If you are craving a dish that blends simplicity with heartwarming flavors, then the Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet – Quick and Satisfying Dinner Recipe is exactly what you need on your dinner table. This recipe captures the cozy, savory goodness of browned beef mingling with tender cabbage and a touch of smoky paprika, all simmered to perfection in one skillet. It’s not only quick to prepare but also brings a beautiful balance of textures and rich taste that feels like a warm embrace after a long day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, straightforward ingredients come together in this recipe to create a dish bursting with flavor and nutrition. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s building the base, adding depth, or providing a pop of freshness and color.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty protein that forms the savory backbone of the dish.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and a fragrant base that complements the beef perfectly.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: This little punch of flavor wakes up the entire dish with aromatic warmth.
- ½ head green cabbage, chopped (about 4 cups): Offers a satisfying crunch and tender texture that balances the meatiness.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Brings juiciness and a touch of acidity to brighten every bite.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the skillet sauce beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides a smoky depth that elevates the entire flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Adds herbal notes with just the right hint of earthiness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors locked inside the skillet.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Lends mild heat and complexity to the seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed): Helps in sautéing if your beef is extra lean or the pan is dry.
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or shredded cheese: These finishing touches add freshness or gooey creaminess.
How to Make Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet – Quick and Satisfying Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Begin by heating your skillet over medium heat and adding the ground beef. As it cooks, break it up with a spoon to get those nicely browned, crave-worthy crumbles. Cooking the beef thoroughly is essential, and if you notice excess grease, don’t hesitate to drain it to keep the skillet from getting oily.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic right into the skillet with the beef. Stir and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes until everything becomes wonderfully soft and fragrant. This step brings out their natural sweetness and infuses your dish with enticing aromas.
Step 3: Cook the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and give it a good stir. Let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes so the cabbage begins to soften while still maintaining a slight bite. This gradual cooking lets the cabbage absorb the flavors from the beef while keeping its texture nicely tender.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes, then add the tomato paste, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir all the ingredients well to combine, creating a rich and flavorful sauce base. This medley of seasonings is what transforms a simple skillet meal into a comforting feast.
Step 5: Simmer and Blend Flavors
Cover your skillet and reduce the heat to low. Let the mixture simmer gently for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure everything cooks evenly and the flavors meld beautifully. Check the cabbage’s tenderness and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving.
How to Serve Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet – Quick and Satisfying Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing your dish with fresh chopped parsley instantly adds a burst of color and a hint of herbal brightness that elevates each bite. Alternatively, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, like sharp cheddar or melty mozzarella, brings an irresistibly creamy and indulgent touch.
Side Dishes
This skillet shines on its own, but pairing it with warm mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice can make it even more comforting. For those watching carbs, serving it over cauliflower rice offers a low-carb twist that keeps things satisfying without sacrificing flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun family-friendly meal, scoop this hearty mixture into warm pita pockets or stuff it into bell peppers before baking. You can also turn it into a delightful low-carb wrap filling using large lettuce leaves, making this dish as versatile as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying a comforting meal, simply let any leftovers cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for a quick and tasty next-day dinner or lunch.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked skillet by portioning it into freezer-safe containers or bags. This recipe freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep the texture and flavors intact.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet – Quick and Satisfying Dinner Recipe gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to retain moisture and keep the cabbage tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great leaner alternatives that still work well in this skillet. Just keep an eye on cooking times as they may cook a little faster than beef.
Is this recipe low carb or keto-friendly?
Yes, this recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates, especially if you serve it without carb-heavy sides. Using cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice keeps it friendly for keto or low-carb diets.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Bell peppers, carrots, or even mushrooms can be tossed in with the cabbage to add extra flavor, color, and nutrition. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to accommodate them.
How spicy is this skillet? Can I add more heat?
This recipe has a mild smoky flavor thanks to the smoked paprika and black pepper. If you want more heat, feel free to add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to your taste.
What can I use instead of canned diced tomatoes?
If you prefer fresh tomatoes, roughly chop about 2 cups of ripe tomatoes and add them along with a tablespoon of tomato paste to maintain the thickened sauce texture. Just note cooking times may be slightly longer to soften fresh tomatoes.
Final Thoughts
There is something so satisfying about a one-pan meal like this Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet – Quick and Satisfying Dinner Recipe that brings comfort without fuss. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a warm, flavorful dinner on the table fast. Give it a try and watch it become one of your go-to dishes for quick, wholesome meals that everyone will love!
Print
Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet – Quick and Satisfying Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Low Carb
Description
This Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is a quick and satisfying dinner option that’s packed with flavor and nutritious ingredients. Ground beef is cooked with aromatic onions and garlic, then combined with tender cabbage and a savory tomato mixture seasoned with smoked paprika and oregano. It’s an easy one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights, and can be served on its own or alongside rice or mashed potatoes for a heartier dish.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ head green cabbage, chopped (about 4 cups)
Tomato and Seasonings
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Other
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley or shredded cheese
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease to prevent an oily dish.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and garlic becomes fragrant, enhancing the flavor base.
- Cook the Cabbage: Stir in the chopped green cabbage and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing it to soften and reduce slightly in volume while absorbing the savory beef flavors.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices along with the tomato paste, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer and Blend Flavors: Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Let the mixture simmer for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the cabbage becomes tender and the flavors meld together perfectly.
- Final Taste and Serve: Taste the dish and adjust seasonings if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of shredded cheese if desired, for an optional flavor boost.
Notes
- This skillet meal is delicious on its own or served over rice or mashed potatoes for a more filling dinner.
- For a low-carb alternative, serve it over cauliflower rice.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to increase the veggie content and add more color.
