If you’re searching for a comfort meal that’s big on flavor and requires just one pan, this Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is guaranteed to hit the spot. This cozy classic brings together perfectly seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, and bright tomatoes in a delicious tomato-charged sauce. It’s hearty enough to keep you satisfied, but light enough for busy weeknights. Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for the week ahead, Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet promises to deliver a taste of home in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple, using kitchen staples that come together for incredible flavor. Each ingredient is chosen for its role in bringing a perfect balance of savory richness, tang, and freshness to your skillet dinner.
- Ground beef: The star protein of our skillet, it adds heartiness and incredible savory flavor.
- Olive oil: Just a tablespoon helps sauté the onions, adding a subtle richness and preventing sticking.
- Onion: Diced onion brings gentle sweetness and builds the flavor base of the dish.
- Garlic: Just two cloves brighten everything, infusing the skillet with irresistible aroma.
- Green cabbage: Chopped cabbage becomes meltingly tender and soaks up the flavors, adding bulk and nutrition.
- Diced tomatoes: Use undrained canned tomatoes for their juicy tang and gorgeous color.
- Tomato paste: Just a tablespoon enriches the tomato flavor and gives the sauce body.
- Paprika: Adds beautiful color and a mild smokiness that subtly deepens each bite.
- Dried oregano: A sprinkle of herbs lifts the skillet, providing earthy Mediterranean notes.
- Salt: Enhances every element, ensuring balanced flavors throughout.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle bite and complexity without overpowering the dish.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Include if you like just a bit of warming heat in your skillet.
- Fresh parsley (optional): Chopped parsley is the perfect finishing garnish for a pop of freshness and color.
How to Make Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet
Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns soft and translucent. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds more. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen starts to smell amazing and inviting.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add your ground beef directly to the skillet. Break it up with your spatula as it browns, cooking for about 6 to 8 minutes. The beef should be fully cooked and no longer pink. If you notice excess fat building up, just drain it off for a lighter skillet meal.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage
Stir in the chopped green cabbage, making sure it gets mixed in with all that flavorful beef and onion. Cook it for about 5 minutes, stirring every so often. You want the cabbage to begin softening, though it should still have a little crispness at this point.
Step 4: Tomatoes and Seasonings
Now’s the moment to add those juicy diced tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and starting to look like a unified skillet dinner.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Lower the heat, cover your skillet, and let it all simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. The cabbage will become meltingly tender, and the flavors will mingle beautifully. Once everything looks saucy and delicious, remove from heat and get ready to serve your Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Finish your skillet by sprinkling with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. The bright green brings freshness and makes the dish pop. Serve it hot and enjoy the cozy comfort of every bite!
How to Serve Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley really elevates the finished dish with vibrancy. For added richness, you could also grate a touch of Parmesan or crumble feta over each serving—both are delicious with the dish’s savory notes. If you love a little zesty punch, consider squeezing fresh lemon juice on top right before serving.
Side Dishes
This Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is a star all on its own, but it pairs perfectly with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette. If you’re making it a full spread, roasted potatoes or steamed rice make great sidekicks. And don’t forget: a dollop of sour cream is never out of place here!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, scoop the skillet mixture into roasted bell pepper halves and bake them for a few minutes before serving. Or, serve it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting, filling dinner. You can also try wrapping a spoonful in a warm tortilla for a speedy, savory wrap—great for lunch or on-the-go dinners.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let your Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet cool to room temperature before packing leftovers in airtight containers. Stored in the fridge, it keeps beautifully for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to deepen, making reheated portions taste just as delicious—which makes it perfect for meal prep!
Freezing
For longer storage, portion cooled skillet portions into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It freezes well for up to 3 months. To prevent freezer burn, press out as much air as possible before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm your Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until steaming hot. You can also microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if the sauce seems too thick after chilling or freezing.
FAQs
Can I use a different ground meat instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are fantastic alternatives and both work wonderfully in this recipe. You’ll still get that savory, comforting base—just slightly lighter in flavor and calories.
How can I make the Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet low carb?
If you’re skipping tomatoes to stay low carb, simply leave out the diced tomatoes and tomato paste—or substitute with a small amount of low-sugar tomato sauce. The skillet still comes together beautifully, keeping carbs to a minimum.
Does the dish get watery?
The cabbage and tomatoes will naturally release some liquid as they cook, which makes a lovely light sauce. If you prefer a thicker consistency, let the skillet simmer uncovered for the last few minutes so some of the liquid can reduce.
What’s the best way to chop the cabbage?
Remove the tough core first, then slice the cabbage into thin shreds or bite-size pieces. Uniform pieces cook more evenly, making every bite delightfully tender.
Can I prepare Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet ahead of time?
You sure can! In fact, this dish tastes even better after the flavors have mingled overnight. Cook completely, cool, and refrigerate—just reheat when you’re ready to serve for a nearly effortless meal.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been looking for a cozy new favorite or just want to make weeknights easier, this Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet could be your new go-to. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable, so you can truly make it your own. Give it a try and savor the comfort of a home-cooked classic tonight!
Print
Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is a flavorful one-pan meal that is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner. The combination of tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, and aromatic spices creates a satisfying dish that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
Ground Beef:
- 1 pound ground beef
Vegetables:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
Seasonings:
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion and cook until softened. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Add Cabbage: Stir in chopped cabbage and cook until it begins to soften.
- Season and Simmer: Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and seasonings. Cover and simmer until cabbage is tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- For a low-carb version, omit the diced tomatoes and use tomato sauce or skip tomato products entirely.
- You can also substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
