If comfort food had a secret superhero, it would be the Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet. This hearty one-pan wonder brings together tender cabbage, juicy ground beef, sweet-tangy tomatoes, and the perfect blend of spices, all crowned with melty cheese if you choose. It’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, delivering big flavor with surprisingly simple ingredients. Whether you’re in need of a quick weeknight dinner or aiming to please a crowd with minimal fuss and maximum satisfaction, this dish has you covered.

Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is that its flavor-packed results come from a handful of straightforward, easy-to-find ingredients. Each one plays an essential role, from providing rich, savory depth to adding that pop of color and freshness that makes this skillet truly irresistible.

Olive oil: Adds a hint of richness and helps everything sizzle beautifully without sticking.
Ground beef: The star of the skillet, lending savory, hearty flavor and satisfying protein.
Onion: Gives a sweet and aromatic foundation, creating layers of flavor right from the start.
Garlic: Brings boldness and a mellow, nutty zip as it cooks.
Green cabbage: Offers a pleasant crunch that softens to tender goodness, soaking up all the wonderful flavors.
Diced tomatoes: Bring acidity, juiciness, and a touch of sweetness that balances the dish.
Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato richness and gives a lovely, thick consistency.
Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle, sultry smokiness that elevates everything else on the plate.
Dried oregano: Delivers herbal notes that brighten up each bite.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors to life and keeping each ingredient in harmony.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Perfect for a gentle, lingering heat if you like things a bit spicy.
Shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional): Melts into gooey, golden perfection right before serving (totally irresistible).
Chopped parsley (optional): A fresh, colorful, and lightly peppery finishing touch.

How to Make Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and break it up with a spoon as it cooks. You want it nicely browned all over, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. If your beef releases a lot of fat, don’t hesitate to drain off the excess—this ensures your Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet tastes hearty, not heavy.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Next, add your chopped onion and minced garlic right into the pan with the beef. Let them cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions turn translucent and the kitchen fills with that irresistible aroma. This simple step makes a big difference, infusing every bite of your skillet with fragrant, savory depth.

Step 3: Add and Wilt the Cabbage

Toss in the chopped cabbage and give everything a good stir. Allow the cabbage to cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring here and there, until it starts to soften and shrink. It’s amazing to see how a big mound of cabbage cooks down into tender leaves that soak up all the meaty juices and flavors.

Step 4: Stir in Tomatoes, Seasonings, and Simmer

Now it’s time to add the undrained diced tomatoes and tomato paste, along with smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re craving a little heat. Stir the skillet well so everything gets evenly coated. Lower the heat, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 10 to 12 minutes. During this time, the cabbage will become meltingly tender and all those flavors will marry into pure comfort.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Parsley

If you love things cheesy (and who doesn’t?), sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the top just as you uncover the skillet. Give it a minute to melt into gooey goodness. Finally, shower on some chopped parsley for a burst of green freshness that makes your Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet both delicious and beautiful.

How to Serve Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet

Garnishes

The right garnish takes this dish from homey to downright inviting. A generous handful of chopped parsley brings a fresh, peppery note and vibrant color. If you really want to impress, try a sprinkle of extra cheese, a crank of freshly ground black pepper, or even a light dusting of smoked paprika as a finishing touch.

Side Dishes

While the Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet stands strong on its own, pairing it with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or warm crusty bread is always a treat. For a lighter meal, serve alongside a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette—perfect for balancing out the skillet’s hearty flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a twist, spoon the mixture into ramekins and top with cheese before broiling for a mini casserole effect. Or, serve skillet-style at the table and let everyone dig in family-style. If you have leftovers, wrap the filling in tortillas for an inventive next-day burrito or tuck it into bell peppers for a stuffed-vegetable makeover.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet makes delicious leftovers. Store any cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal even better.

Freezing

This skillet is freezer-friendly, too! Once cooled, transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and taste.

Reheating

To reheat, simply place the desired portion back into a skillet over medium heat until it’s piping hot. If microwaving, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in short intervals, stirring in between for even warming. Add a fresh dash of cheese or parsley to brighten things up.

FAQs

Can I use a different type Main Course

Absolutely! While ground beef brings classic flavor, ground turkey or pork are fantastic alternatives for a lighter or different taste in your Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet.

Is the dish spicy?

The base recipe has just a whisper of heat, but you can easily leave out the red pepper flakes for a milder meal or double them up if you’re a spice lover.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Bell peppers, carrots, or even spinach can be added during the sauté step for extra color and nutrition without changing the spirit of this Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the base recipe uses naturally gluten-free ingredients. Just double-check your diced tomatoes and spices if you’re preparing for someone with a gluten allergy.

How do I make it low-carb?

This recipe is already low in carbs, making it a favorite among those seeking hearty but lighter meals. Serve it as is or pair it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a complete low-carb dinner.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a cozy, budget-friendly meal that’s big on flavor yet impossibly easy to pull together, you’ll fall in love with the Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet. Give it a try the next time you need a delicious dinner with minimal cleanup—this one might just become a new favorite in your kitchen!

Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 23 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

This Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is a delicious and comforting one-pan meal that is perfect for a quick and easy dinner. Tender cabbage, flavorful ground beef, and a blend of spices come together to create a hearty dish that the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef
1 small onion (chopped)
2 garlic cloves (minced)
1 small head green cabbage (cored and chopped)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese (optional)
Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to wilt.
Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine everything well.
Cover and simmer on low heat for 10–12 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
Uncover and sprinkle cheese on top, if desired. Let it melt before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.