If you’re looking for a cozy, deeply satisfying one-pan meal that’s as unfussy as it is delicious, this Cabbage and Ground Beef skillet is about to become your go-to recipe. Imagine tender sautéed cabbage, juicy morsels of ground beef, sweet onions, a kiss of garlic, and the brightness of tomatoes, all melting together in just over half an hour. Whether you’re after a quick family dinner, meal prep for the week, or simply something that warms you from the inside out, Cabbage and Ground Beef delivers bold comfort and hearty flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this dish such a weeknight hero is the straightforward list of ingredients—each one plays its part to build a rich, colorful skillet meal. Every bite shines thanks to the basics done right, and you probably have most of them on hand already!
- Ground beef: Opt for 80/20 beef for full flavor, but leaner options also work beautifully.
- Olive oil: Helps everything brown and lends a hint of richness.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens in the skillet.
- Garlic: For an unmistakable fragrant kick—don’t skip it!
- Cabbage: Green cabbage is best here, chopped for even, tender bites.
- Diced tomatoes (with juice): Bring juiciness and a gentle tang to balance the beef and cabbage.
- Paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and warm color.
- Dried oregano: Offers a pleasant herbal note that brightens up the skillet.
- Salt and black pepper: These simple seasonings pull all the flavors together.
- Beef broth or water: Just enough liquid to help simmer everything to perfection.
- Optional red pepper flakes: Add a gentle heat if you love things a little spicy.
How to Make Cabbage and Ground Beef
Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once shimmering, add your chopped onion and let it cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns just translucent and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for another 30 seconds—it’ll become wonderfully aromatic right away.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Now, crumble in your ground beef. Break up any clumps and keep everything moving until the beef is thoroughly browned all over, about 6 to 8 minutes. If you see extra fat in the skillet, go ahead and drain it off—this keeps the dish light but still seriously flavorful.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage and Flavors
With the beef nicely browned, toss in your chopped cabbage, canned tomatoes with their juice, beef broth (or water), paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Give everything a really good stir so those flavors can mingle together and the cabbage gets coated in all that tasty goodness.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover your skillet, and let the mixture simmer for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir once or twice during this time—the cabbage will soften and everything will meld into a hearty, comforting skillet meal. Right before serving, taste and adjust salt and pepper to your liking.
How to Serve Cabbage and Ground Beef
Garnishes
This skillet meal is versatile when it comes to finishing touches. Sprinkle over fresh parsley or sliced green onions for brightness and a pop of color. A little dollop of sour cream or a light grating of sharp cheddar can take Cabbage and Ground Beef to the next level for creaminess and tang.
Side Dishes
Cabbage and Ground Beef is hearty enough to stand alone, but it plays exceptionally well with simple sides. Serve it with fluffy steamed rice to soak up the juices or a thick slice of crusty country bread for that unbeatable scoop-and-soak experience. For an even lighter meal, a crisp green salad on the side makes a lovely pairing.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to have fun with presentation, spoon the hot cabbage and ground beef mixture into hollowed-out bell peppers or baked potato skins for a playful, meal-in-one approach. For parties, portion into small cups for an easy-to-eat, cozy appetizer everyone will remember!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cabbage and Ground Beef is a meal prep dream—it keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in a tightly sealed container to retain its flavor and prevent it from picking up any fridge odors.
Freezing
This dish freezes exceptionally well thanks to its simple, sturdy ingredients. Let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-friendly bags or containers. Cabbage and Ground Beef will keep well frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, simmer leftovers gently in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to return some lost moisture. You can also microwave single portions in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring halfway for even heating.
FAQs
Can I substitute another meat for ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork are great substitutes if you want to lighten things up or just change the flavor profile. Each one brings its own twist to the classic Cabbage and Ground Beef feel.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth—Cabbage and Ground Beef can be just as satisfying and hearty without the meat.
What type Main Course
Classic green cabbage is the star here, offering a touch of sweetness and a tender bite. Savoy cabbage is a delicious alternative if you enjoy a slightly more delicate texture.
How can I make this dish extra flavorful?
Try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of tomato paste for bonus umami, or experiment with smoked paprika or caraway seeds if you want to play with new flavor notes in your Cabbage and Ground Beef.
Can I prepare this in advance for meal prepping?
This recipe is a meal-prepper’s best friend. Make a big batch of Cabbage and Ground Beef on Sunday, portion it out, and you’ll have several nights of hearty, quick dinners ready to enjoy with minimal fuss.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been craving a dinner that brings comfort, ease, and fantastic flavor all in one pan, it’s time to give Cabbage and Ground Beef a try. I promise, this humble combination is pure magic—don’t be surprised if this skillet meal gets requested again and again!
Print
Cabbage and Ground Beef 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
A simple and hearty recipe for Cabbage and Ground Beef, a delicious one-pan meal that is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. Tender cabbage cooked with seasoned ground beef in a savory tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients
Ground Beef:
- 1 pound ground beef
Other Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 small head green cabbage (cored and chopped)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- Optional red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Cook Onion and Garlic: Add chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add ground beef and cook until browned and crumbled, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add Remaining Ingredients: Add cabbage, diced tomatoes with juice, beef broth, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Cover and simmer on medium-low heat for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender and flavors have melded.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add Worcestershire sauce or tomato paste.
- This dish pairs well with rice or crusty bread.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 11g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
