After a long day, the last thing I want is to spend hours in the kitchen. That’s where my Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet comes in—a quick solution for busy weeknights. This dish is not just about convenience; it’s a delightful blend of flavors that warms the soul. Picture tender cabbage mingling with savory ground beef, all cooked in one pan. It’s a meal that impresses without the fuss, making it perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to add it to your regular rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet
This Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is a game-changer for anyone juggling a busy schedule. It’s quick to prepare, taking just 40 minutes from start to finish. The one-pan method means less cleanup, which is always a win. Plus, the combination of hearty beef and tender cabbage creates a satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor. You’ll love how it brings everyone to the table, eager for seconds!
Ingredients for Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ground Beef: The star of the dish, providing rich flavor and protein. You can use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth. A medium onion, chopped, will do the trick.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a fragrant kick. It’s a must for that aromatic base.
Green Cabbage: This is the heart of the dish. Chopped cabbage adds texture and nutrients, making it a filling meal.
Diced Tomatoes: A can of diced tomatoes, undrained, adds moisture and a hint of acidity to balance the flavors.
Worcestershire Sauce: Just a teaspoon enhances the umami flavor, giving the dish a savory boost.
Spices: Paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. These spices elevate the overall taste.
Olive Oil: Used for sautéing, it adds healthy fats and a lovely flavor.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of chopped parsley at the end brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.
For those looking to customize, consider adding cooked rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. You can also experiment with spices like cumin or Italian seasoning for a unique twist. Exact quantities for each ingredient are available at the bottom of the article for easy printing!
How to Make Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this delicious Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time!
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onions are softened and translucent. This step builds a flavorful base for your dish, so don’t rush it!
Step 2: Add Garlic
Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook it for about 1 minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Garlic is essential here; it adds a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor that makes your dish irresistible. Keep an eye on it, as garlic can burn quickly!
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Increase the heat to medium-high and add 1 pound of ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Brown the beef for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. If there’s excess fat, drain it off to keep the dish from becoming greasy. You want that beef to be flavorful, not swimming in fat!
Step 4: Incorporate Cabbage and Tomatoes
Now it’s time to add the chopped cabbage and the can of diced tomatoes (with juice) to the skillet. Stir in 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and season with salt and black pepper. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. Mix everything well, ensuring the cabbage is coated in those delicious flavors.
Step 5: Cover and Cook
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. This is where the magic happens! Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage will wilt down and become tender, soaking up all those savory flavors. Covering the skillet helps steam the cabbage, making it perfectly soft.
Step 6: Final Touches
Once the cabbage is tender, taste your skillet creation. Adjust the seasoning if needed—maybe a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is now ready to impress!
Tips for Success
Use a large skillet to give ingredients room to cook evenly.
Don’t rush the sautéing process; it builds flavor.
Feel free to adjust spices to suit your taste preferences.
For added nutrition, toss in some chopped carrots or bell peppers.
Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days.
Equipment Needed
Large Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best, but any large pan will do.
Spatula: A sturdy spatula helps break up the ground beef easily.
Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for chopping onions and cabbage.
Lid: A lid for the skillet helps steam the cabbage.
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or a plant-based meat alternative for a hearty vegetarian dish.
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra layer of heat.
Asian Twist: Incorporate soy sauce and ginger, and serve with rice for an Asian-inspired version.
Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last few minutes of cooking for a melty finish.
Low-Carb Version: Replace cabbage with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that still packs flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the skillet.
Crusty Bread: Serve with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Drink Pairing: A light beer or iced tea pairs well with this hearty dish.
Presentation: Garnish with extra parsley and serve in colorful bowls for a vibrant table.
FAQs about Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet
Can I use a different type of meat in this skillet dish? Absolutely! While ground beef is the star here, you can easily swap it for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative. Each option brings its own unique flavor to the Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet.
How can I make this dish spicier? If you’re looking for a kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce. You can also increase the amount of red pepper flakes for an extra layer of heat in your Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet.
Can I prepare this meal ahead of time? Yes! You can chop the vegetables and brown the meat in advance. Store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just combine everything in the skillet and follow the cooking instructions. It’s a great way to save time on busy nights!
What can I serve with this skillet meal? This Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread. You could also serve it over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal. The options are endless!
How do I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Enjoy your delicious meal again!
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy at the dinner table. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will draw everyone in, eager to share a meal together. Each bite is a comforting reminder of home, filled with hearty flavors and simple ingredients. Whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying a quiet night in, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction. Plus, the ease of preparation means you can focus on what truly matters—spending time with loved ones and savoring the delicious results of your culinary adventure!
A quick and delicious skillet meal featuring ground beef and cabbage, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound ground beef
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small head of green cabbage, chopped (about 4 cups)
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes (with juice), Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
For a heartier dish, add 1 cup of cooked rice or quinoa during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Experiment with different spices like cumin or Italian seasoning for a flavor twist.
