If you are looking for a delicious, hearty meal that combines simplicity with rich flavors, the Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish brings together tender, caramelized cabbage and perfectly browned ground beef, all enhanced by a blend of spices and a touch of garlic. Every bite is comfort on a plate, proving that uncomplicated ingredients can create something truly spectacular. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or craving a filling yet nutritious option, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing a vital role in building the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and color in the Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Provides a juicy, savory base packed with protein.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps soften the onions and cabbage with a subtle buttery flavor.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Brings sweetness and depth as it cooks down alongside the cabbage.
- 1 medium green cabbage, cored and chopped: Offers a satisfying crunch and earthy freshness that pairs beautifully with beef.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and a hint of sharpness.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky undertone and vibrant color.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Lends a fragrant herbal note to tie all the flavors together.
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or more, to taste): Keeps the mixture moist and enhances the meaty essence.
- Seasoning salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for boosting and balancing all the flavors.
- Sour cream (optional, for serving): Offers a creamy, tangy contrast that finishes the dish beautifully.
How to Make Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat and adding the lean ground beef. Break it up as it cooks so that it browns evenly and develops that delicious, savory crust. Aim for about 8 to 10 minutes until the beef is fully browned, as this step is what builds the foundation of flavor for your skillet masterpiece.
Step 2: Drain Excess Fat
Once the beef is browned, transfer it to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess fat. This keeps the dish from becoming greasy and lets the butter and veggies shine in the next step.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions in Butter
Add butter to the same skillet and toss in your chopped onions. Sauté them for about 3 minutes until they soften and start to turn translucent. This stage releases the onions’ sweetness, which perfectly complements the cabbage that’s coming next.
Step 4: Cook the Cabbage
Now it’s time to add the chopped cabbage to the pan. Cook it uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring frequently. You’ll notice the cabbage wilting and softening, with the onions starting to brown lightly, which adds a lovely depth of flavor. Don’t rush this—letting the cabbage cook low and slow really makes a difference in taste and texture.
Step 5: Add Garlic and Spices
Sprinkle in the minced garlic, paprika, and Italian seasoning, stirring to coat the vegetables. This blend of spices gives the skillet a warm, aromatic lift and a burst of color.
Step 6: Incorporate Broth and Beef
Pour in the beef broth and return the browned ground beef to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for a few more minutes until the beef is heated through and well combined with the cabbage mixture. Add a little more broth if you want a slightly saucier consistency.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Give your skillet a final taste and season with seasoning salt and pepper to your preference. The cabbage absorbs quite a bit of seasoning, so don’t be shy with the salt. Serve with a dollop of sour cream if you like, which lends a lovely creamy contrast to the savory skillet.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes to your Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe can transform the dish from simple to stunning. Fresh chopped parsley or green onions add a pop of brightness and a fresh flavor that pairs beautifully with the warming spices. If you love a little heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add just the right kick without overpowering the other flavors.
Side Dishes
This skillet pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it with crusty bread for soaking up any juices or a simple side salad to keep the meal fresh and light. Mashed potatoes or creamy polenta also complement the rich flavors beautifully if you want something a little heartier.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe in hollowed-out cabbage leaves or stuffed into large baked potatoes for a one-of-a-kind presentation. You could even use it as a filling for soft tacos or wraps, adding some shredded cheese and salsa to create a completely different but equally delicious meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It’s a fantastic meal prep option as the flavors continue to meld and improve after sitting overnight.
Freezing
If you want to keep the dish longer, it freezes beautifully. Transfer cooled leftovers to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be sure to label it so you remember this tasty gem is tucked away.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of beef broth or water to prevent drying out. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring between intervals until heated through. Adding a fresh dollop of sour cream after reheating lifts the flavors instantly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is classic for this skillet, ground turkey or pork can also work well. Just keep in mind that different meats will slightly change the flavor and fat content, so adjust the seasoning and cooking times accordingly.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, this Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe is naturally low in carbs, making it a great option for those watching their carbohydrate intake. The cabbage provides fiber and bulk without adding many carbs, and the beef supplies satisfying protein.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
You can! Simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based protein like lentils, crumbled tofu, or a meat substitute. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and non-dairy butter or oil. The seasonings and cooking technique remain the same for delicious results.
What can I add to make the dish spicier?
If you love heat, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes, a dash of hot paprika, or even a spoonful of your favorite hot sauce when you add the spices. Fresh chopped jalapeños stirred in with the cabbage can also bring a nice spicy punch.
Can I prepare this Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe in advance?
Definitely! You can prep all your vegetables ahead of time and even brown the meat the day before. When ready to eat, combine and finish cooking everything in the skillet. This saves time on busy days without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly rewarding about making the Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe that feels both homey and satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you create a dish bursting with comfort, warmth, and flavor that everyone will love. So next time you want a no-fuss, nourishing dinner on the table fast, this skillet recipe is exactly what you need. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight go-to!
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Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Ground Beef and Cabbage is a savory and hearty one-pan meal featuring lean ground beef cooked with tender green cabbage, onions, and flavorful seasonings. This easy stovetop recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, with a rich blend of paprika and Italian seasoning enhanced by beef broth. Optionally served with sour cream, it balances protein and veggies in a comforting dish.
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 tablespoons butter
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 medium green cabbage, cored and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or more, to taste)
- Seasoning salt and pepper, to taste
Optional
- Sour cream, for serving
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook, breaking it up as you go, until it’s nicely browned, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Drain Excess Fat: Transfer the browned beef to a paper towel-lined plate to remove excess fat. Drain any remaining fat from the skillet if necessary.
- Sauté Onions: Add the butter and chopped onions to the skillet and sauté for 3 minutes until onions begin to soften and become fragrant.
- Cook the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and cook uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring frequently until the cabbage is tender and begins to lightly brown along with the onions.
- Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, and Italian seasoning, cooking briefly to release their flavors.
- Combine with Beef and Broth: Pour in the beef broth, then add the cooked ground beef back into the skillet. Cook for a few minutes more, stirring often, until the mixture is heated through. Add more broth if needed for moisture.
- Season and Serve: Taste the dish and season with seasoning salt and pepper as desired. Serve with a dollop of sour cream if preferred for added creaminess.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and keep the dish healthier.
- Cooking the cabbage until lightly browned enhances the flavor through caramelization—avoid rushing this step.
- Seasoning salt is key as cabbage can absorb a lot of flavor; adjust salt to your taste.
- Sour cream adds a cool contrast to the savory dish but is optional based on preference.
- For moisture control, add beef broth gradually to avoid a soggy consistency.
