If you’re craving something that feels like a warm hug on a plate but comes together quickly, you’re going to love this Easy & Hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe. It’s a brilliant one-pan wonder that combines juicy browned beef, tender cabbage, and a rich tomato base infused with smoky paprika and herbs. Each bite bursts with comforting flavors and a satisfying texture that makes it perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a nourishing meal without fuss. This dish not only pleases the palate but also keeps things simple in the kitchen, making it a definite go-to favorite to add to your culinary rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering straightforward, wholesome ingredients is the secret to this recipe’s success. Each one plays an important role: the ground beef brings heartiness and protein, cabbage adds crunch and freshness, and aromatic spices and tomato elements tie everything together with layers of flavor and beautiful color.
- 1 pound ground beef: Use fresh, good-quality beef for rich flavor and tender texture.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps brown the beef and soften the veggies with a touch of healthy fat.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth as it cooks down.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives the dish a lovely aromatic punch.
- 1/2 head green cabbage, chopped: Brings crunch and a tender bite after cooking down.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice): Adds juiciness and a rich tomato flavor that brightens the skillet.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato taste and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Infuses a smoky warmth that pairs wonderfully with the beef.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an herbal earthiness that enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Season to taste and brighten all the ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides subtle heat and complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a hint of spicy kick if you like a little heat.
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water: Keeps the skillet moist as everything simmers to tender perfection.
How to Make Easy & Hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with your spoon as it cooks to encourage even browning. This step is where you build that deep, savory base flavor. Once the beef is no longer pink, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from feeling greasy while keeping all that meaty goodness.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook them together for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes fragrant. This stage adds a sweet and aromatic layer that complements the beef perfectly and prepares the skillet for the star ingredient.
Step 3: Cook the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage right into the skillet. Cook it stirring frequently for 5 to 7 minutes until it starts to wilt. This lets the cabbage soak up the meaty flavors and soften without losing its pleasant texture. The cabbage adds a subtle earthiness and a touch of natural sweetness that balances the dish.
Step 4: Stir in Tomatoes and Seasonings
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, then add tomato paste, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want that extra heat. Pour in the beef broth or water as the base liquid. Mix everything thoroughly to combine flavors into a harmonious, saucy blend. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, allowing the cabbage to become tender and the sauce to thicken.
Step 5: Final Simmer and Adjust
Remove the lid and continue cooking for another 2 to 3 minutes. This helps any excess moisture evaporate so the flavors concentrate and the texture becomes just right — not soggy, but delightfully saucy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed for a personalized touch before serving.
How to Serve Easy & Hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or green onions on top. A dollop of sour cream or a grating of sharp cheddar cheese can add extra richness and creaminess. These little touches brighten the skillet and make each bite exciting and fresh.
Side Dishes
This skillet stands strong on its own but pairs beautifully with simple sides. Creamy mashed potatoes offer a soothing contrast, while steamed rice helps soak up the savory sauce. If you prefer something crunchy, rustic crusty bread is perfect for sopping up every flavorful bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve it inside a hollowed-out baked potato or over fluffy cauliflower rice to keep it low-carb. You could also use the skillet filling as a warm taco filling with soft tortillas or crisp lettuce wraps for a handheld, family-friendly meal. This flexibility makes the Easy & Hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe your versatile kitchen hero.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This recipe holds up wonderfully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Simply place leftover portions in airtight containers to keep the flavors fresh. When you’re ready for a quick meal, the flavors will have melded even more deliciously!
Freezing
If you want to stash some for longer, freeze the cooked skillet in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It freezes well without losing texture or flavor. Just leave some room for expansion and label with the date to enjoy within 2 to 3 months for best taste.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, or microwave in 1-2 minute bursts. Adding a splash of beef broth or water during reheating helps maintain moisture and keeps every bite tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works as a leaner alternative and will still taste great with the cabbage and spices. Just brown it thoroughly and follow the same steps for a lighter version.
Is this dish suitable for low-carb diets?
Yes! Since cabbage is low in carbohydrates and the dish focuses on ground beef and veggies, it’s naturally low-carb. Serve it on its own or with cauliflower rice for a perfect low-carb meal.
Can I add other vegetables to this skillet?
Definitely! Feel free to toss in chopped bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to add extra color, texture, and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the onion and garlic to integrate the flavors well.
What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika is an easy substitute that still delivers lovely color and mild warmth. A pinch of cumin can also add a nice smoky note.
How spicy is this recipe?
The recipe is mild by default with just a touch of black pepper. Adding crushed red pepper flakes gives it a pleasant, gentle heat. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste by increasing or skipping the red pepper flakes.
Final Thoughts
This Easy & Hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe is one of those comforting dishes that feels like it was made with love. Its simplicity, combined with bold flavors and satisfying textures, makes it a standout in my recipe collection. I can’t wait for you to try it out and make it your own — it’s perfect for busy nights or anytime you want a meal that’s truly comforting without requiring a ton of effort. Happy cooking!
Print
Easy & Hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb,Gluten Free
Description
This easy and hearty cabbage and ground beef skillet is a flavorful one-pan dinner perfect for weeknights. Ground beef is browned and combined with sautéed onions, garlic, and tender cabbage, simmered in a savory tomato and beef broth mixture seasoned with smoked paprika and herbs. It’s a low-carb, gluten-free meal that’s both comforting and nutritious.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 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 beef broth or water
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, 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 to keep the dish from becoming too greasy.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent, releasing their sweetness.
- Cook the Cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring often. This allows the cabbage to wilt and begin to soften without becoming mushy.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Add the beef broth or water as well. Stir all ingredients together to combine evenly.
- Simmer the Mixture: Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Let the mixture simmer for 10–12 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld together.
- Reduce Liquid: Remove the lid and cook for an additional 2–3 minutes to allow any excess liquid to evaporate, thickening the mixture slightly.
- Final Seasoning and Serve: Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if desired. Serve hot, optionally alongside rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for a more filling meal.
Notes
- For a low-carb meal, serve the skillet as is without additional sides.
- To make it more hearty, pair with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat nicely.
