Looking for a quick, budget-friendly, and delicious dinner that will satisfy the whole family? Our Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. This one-pan wonder is packed with flavor, easy to prepare, and perfect for weeknight dinners when time is short but you still want a hearty home-cooked meal.
In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a savory skillet dish filled with tender cabbage, juicy ground beef, and simple pantry ingredients that blend beautifully to create a comfort food classic. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a crowd, this recipe will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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One skillet, less mess: All ingredients come together in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze.
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Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes with simple steps and minimal prep.
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Wholesome and satisfying: Packed with protein, fiber, and flavor.
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Budget-friendly: Uses affordable ingredients you likely already have at home.
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Customizable: Easily adjust to your taste with added spices or veggies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
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1 lb ground beef (lean preferred)
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½ head of green cabbage, chopped
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tbsp olive oil or butter
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat, Worcestershire sauce for depth
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add ground beef to the skillet and break it apart using a spatula. Cook until no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 3: Add the Tomatoes
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and tomato paste. Mix well and season with smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and any optional spices.
Step 4: Add the Cabbage
Fold in the chopped cabbage. Cover the skillet and let everything simmer for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but not mushy.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Give it a final taste test and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot straight from the skillet. Garnish with fresh parsley or shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Tips for Best Results
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Use a large, deep skillet or sauté pan to prevent overflow when adding the cabbage.
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Don’t overcook the cabbage. It should be tender with a slight bite, not mushy.
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Add extra flavor: A splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce can deepen the umami.
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Bulk it up: Add cooked rice, potatoes, or bell peppers for a heartier version.
Nutritional Benefits
This meal is not only comforting but also provides a great balance of macronutrients:
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Protein: Ground beef offers a solid protein punch.
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Fiber: Cabbage contributes to digestive health and fullness.
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Lycopene & antioxidants: Tomatoes bring in antioxidants and support heart health.
Serving Suggestions
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Enjoy it as is for a low-carb, keto-friendly dinner.
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Serve with steamed rice or mashed potatoes for a classic comfort combo.
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Pair with a slice of rustic bread or cornbread to soak up the juices.
How to Store and Reheat
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Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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Reheat: Warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry.
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Freeze: Yes! Freeze in meal-prep containers for up to 3 months.
15 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this recipe.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your tomato paste and spices are gluten-free.
3. Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely. Try adding bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
4. Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
5. What kind of cabbage should I use?
Green cabbage is best, but Napa or Savoy can work too.
6. Do I have to drain the ground beef?
If your beef is fatty, draining it helps avoid a greasy texture.
7. Can I meal prep this recipe?
Yes! It reheats well and is perfect for meal prep lunches or dinners.
8. Is this recipe keto or low-carb?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs, especially without added starches.
9. Can I cook this in a cast iron skillet?
Definitely. Cast iron works great and gives a nice sear to the beef.
10. How long does it take to cook?
About 30 minutes from start to finish.
11. Can I add cheese on top?
Yes! Try cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy twist.
12. Can I make it vegetarian?
You can replace the beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles.
13. Does it freeze well?
Yes, store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
14. What should I serve with it?
Rice, potatoes, garlic bread, or even pasta work great.
15. Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just use a larger pan or divide it between two skillets.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe is the perfect blend of simple ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you’re looking to feed your family, meal prep for the week, or enjoy a comforting skillet dinner, this recipe checks every box. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and adaptable to whatever you have in your pantry.
Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- ½ head green cabbage chopped
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional:
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes for heat
- Fresh parsley or shredded cheese for garnish
Instructions
- Heat oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil or butter.
- Sauté onions & garlic: Add diced onions and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
- Brown ground beef: Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula (about 5–7 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add tomatoes & seasonings: Stir in diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato paste, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and any optional ingredients like Worcestershire or red pepper flakes.
- Add cabbage: Fold in the chopped cabbage. Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything cook for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but not mushy.
- Taste and adjust: Uncover and give it a taste — adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot: Dish up immediately. Garnish with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of shredded cheese, if desired.
