot, shredded (about $0.50)
• 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth (low sodium, no onion/garlic) (about $0.50)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (about $0.20)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried kelp powder (for iodine and minerals) (about $0.10)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric (for anti-inflammatory benefits) (about $0.05)

Total Estimated Cost: $8.85 – $11.85

Substitutions:

• Ground beef: You can use ground turkey or ground chicken.
• Brown rice: Cooked quinoa or rolled oats are good alternatives.
• Carrot: Sweet potato (cooked and mashed) works well too.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Get a big pan or pot ready and put it on medium heat.
• Add the ground beef to the hot pan and break it up with a spoon.
• Cook the beef until it’s all browned, which usually takes about 7-10 minutes.
• Drain any extra fat from the pan.
• Now, add the finely chopped cabbage and shredded carrot to the pan with the beef.
• Pour in the chicken broth and stir everything together.
• Let it all simmer for about 10-15 minutes, until the cabbage and carrots are soft.
• Stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom.
• Once the veggies are soft, mix in the cooked brown rice, olive oil, kelp powder, and turmeric.
• Stir everything really well to combine all the ingredients.
• Take the pan off the heat and let the food cool down completely before serving it to your dog.

Feeding Guidelines

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): Feed about 1/2 to 1 cup per day.
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): Feed about 1 1/2 to 2 1/2 cups per day.
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): Feed about 3 to 4 cups or more per day.
• This is just a general guide, so remember that every dog is different.
• Puppies, very active dogs, or pregnant/nursing dogs might need more food.
• Older dogs or less active dogs might need a bit less.
• It’s always a good idea to chat with your vet. They can give you personalized advice for your dog’s specific needs and health.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Lean Ground Beef: This is a fantastic source of high-quality protein, which helps build and repair muscles. It also provides essential amino acids for overall health.
• Cabbage: It’s loaded with fiber, which is great for digestion and keeping things regular. Cabbage also has Vitamin K, Vitamin C, and antioxidants.
• Brown Rice: This provides complex carbohydrates for sustained energy throughout the day. It’s also a good source of fiber and B vitamins.
• Carrots: These add fiber and are packed with beta-carotene, which is good for vision and skin health.
• Olive Oil: A healthy fat source, it contains Omega-6 fatty acids for a shiny coat and healthy skin.
• Kelp Powder: This natural supplement provides essential minerals, especially iodine, which is crucial for thyroid function.
• Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, it can help with joint health and overall wellness.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Once cooked and cooled, you can store this dog food in an airtight container in the fridge.
• It stays fresh for about 3-4 days this way.
• For longer storage, divide the food into daily portions and freeze them.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• When you’re ready to serve, thaw frozen portions in the fridge overnight.
• You can serve the food at room temperature or warm it up slightly in the microwave for a few seconds.
• Some dogs like it mixed with a little warm water or a low-sodium broth to make it extra appealing.
• You can also mix it with their regular kibble to slowly transition them or to add extra flavor and nutrients.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Is this recipe nutritionally complete for all dogs?

While this recipe offers great nutrients, it’s designed as a healthy, affordable meal. For long-term feeding as a dog’s sole diet, talk to your vet. They might suggest adding a canine-specific multivitamin and mineral supplement to ensure it meets all AAFCO guidelines for complete nutrition.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add dog-safe veggies like green beans, spinach, or pumpkin. Just make sure they’re cooked and in appropriate portion sizes. Avoid onions, garlic, grapes, and avocados.

My dog is a picky eater, how can I introduce this?

Start by mixing a small amount of the homemade food with their usual kibble. Gradually increase the homemade portion over several days. Sometimes warming it slightly can make it more enticing.

What if my dog has a sensitive stomach?

Cabbage can sometimes cause gas in sensitive dogs. Start with a smaller amount of cabbage or try steaming it longer. Introduce new foods slowly and watch for any digestive upset. If issues persist, consult your vet.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home with simple ingredients like cabbage and ground beef is a great way to show them love. It’s affordable, and you know exactly what they’re eating.

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