If you are craving something hearty, wholesome, and bursting with flavor, this Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe is just what your kitchen needs. It’s a fantastic one-pan meal that brings together tender cabbage, richly seasoned ground beef, and a blend of spices that warm you from the inside out. This dish is not only quick and straightforward but also a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting, homey dinner without any fuss.

Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Keeping the ingredient list short and simple makes this Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe accessible yet packed with delicious layers of flavor. Each component plays an important part, whether it’s adding texture, a burst of freshness, or a depth of seasoning.

Cabbage: Adds a mild crunch and subtle sweetness that balances the savory beef perfectly.
Ground Beef: Provides rich protein and a juicy, meaty base for the dish.
Diced Tomatoes: Bring acidity and freshness which brighten the skillet flavors.
Onions: Contribute sweetness and a tender bite when sautéed.
Garlic Cloves: Minced to infuse warm, aromatic notes.
Bouillon Powder: Enhances umami and deepens the broth taste in the mix.
Cumin: Adds an earthy, slightly smoky dimension.
Cayenne Pepper: Brings a subtle heat that awakens the palate.
Smoked Paprika: Offers depth and a gentle smoky flavor for complexity.
Salt: Essential to balance and amplify all the other flavors.

How to Make Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by placing the ground beef into a large skillet over medium heat. Use a spoon or spatula to break it apart as it cooks, letting it brown thoroughly. This caramelization step adds irresistible flavor and forms the savory base of your dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Push the browned beef to one side of the pan and add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the other side. Cook them gently until the onions soften and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma—this creates a wonderful flavor foundation.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Pour in the diced tomatoes along with the bouillon powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. Then lower the heat and let it simmer for about five minutes so the flavors can meld beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Cabbage

Add your chopped cabbage to the skillet and stir it in to combine with the tomatoes and beef. Cover the pan and allow the cabbage to soften, stirring occasionally. If the mixture feels dry, add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist and steaming. This step makes the cabbage tender while soaking up all those savory juices.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Give your skillet a final taste and adjust the salt or spices as needed. When everything is perfectly seasoned and the cabbage is tender, it’s time to serve up this soul-satisfying Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe hot and fresh.

How to Serve Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can bring a delightful burst of color and freshness. You might also add a dollop of sour cream or a grating of sharp cheddar to elevate the creamy and tangy notes alongside the robust skillet flavors.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs perfectly with simple sides like warm crusty bread or steamed rice to soak up all the delicious juices. For a lighter approach, a crisp green salad dressed with a tangy vinaigrette complements the heartiness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe over roasted sweet potatoes or inside warm pita pockets for an easy handheld meal. You can also top it with a fried egg for a special brunch spin that will impress any guest.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cabbage and ground beef skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen as it rests, making the next meal just as satisfying as the first.

Freezing

This recipe freezes wonderfully. Simply cool the skillet completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and store for up to three months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm everything evenly. Add a splash of broth or water if it looks dry. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cabbage for this recipe?

Absolutely! Green cabbage is traditional, but you can experiment with savoy or napa cabbage to add a slightly different texture and flavor that still pairs beautifully with the ground beef.

Is this dish spicy?

The cayenne pepper adds just a subtle hint of heat, but it’s easily adjustable. If you prefer mild flavors, reduce the cayenne or eliminate it altogether without compromising the overall taste.

Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken work well as leaner alternatives. You may want to adjust cooking times slightly and consider adding a bit more seasoning to keep the robust flavor.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it contains no wheat-based ingredients. Just be sure your bouillon powder doesn’t contain gluten additives by checking the label.

Can I add other vegetables to this skillet?

Definitely. Feel free to toss in diced bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to increase the vegetable variety. Just add them when you sauté the onions to ensure they cook through.

Final Thoughts

This Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe is a real winner for anyone looking for an easy, flavorful, and comforting meal. With its simple ingredients and generous seasoning, it’s a dish that quickly becomes a favorite in any household. I encourage you to give it a try and enjoy the cozy, satisfying flavors it brings to your table.

Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe

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3.8 from 76 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

This hearty and flavorful Cabbage and Ground Beef recipe combines tender cabbage with savory ground beef and a blend of aromatic spices for a comforting one-pan meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Produce

1 small cabbage, chopped
1 cup onions, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced

Meat

1 lb ground beef

Canned Goods & Spices

1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
1 tablespoon bouillon powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt, to taste

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Instructions

Cook the Ground Beef: Place the ground beef in a large pan over medium heat. Break up the beef with a spoon and cook until browned, ensuring there is no pink left and the meat is cooked through.
Sauté Onions and Garlic: Push the browned beef to one side of the pan. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the empty side. Sauté until the onions become soft and translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the canned diced tomatoes, bouillon powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
Cook the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the pan and stir well to combine with the meat and tomato mixture. Cover the pan with a lid and cook until the cabbage is tender, stirring occasionally. If the mixture dries out, add a little water or broth to maintain moisture.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust the salt as needed. Once the cabbage is tender and all flavors are well blended, serve the dish hot.