If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that comes together in one pan and bursting with flavor, this Ground Beef & Cabbage Skillet Recipe is your new best friend. It’s a beautiful blend of savory ground beef mingling with tender green cabbage and a touch of sweetness from grated carrot, all enhanced by a warm mix of spices. This dish is not only delicious but also wholesome, easy to prepare, and perfect for those busy weeknights when time is short but satisfaction is a must.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the secret to making this dish shine. Each one has a special role—from the juicy, rich ground beef to the crisp, vibrant cabbage that adds wonderful texture and color. Together, they create a balanced, flavorful skillet meal that feels like a warm hug on your plate.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides the hearty protein base that’s juicy and full of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the onion and beef while adding a subtle fruity note.
- 1 small yellow onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 3 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the dish with that irresistible aromatic punch.
- 1/2 head green cabbage (shredded, about 4 cups): Brings crispness and bulk, perfectly softening with cooking.
- 1 medium carrot (peeled and grated): Introduces a natural sweetness and a pop of color.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and a warm tone.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers an earthy herbaceous flavor that’s just right.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Provides a gentle heat kick, customizable to your taste.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Gives a rich, tangy depth and helps bind the flavors together.
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water: Keeps the skillet juicy and helps the cabbage cook to tender perfection.
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Adds a fresh, vibrant finish.
How to Make Ground Beef & Cabbage Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the onion and garlic
Start by heating olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced yellow onion and cook it gently for 2 to 3 minutes until it begins to soften and develop that golden sweetness. Then stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant; this step wakes up the whole dish with its inviting aroma.
Step 2: Brown the ground beef
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it apart evenly and cook until it’s nicely browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Browning the beef properly is key because it builds tons of flavor. If there’s excess grease, feel free to drain it to keep the dish from getting too greasy.
Step 3: Add tomato paste and spices
Stir in the tomato paste to coat the beef beautifully, lending richness and a subtle tang. Sprinkle in the paprika, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them, plus a good pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Mix everything well so the spices can mingle and infuse the beef.
Step 4: Incorporate the vegetables and broth
Now, it’s time to add your shredded cabbage and grated carrot right into the skillet. Pour in the beef broth or water, which will help create steam to soften the cabbage perfectly. Give it all a good stir to combine, then cover your skillet with a lid and let it cook for 8 to 10 minutes. Don’t forget to stir occasionally so nothing sticks or burns.
Step 5: Final simmer and seasoning
Remove the lid and cook uncovered for about 2 more minutes. This extra step helps reduce any remaining liquid, concentrating all those wonderful flavors. Take a moment to taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed. Finally, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for that fresh, herby note and serve it piping hot.
How to Serve Ground Beef & Cabbage Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
A little parsley goes a long way by lifting the dish’s flavors and adding brightness. For a creamy contrast, a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can be delightful. If you want a bit more zing, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar complements the cabbage’s natural sweetness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Ground Beef & Cabbage Skillet Recipe shines all on its own, but pairing it with buttery mashed potatoes or fluffy cauliflower rice rounds out the meal perfectly. A crisp green salad on the side would add freshness, and some crusty bread can soak up any delightful juices left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, stuff the cooked mixture into roasted bell peppers or serve over baked sweet potato halves for a wholesome meal variation. You could also scoop it into warm lettuce wraps for a light, low-carb delight that’s perfect for sharing with friends or family at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Ground Beef & Cabbage Skillet Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This makes it a super convenient option for meal prep or quick lunches. Just make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before storing to keep everything fresh.
Freezing
You can freeze any leftovers by placing the cooled skillet contents into a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag. It should maintain best quality for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat this dish gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of water or broth to bring back some moisture. Stir occasionally to heat evenly and preserve that lovely texture of the cabbage.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be excellent leaner alternatives while still absorbing all the wonderful spices and flavors in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as they may cook a bit faster than beef.
Is it necessary to use beef broth, or can I substitute something else?
You can easily substitute beef broth with water or vegetable broth. The broth adds a hint of richness, but water works fine if you’re aiming for a lighter version. Just be sure to season well for great flavor.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Ground Beef & Cabbage Skillet Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your tomato paste and seasonings don’t contain any hidden gluten. It’s a perfect choice if you’re avoiding gluten and craving a filling meal.
How spicy is this dish really?
The crushed red pepper flakes are optional and used sparingly, so the dish has just a gentle hint of heat. You can easily adjust the amount or omit it completely if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Definitely! Diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini would be great additions and can be added along with the cabbage. Just keep in mind the cooking time might vary slightly depending on what you add.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef & Cabbage Skillet Recipe has quickly become one of my favorite weeknight go-tos because it’s just so comforting and satisfying with minimal fuss. It’s a brilliant way to enjoy a wholesome, flavorful dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own — trust me, it hits that perfect spot every single time!
Print
Delicious Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and flavorful Ground Beef & Cabbage Skillet that’s perfect for a quick, low-carb, and gluten-free dinner. This one-pan dish combines tender sautéed cabbage and grated carrot with perfectly seasoned ground beef, simmered together for a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and full of nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients
Meat and Pantry
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 head green cabbage, shredded (about 4 cups)
- 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Spices
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the Oil and Sauté Onions: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until slightly softened, creating a flavorful base for the dish.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it to maintain the aromatic flavor.
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon while cooking, and continue until it is browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain any excess grease if necessary to keep the dish from being too oily.
- Season the Meat: Stir in tomato paste, paprika, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. This seasoning mixture enriches the meat with depth and slight heat.
- Add Vegetables and Liquid: Mix in shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and beef broth or water. Stir everything to combine well, ensuring the cabbage and carrots are evenly distributed.
- Simmer Covered: Cover the skillet and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but not mushy, allowing flavors to meld and vegetables to soften.
- Reduce Liquid: Remove the lid and cook for an additional 2 minutes to reduce any excess liquid, enhancing the texture and flavor of the skillet meal.
- Adjust Seasoning and Garnish: Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Garnish the skillet with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot for a fulfilling dinner.
Notes
- Great for meal prep; store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy twist.
