If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful meal that’s both simple and satisfying, this Cabbage Roll Skillet (Easy Keto Ground Beef Dinner) Recipe is an absolute winner. It captures all the cozy, nostalgic flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the fuss of rolling each one individually. With tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a cheesy finish, it’s a one-pan dish that brings warmth and hearty satisfaction to your table any night of the week, especially when you want to keep things keto-friendly and straightforward.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe relies on straightforward, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create a balanced mix of flavors and textures. Each one plays a key role, from the rich ground beef providing a savory base, to the crisp-tender cabbage adding fresh bite and color. The spices inject a smoky, zesty punch, while the melted cheddar cheese ties it all together with creamy goodness.
- 1 lb ground beef: Use fresh, preferably lean, to keep the dish hearty but not greasy.
- 1 yellow onion, chopped: Adds natural sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped: Brings a subtle crunch and bright color contrast.
- 1 small head of cabbage, cored & chopped: The star vegetable that softens perfectly, soaking up the sauce.
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes: Adds moisture and a slight tang to balance the richness.
- 2 tsp Tony Chachere’s Creole seasoning: Or your favorite Cajun/Creole blend to infuse bold, smoky heat.
- 2 tsp garlic powder: Delivers a mellow, aromatic punch without overpowering.
- 2 tsp smoked paprika: Intensifies the smoky flavor profile wonderfully.
- 1 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground for a little extra bite.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese: The melting crown that adds creamy, savory richness.
How to Make Cabbage Roll Skillet (Easy Keto Ground Beef Dinner) Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Vegetables
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, chopped onion, and bell pepper. Cook everything together until the beef is no longer pink and the veggies have softened nicely. This step builds the flavor foundation with savory meat juices and softened aromatics.
Step 2: Add the Flavorful Ingredients
Next, stir in the chopped cabbage, canned diced tomatoes (including their juices), garlic powder, smoked paprika, Creole seasoning, and black pepper. Mixing all these in ensures every bite sings with that perfect blend of smoky, spicy, and tangy notes.
Step 3: Simmer Until Tender
Cover the skillet and let everything simmer gently for 15 to 20 minutes. Give it an occasional stir so the cabbage softens evenly and absorbs the delicious tomato and spice-infused juices. This is where the magic happens as the textures meld into a comforting harmony.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Once the cabbage is tender, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top and cover the skillet again. Let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese melts into a golden, gooey layer that elevates the dish to the next level of indulgence.
Step 5: Serve Hot
Your Cabbage Roll Skillet (Easy Keto Ground Beef Dinner) Recipe is ready to enjoy! You can serve it right from the pan, or add a cooling dollop of sour cream on top for a creamy contrast. Each bite delivers satisfaction with minimal effort.
How to Serve Cabbage Roll Skillet (Easy Keto Ground Beef Dinner) Recipe
Garnishes
To give your skillet dish an inviting final touch, consider fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or green onions. A spoonful of sour cream or a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese can add creaminess and brightness. These simple additions bring freshness and a pop of color to each serving.
Side Dishes
This skillet meal is pretty complete on its own, especially for keto eaters, but you can pair it with a crisp green salad for extra crunch and freshness or roasted vegetables to deepen the flavor experience. Cauliflower rice or simple steamed broccoli also make excellent low-carb companions that won’t overpower the main attraction.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the skillet straight in the pan family-style for a cozy vibe, or dish it out into individual bowls for a more personalized touch. You could also wrap spoonfuls of the mixture in large lettuce leaves for an interactive, handheld way to enjoy the flavors—making it perfect for casual weeknight dinners or meal prep lunches.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your dinner, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator. The cabbage will continue to absorb flavors, making the next day’s meal even tastier. It’s best eaten within 3 to 4 days to enjoy peak freshness.
Freezing
This cabbage roll skillet freezes beautifully, which is perfect for busy weeks. Let it cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing taste or texture, ensuring you always have a delicious keto meal on standby.
Reheating
When reheating, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen, then warm gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through and the cheese is melty again. Stir occasionally if reheating on the stove to keep the textures evenly warmed and avoid drying out the dish.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar adds a nice sharp flavor and melts well, you can substitute mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky gouda for a tasty twist. Just choose cheeses that melt nicely and complement the dish’s bold spices.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb or keto diet?
Yes! This Cabbage Roll Skillet (Easy Keto Ground Beef Dinner) Recipe is crafted to be low in carbs by swapping traditional cabbage roll noodles with fresh cabbage. The ingredients keep it keto-friendly and filling without sacrificing flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based alternative or cooked lentils. You might want to add a little extra seasoning or umami boosters like soy sauce to enhance the depth of flavor that beef usually provides.
What can I do if I don’t have Creole seasoning?
No worries if Tony Chachere’s Creole seasoning isn’t on hand—use your favorite Cajun or Creole spice blend, or mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and herbs to replicate that warm, spicy flavor designed for this dish.
Can I add more vegetables to the skillet?
Yes, feel free to customize! Feel free to toss in chopped mushrooms, zucchini, or even spinach near the end of cooking to boost nutrition and variety. Just be mindful of any added moisture affecting cooking times.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about a dish that tastes like a comforting classic but comes together effortlessly in one skillet. This Cabbage Roll Skillet (Easy Keto Ground Beef Dinner) Recipe is one of those recipes that quickly becomes a weeknight favorite, offering rich, layered flavors and hearty textures without complicated steps. Give it a try and you’ll find yourself reaching for this simple, cozy meal time and time again.
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Cabbage Roll Skillet (Easy Keto Ground Beef Dinner) Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Cabbage Roll Skillet is a quick and easy keto-friendly dinner that captures the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the hassle of wrapping. Ground beef is browned with onions and bell peppers, then simmered with cabbage and diced tomatoes, seasoned with a flavorful Creole blend and smoked paprika. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, this hearty skillet meal is perfect for a low-carb dinner option that the whole family will love.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small head of cabbage, cored & chopped
Pantry Items & Seasonings
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp Tony Chachere’s Creole seasoning (or your favorite Cajun/Creole blend)
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp black pepper
Dairy
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with chopped onion and bell pepper until the meat is no longer pink and the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. This develops the base flavor for the dish.
- Add the flavor: Stir in the chopped cabbage, canned diced tomatoes, garlic powder, smoked paprika, Creole seasoning, and black pepper. Mix until ingredients are well combined.
- Cook until tender: Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the cabbage is soft and all the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the skillet mixture. Cover the skillet again and cook for a few more minutes until the cheese is completely melted.
- Serve hot: Enjoy the cabbage roll skillet warm, either as-is or with a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess and tang.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce along with the Creole seasoning.
- This recipe is perfect for meal prep and reheats well throughout the week.
- Use fresh shredded cheese for best melting results.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
- You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
