This Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Meal is a hearty one-pan dish. With tasty beef and crunchy cabbage, it’s a great way to enjoy a simple dinner without much fuss!
Plus, it’s quick to make, so you’ll have more time to chill on the couch! I love to serve it with a sprinkle of cheese on top—because who doesn’t love a little cheesy goodness?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best for this dish. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you want a lighter option. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time since they may cook faster than beef.
Cabbage: Green cabbage is typical here, but you can use Savoy cabbage for a slightly sweeter taste or Napa cabbage for a more delicate texture. Red cabbage can also add a splash of color if you’re feeling creative!
Onion: I prefer yellow onions for their sweetness, but white onions or even shallots work well too! For a milder taste, consider using green onions instead.
Spices: If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will do, but you’ll miss that smoky flavor. You could also try chili powder for a spicy twist.
Cheese: Cheddar is delicious on top, but you can use mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a different flavor. Vegan cheese makes a great substitute for those who avoid dairy!
How do I get the Best Flavor from Ground Beef?
Getting great flavor from the ground beef is key to this dish. Start by browning it well. This will create a nice crust that adds depth to your meal. Here are some steps to ensure you get it just right:
- Make sure your pan is hot before adding the beef.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Let the beef sit without stirring for a minute or two to develop a good brown color.
How Should I Cook the Cabbage?
Cabbage should be tender but still have a crunch when done. Here’s how to achieve that perfect texture:
- After adding the cabbage, stir well to combine it with the beef.
- Add the broth or water to help steam the cabbage but remember not to overcook. Keep an eye on it!
- Covering the skillet helps speed up the cooking process, so let it sit for those 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally.
Enjoy this easy, tasty dish and the many ways you can switch it up!
Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Meal
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Time Needed:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, for a total of about 30 minutes from start to finish! A quick and satisfying meal that comes together smoothly on any busy night!
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion, cooking until it softens, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant. You want to make sure not to burn it!
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Next, increase the heat to medium-high and add in the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. Brown the beef thoroughly for about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat when it’s done, take a moment to drain it off.
3. Spice It Up:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. This will give your dish that wonderful flavor blend!
4. Add the Cabbage:
Now it’s time for the star of the dish! Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and mix it well with the beef. Pour in the beef broth or water to help steam the cabbage while it cooks. Mix it all together!
5. Cook Until Tender:
Cover the skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the cabbage to become tender but still retain a bit of crunch. Keep an eye on it!
6. Final Seasoning and Toppings:
Give the dish a taste, and feel free to adjust any of the seasonings as needed. If you’d like to add a cheesy touch, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and cover the skillet for a minute until it melts for that gooey goodness.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color before serving. This dish is perfect on its own or can be paired with rice, potatoes, or some crusty bread. Enjoy your delightful and hearty meal!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Meal
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great leaner option. Just be mindful that it cooks faster than beef, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking. The cooking times are similar, but you may want to adjust slightly based on how finely ground the turkey is.
What If I Don’t Have Cabbage?
If you don’t have cabbage on hand, you can substitute it with other veggies like shredded kale or bell peppers. Just remember that these alternatives may cook differently, so adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they’re just tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can add a splash of water or broth to help rehydrate the dish while reheating!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! This recipe is versatile. You can add in vegetables like carrots, peas, or zucchini. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time so that all the veggies cook evenly without becoming mushy.
