If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you have to try this Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe. It’s a fantastic one-pan dish where tender cabbage mingles beautifully with flavorful, spiced ground beef, creating a perfect balance of savory, smoky, and slightly tangy notes. The best part? It comes together so quickly with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Trust me, this skillet recipe is going to be your new go-to for busy weeknights or anytime you want something satisfying, flavorful, and downright delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with this recipe is a breeze because it only requires a handful of essential ingredients that all play an important role. Each component brings a unique flavor, texture, and touch of color that makes this dish so vibrant and comforting.
- 1 small cabbage, chopped: Adds a wonderful crunch and a mild sweetness that balances the savory beef.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty, savory base that brings richness and protein to the skillet.
- 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz): Provides acidity and moisture, brightening the dish with juicy, tomatoey goodness.
- 1 cup onions, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth as they caramelize and become tender.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the dish with that irresistible pungent aroma everyone loves.
- 1 tablespoon bouillon powder: Boosts umami and enhances all the other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Offers an earthy, warm spice note that ties everything together.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds just a hint of heat to wake up the palate without overwhelming it.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Gives a beautiful smoky depth and vibrant color.
- Salt, to taste: Essential for balancing and amplifying all the flavors.
How to Make Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large pan over medium heat and placing the ground beef inside. Use a spoon to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks. Browning the beef properly is crucial because it develops a rich, caramelized flavor that forms the foundation of the dish. Cook until the beef is nicely browned and no pink remains.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Push the cooked beef to one side of the pan to make room for the aromatics. Toss the chopped onions and minced garlic into the empty space. Sauté them until the onions are soft and translucent and the garlic releases that fragrant, mouth-watering aroma. This step builds a flavor base that compliments the beef perfectly.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Spices
Stir in the diced tomatoes along with the bouillon powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and salt. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about five minutes. This simmering lets those vibrant spices meld together with the acidity of the tomatoes and richness of the beef.
Step 4: Cook the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage into the pan and stir everything together so the flavors combine. Cover the pan and allow the cabbage to cook until tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the skillet looks dry, add a splash of broth or water to help the cabbage steam and soften perfectly while keeping the dish juicy.
Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serve
Give everything a taste and adjust the salt if needed. Once the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully, your Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe is ready to serve hot, straight from the pan for full comfort food vibes.
How to Serve Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling some fresh herbs like chopped parsley or green onions over the top just before serving adds a pop of brightness and freshness. For an extra indulgent touch, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese can take this dish to the next level.
Side Dishes
This skillet stands well on its own, but pairing it with crusty bread or a simple side salad can round out the meal nicely. If you want something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice are fantastic companions that soak up all the delicious juices.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, turn this recipe into a filling for stuffed bell peppers or roll the mixture into large lettuce leaves for a low-carb option. You can also serve it over cooked noodles or even as a warm topping for baked potatoes for added comfort and variety.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from the Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the skillet completely before refrigerating to keep the flavors fresh and the texture intact.
Freezing
This dish also freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, label them, and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, place the desired amount in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a little water or broth can help maintain moisture. Alternatively, microwaving works well for a quick meal, just cover loosely to retain steam.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be great alternatives if you want a lighter or different flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed.
Is it necessary to use bouillon powder?
While it adds a nice depth of flavor and umami, you can substitute with beef broth or a well-seasoned broth cube if that’s what you have on hand.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or extra beans, and use vegetable bouillon. The cabbage and spices will still shine beautifully.
How spicy is this dish with the cayenne pepper?
The amount of cayenne is mild and just adds a gentle warmth. You can easily leave it out or increase it depending on your spice preference.
What type of cabbage works best?
Green cabbage is most commonly used and works well here, but savoy cabbage or even napa cabbage can add interesting texture and flavor if you want to experiment.
Final Thoughts
This Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe is one of those meals that feels like it was made with love. It’s easy, quick, and packed with comforting flavors that will have you coming back for seconds. Whether you’re feeding family or need a reliable dish for weeknight dinners, give this recipe a try and enjoy the tasty, hearty goodness!
Print
Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty and flavorful Cabbage and Ground Beef recipe combines tender cabbage with savory seasoned ground beef and diced tomatoes. Enhanced with a blend of spices including cumin, smoked paprika, and a hint of cayenne pepper, this dish is a comforting one-pan meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. The cabbage cooks down to a tender texture while soaking up the rich flavors of the beef and spices.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 small cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup onions, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Meat
- 1 lb ground beef
Pantry Items
- 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
- 1 tablespoon bouillon powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Place the ground beef in a large pan over medium heat. Use a spoon to break up the meat as it cooks. Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Push the cooked beef to one side of the pan. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the empty side. Sauté them until the onions are softened and the garlic releases its aroma.
- Add Tomatoes and Spices: Stir in the diced tomatoes along with bouillon powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and salt. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and allow it to simmer gently for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Cook the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the pan and stir well to combine all ingredients. Cover the pan with a lid and cook until the cabbage is tender, stirring occasionally. If the mixture becomes too dry, add a small amount of broth or water to help steam the cabbage.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the dish and adjust the salt if needed. Serve the cabbage and ground beef hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute bouillon powder with beef broth for added flavor.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the spiciness level.
- If preferred, add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
