There’s something magical about a weeknight meal that’s both hearty and lightning-fast, and that’s exactly why I adore this Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet. Imagine a tumble of gently braised cabbage mingling with savory, perfectly browned beef, all held together with pops of sweet onion, smoky paprika, and tomato richness. This dish is loaded with comforting flavors and gorgeous, contrasting textures—and it comes together in just one skillet. Whether you’re in need of a cozy family dinner or a quick solo supper, this Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet delivers satisfaction every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is how a handful of simple, everyday ingredients join forces to create something truly special. Each adds its own punch of flavor, texture, or color and transforms the humble skillet dinner into something you’ll want to make again and again.
- Ground Beef (1 lb, 85% lean): The star of the show—juicy, hearty, and full of protein; I find 85% lean gives you just the right touch of richness without being greasy.
- Green Cabbage (1 small head, chopped): Adds sweetness and tenderness as it cooks down, bulking up the dish beautifully.
- Yellow Onion (1 medium, diced): Delivers mellowed-out, natural sweetness when sautéed, becoming the aromatic base for everything else.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): A must for depth and a savory kick—freshly minced makes all the difference here.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Helps those aromatics sauté without sticking and brings a subtle fruity note.
- Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon): Infuses the whole skillet with warm, smoky charm that plays beautifully with the beef.
- Dried Thyme (1/2 teaspoon): Lends a woodsy, herbaceous flavor that ties in perfectly with the comfort vibe.
- Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For just a whisper of heat; adjust up or down based on your spice preference.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon, or to taste): Essential for bringing all the flavors into focus.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a tiny bit of bite without overpowering the other flavors.
- Beef Broth or Water (1/2 cup): A splash of liquid helps the cabbage soften and the flavors meld; broth brings extra savoriness.
- Tomato Paste (1 tablespoon): Deepens the flavor and gives a little umami boost and cozy color.
How to Make Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it shimmers, toss in your diced onion and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until just softened and translucent. Add in minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds. This quick step builds a flavorful foundation for your Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet, filling your kitchen with that irresistible aroma we all love.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef right into the pan with your golden, fragrant onion and garlic base. Use a wooden spoon to break apart the beef, letting it brown evenly. Give it about 5 or 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s cooked through and no longer pink. If you see excess fat, go ahead and drain a little off for a lighter final dish.
Step 3: Season and Add Tomato Paste
Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, dried thyme, red pepper flakes (if you like a touch of heat), salt, and black pepper. The tomato paste will deepen the taste and give the beef a gorgeous, glossy coating while the spices add warmth and depth. Mix until everything is thoroughly combined and fragrant.
Step 4: Add Cabbage and Broth
Pile the chopped cabbage into the pan—it will look like a lot at first, but don’t worry, it cooks down quickly! Pour in the beef broth or water, stir well, and make sure the cabbage gets a nice even toss through those savory seasonings. This cozy step is where the Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet starts to come together.
Step 5: Cover and Simmer
Pop on the skillet lid (or cover with foil if your skillet doesn’t have one), and let the mixture simmer for about 8 to 10 minutes. Stir once or twice as the cabbage softens and sweetens, absorbing the seasoned juices and melding perfectly with the beef.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove the lid and give the mixture a final stir. If there’s any excess liquid, let it cook uncovered for a few more minutes until most of it evaporates. Taste and adjust the seasoning one last time—then it’s ready to spoon into bowls and enjoy!
How to Serve Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet
Garnishes
Add a flourish with chopped fresh parsley or sliced green onions for a fresh pop of color and bite. If you’re feeling extra cozy, a shower of shredded sharp cheddar or a dollop of sour cream on top is sheer heaven on this Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet.
Side Dishes
This dish is so satisfying on its own, but you can round it out with a simple green salad, a side of roasted potatoes, or some warm, rustic bread for dipping. It also plays well with steamed rice or even cauliflower rice for a lighter touch.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the (skillet) box: pile your cabbage and beef mix into halved bell peppers and bake for a fun twist, or use it as a hearty filling for wraps and stuffed pita pockets. Leftovers also make a fantastic next-day lunch, either spooned over grains or tucked into meal-prep bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftover Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet to an airtight container once cooled. It will keep happily in the fridge for up to 4 days, making it perfect for packed lunches or no-fuss dinners later in the week.
Freezing
For longer storage, portion the skillet mixture into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Lay them flat in your freezer for even freezing and faster thawing later. This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months and tastes just as savory and satisfying after reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems a little dry. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave—just cover loosely so it steams gently. Stir occasionally for even heating.
FAQs
Can I swap ground beef for another protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or ground chicken are excellent lighter alternatives, bringing a milder flavor while still soaking up all those delicious spices. You may need to add a bit more olive oil for moisture.
How do I make this vegetarian?
Simply swap the ground beef for your favorite plant-based ground alternative or crumbled tempeh. Use veggie broth instead of beef broth, and you’ll still get that savory, hearty vibe.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is naturally gluten-free as written. Just double-check any packaged broth or other flavorings to make sure they don’t contain hidden gluten.
Can I make it spicier?
Definitely! Just increase the amount of red pepper flakes or stir in your favorite hot sauce near the end of cooking. You can even serve it with chili crisp or sriracha for extra punch.
What’s the best way to chop the cabbage?
Remove the tough core, then slice the cabbage into fairly thin shreds or bite-sized pieces. You can use a sharp knife or even a mandoline slicer if you like really delicate strands. This ensures the cabbage cooks evenly and gets that lovely, tender texture.
Final Thoughts
This Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet couldn’t be easier, but it’s absolutely packed with flavor and feel-good comfort. Give it a try the next time you crave something hearty and homey—you’ll quickly see why this has become a regular in my weeknight rotation!
