This easy, comforting Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is the perfect weeknight dinner! Packed with savory flavors from seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, and a tangy tomato base, this dish comes together in one pan for a quick, hearty meal. It’s a great way to enjoy a satisfying, healthy dinner without a lot of fuss. Whether you’re looking for something cozy for a cool evening or a simple dish for busy nights, this recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Cabbage and Ground Beef Recipe
One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one skillet.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a nutritious option for the whole family.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that are easy to find.
Customizable: Easily adjust the spices and ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Now, let’s dive into the recipe to create this delicious skillet dinner!
Ingredients
- 1 small cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
- 1 cup onions, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon bouillon powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
Ingredient Tips
Cabbage: Use green cabbage for a classic flavor, or try red cabbage for a slightly different taste and a pop of color.
Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef (85% lean) to reduce fat content, or substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes with added herbs like basil or oregano can enhance the flavor profile. No-cook canned tomatoes save time and provide a rich base.
Bouillon Powder: If you prefer, you can use beef or vegetable bouillon cubes. Just dissolve them in a bit of hot water before adding.
Spices: Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the heat level. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper altogether.
Instructions Outline
1. Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat the Pan: Place a large pan or cast-iron skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef.
- Brown the Beef: Use a wooden spoon to break up the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, you can drain it off.
- Add Onions and Garlic: Move the ground beef to one side of the pan and add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the other side. Cook until the onions are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add Tomatoes and Spices
- Incorporate Tomatoes: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes (with their juice) and stir them into the ground beef mixture.
- Season: Add the bouillon powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and salt to taste. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer on medium-high heat. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Cook the Cabbage
- Add the Cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage, ensuring it is evenly coated with the tomato and spice mixture.
- Cover and Cook: Cover the pan with a lid and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Check Seasoning: Taste the mixture and adjust salt or spices as needed.
4. Serve
- Serve Hot: Spoon the cabbage and ground beef skillet onto plates or into bowls.
- Optional Garnishes: Top with freshly chopped parsley or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and presentation.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is fantastic on its own, but you can also serve it with:
Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.
Crusty Bread: Pair with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Potatoes: Serve alongside mashed potatoes or roasted baby potatoes for a comforting side.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freeze: This dish freezes well. Cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until hot, stirring occasionally.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or extra cayenne pepper for a spicier version.
Cheesy Cabbage and Beef: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the top and cover for a few minutes until melted.
Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or extra beans like kidney or black beans for a vegetarian version.
Add Veggies: Include other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for added color and nutrition.
Asian-Inspired Twist: Replace cumin and paprika with ginger and soy sauce for an Asian-inspired flavor profile.
Final Note
This Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is an easy, delicious meal that brings together hearty ingredients and bold flavors. With just a few steps and ingredients, you can have a comforting dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Give it a try, and enjoy the cozy, home-cooked goodness!
Cabbage and Ground Beef
Ingredients
- 1 small cabbage chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 cup onions chopped
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon bouillon powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Beef:
- Place the ground beef in a large pan or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon and cook until browned.
- Cook Onions and Garlic:
- Move the browned meat to one side of the pan and add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the empty space. Sauté until softened.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices:
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and add the bouillon powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 5 minutes on medium-high heat. Taste and adjust salt as needed.
- Cook the Cabbage:
- Add the chopped cabbage to the pan, stirring to combine. Cover and cook until the cabbage is tender, about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.