Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is the ultimate one-pan wonder for busy weeknights. This rustic and savory dish brings together tender sautéed cabbage with flavorful ground beef, all simmered in simple spices that highlight the natural sweetness of the vegetables. It’s budget-friendly, packed with protein, and perfect for feeding a family without the hassle of multiple pots or fancy ingredients.
Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this dish offers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. The cabbage softens beautifully while absorbing all the beefy goodness, turning it into a luscious, warming skillet meal. Serve it on its own, over rice, or with crusty bread to mop up every last drop. It’s a true kitchen staple you’ll want in your rotation.
Ingredients for this Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional for umami)
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s fully browned. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add olive oil to the skillet along with the diced onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Add minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage
Toss in the chopped cabbage, stirring to combine it with the beef mixture. Cook for 5-7 minutes, letting the cabbage wilt and caramelize slightly around the edges.
Step 4: Season and Simmer
Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and soy sauce. Pour in the beef broth, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and infused with flavor.
Step 5: Serve
Remove the lid, stir everything well, and serve hot. This skillet meal pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, or even mashed potatoes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make this recipe low-carb?
Skip the broth and use minimal soy sauce. Serve as is without rice or bread.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey makes a leaner version of this skillet and still delivers great flavor.
How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking the beef.
What other vegetables go well with this dish?
Try adding shredded carrots, bell peppers, or even mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
Is it okay to use red cabbage?
Yes, red cabbage works too. Just note the color will be more vibrant and slightly different in flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, it’s great for meal prep. Cook the full recipe and store in portioned containers for easy meals throughout the week.
Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
Description
Warm, rustic, and easy to make, this Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is your answer to weeknight dinner dilemmas. Combining affordable, everyday ingredients into a single pan, this quick dinner is packed with savory flavors, making it a favorite comfort food across the seasons. Ideal for anyone looking for healthy snack or dinner ideas without sacrificing flavor, it brings together cabbage’s mellow sweetness and beef’s satisfying heartiness. If you love food ideas that are wholesome and easy to throw together, this skillet recipe is a must-try. With its one-pan simplicity, it’s also a great option for busy families or solo cooks wanting easy recipes that make great leftovers.
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small head green cabbage, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tbsp soy sauce (optional for umami)
1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and brown the ground beef. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add olive oil and diced onion. Cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add chopped cabbage. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Season with paprika, salt, pepper, and soy sauce.
- Pour in beef broth, reduce heat, and cover. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir well and serve hot.