If you’re craving a dish that’s hearty, wholesome, and bursting with simple flavors, you’re going to love this Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet Recipe. It’s a wonderfully comforting meal that brings together tender, savory ground beef and the subtle crunch of cabbage, all cooked in one pan for easy cleanup. With just a handful of straightforward ingredients, this recipe transforms humble components into a satisfying dinner perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is a breeze, yet each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. Simple pantry staples come to life in this skillet dish.
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean or your preferred choice): The star protein that brings richness and depth to the dish.
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped (about 4 cups): Adds a lovely crunch and a fresh, slightly sweet flavor that pairs beautifully with the beef.
- 1 medium onion, diced: Adds aromatic sweetness and a subtle bite.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a warm, savory depth to the pan.
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil): For browning the beef and softening the veggies without sticking.
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste: Enhances all the flavors to make the dish pop.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Gives a gentle heat that balances the sweetness.
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional for added flavor): Adds subtle smokiness and a beautiful color.
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice): For those who like a little kick.
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water): Helps steam the cabbage and infuse the dish with savory goodness.
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional for depth of flavor): Brings umami and richness to tie everything together.
How to Make Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Brown the Beef
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart and cook it evenly until it’s fully browned and no longer pink, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step is where the meaty foundation of your dish develops its deep, savory flavor.
Step 2: Drain Excess Grease
After the beef is browned, carefully remove any excess grease from the skillet. This helps prevent the dish from being too oily while keeping all the rich flavors intact, perfect for the next steps when you soften the vegetables.
Step 3: Cook Onions and Garlic
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook them together for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently until the onions begin to soften and become translucent. This softens their sharpness and creates a flavorful base that compliments the beef wonderfully.
Step 4: Add Cabbage and Seasonings
Stir in the chopped cabbage, salt, black pepper, paprika if using, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Keep the heat at medium and cook for about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally as the cabbage wilts and softens slightly, marrying its mild sweetness with the savory meat.
Step 5: Introduce Liquids and Simmer
Pour in the beef broth and soy sauce, giving everything a good stir to combine. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for another 10 to 15 minutes over medium-low heat. This gentle simmer lets the cabbage tenderize fully and soak up all those wonderful, rich flavors.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Serve
Lift the lid and taste your skillet creation. Adjust the seasoning with a little more salt, pepper, or soy sauce as you prefer. Give it one last stir, and your warm, comforting Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet Recipe is ready to serve hot and fresh from the pan.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top before serving for a burst of color and fresh flavor that brightens the dish.
Side Dishes
This skillet dish pairs perfectly with crusty bread to soak up any juices, a simple steamed rice, or even a crisp green salad to keep the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the skillet mixture wrapped in warm tortillas or stuffed inside halved bell peppers for a handheld delight. It’s also fantastic spooned over baked potatoes or used as a filling for savory crepes.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. This dish keeps well for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for quick weekday lunches or dinners.
Freezing
If you want to keep it longer, this Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet Recipe freezes beautifully. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, covering the dish loosely to retain moisture, heating in 1-minute intervals until piping hot.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken will work well and make the dish lighter. Just brown the meat as usual and follow the same cooking steps.
Is it necessary to add soy sauce?
No, soy sauce is optional but recommended as it adds a lovely umami depth to the dish. If you omit it, just adjust the seasoning with a pinch more salt.
Can I add other vegetables to this skillet?
Yes! Feel free to toss in diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to boost the veggie quotient and bring more color and texture.
How spicy is this recipe with the red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth rather than intense heat. You can adjust the amount or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder flavor.
What can I serve instead of rice or bread?
Try cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative, or serve it over buttered noodles or mashed potatoes for a comforting twist.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet Recipe enough for when you want a cozy, satisfying meal without fuss. It’s quick to make, full of hearty flavors, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Give it a try and let this simple skillet dish become a favorite in your dinner rotation!
Print
Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage recipe is a quick, hearty, and flavorful skillet meal perfect for weeknight dinners. It combines savory browned ground beef with tender cabbage and aromatic spices, cooked together for a delicious one-pan dish that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean or your preferred choice)
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped (about 4 cups)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional for added flavor)
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional for depth of flavor)
Instructions
- Heat Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.
- Brown Ground Beef: Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain Excess Grease: Remove any excess grease from the skillet, if necessary.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and garlic to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened.
- Add Cabbage and Spices: Stir in the chopped cabbage, salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to soften.
- Add Liquids: Add the beef broth and soy sauce (if using) to the skillet, and stir everything together.
- Simmer Covered: Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or soy sauce as desired.
- Serve: Serve hot and enjoy this quick and flavorful meal!
Notes
- You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
- Using beef broth enhances the flavor, but water can be used as a substitute.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure soy sauce used is gluten-free or substitute with tamari.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or crusty bread.
