Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe

If you’re searching for a quick, comforting weeknight meal that packs incredible flavor and wholesome ingredients all in one pan, let me introduce you to the Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet! This dish is a true hero in the kitchen—hearty ground beef, tender cabbage, and spiced tomatoes all meld together in one glorious skillet. It’s the kind of fuss-free recipe that makes you want to gather around the table, fork in hand, and dive in. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for some cozy leftovers, this simple skillet is about to become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about the Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is how it relies on just a handful of simple ingredients—each one serves a purpose, lending something special either to the flavor, the texture, or that “come back for seconds” vibe. Here’s what you’ll need and why they matter:

• Olive oil: Adds a rich, smooth base for sautéing and brings out the flavors of the aromatics.
• Lean ground beef: The star of this skillet, giving it savory depth and hearty texture. Use lean for less grease, but any ground beef works.
• Onion: Sweet, mellow, and aromatic, onions lay a flavorful foundation for the entire dish.
• Garlic cloves: Those fresh, minced cloves add little explosions of aroma and warmth in every bite.
• Cabbage: Once chopped and simmered, cabbage turns soft, tender, and sweet, soaking up all those yummy juices.
• Diced tomatoes (with juice): Canned tomatoes add bright acidity, color, and a touch of juiciness to balance the dish.
• Garlic powder: Enhances the savory, garlicky layers—because you can never have too much garlic!
• Red pepper flakes: Toss these in for a hint of heat. Adjust to your preferred spice level.
• Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs brings everything together with a hint of Mediterranean flair.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and fine-tuning all the flavors to your taste.

How to Make Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. As soon as the oil glistens, toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3 to 4 minutes, just until the onion goes from sharp and crisp to tender and translucent. This first step is like the overture of a delicious symphony—the aromas will already start calling everyone to the kitchen.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Next, add the lean ground beef straight into the skillet with the softened onions and garlic. Break up the beef with a wooden spoon as it cooks, ensuring you get those evenly browned, tasty little morsels. In about 5 to 7 minutes, the beef should be cooked through and beautifully browned, a savory invitation to what’s next in your Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet.

Step 3: Season to Perfection

Now it’s time for the flavor bombs: sprinkle in the garlic powder, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, and your desired amount of salt and pepper. Stir everything together so these spices infuse the beef and aromatics. You’ll start smelling all those cozy, homey scents fill the air—this is what makes skillet dishes so comforting!

Step 4: Add the Cabbage and Tomatoes

Toss in the chopped cabbage along with the entire can of diced tomatoes, including all their juicy goodness. Stir well to combine and increase the heat slightly to bring everything to a gentle boil. The cabbage will look like a lot at first, but trust me—it will soften down and soak up all the savory flavors of the skillet.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Once the mixture starts to bubble, lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover your skillet and let it cook for about 25 minutes, lifting the lid to stir occasionally. Watch as the cabbage transforms from crunchy and pale to meltingly tender and full of flavor, perfectly melding with the beef and tomatoes. By the end, you’ll have a bubbling pan of Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet ready to scoop and serve!

How to Serve Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

Garnishes

While this skillet dinner certainly doesn’t need much embellishment, a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley will add a pop of color and fresh flavor. For a finishing touch, try a shower of grated Parmesan or a drizzle of hot sauce, especially if you crave a bit more zing. Set out a bowl of garnishes and let everyone dress up their bowl just how they like.

Side Dishes

The Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is a hearty meal on its own, but pairing it with crusty bread is a real winner (all those juices are perfect for swiping up!). A simple side of steamed rice can turn this into a robust main course, or go lighter with a tangy cucumber salad or some roasted vegetables. The flexibility makes it easy to round out your meal with whatever’s on hand.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to switch things up, serve the skillet mixture in hollowed-out bell peppers or ladled over baked potatoes for a fun twist. You could even tuck leftovers into tortillas for a speedy wrap or spoon it over noodles for a whole new dinner experience. The versatility of the Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet means you’ll never run out of delicious ways to enjoy it!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers are one of the best parts about this recipe! Allow your Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days, making it a go-to option for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to stash some away for a rainy day, this skillet freezes like a dream. Once cooled, portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Label and date them, and you’ll have a ready-made dinner waiting for you for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until steaming hot. If you’re in a pinch, the microwave works too—just cover loosely and heat in increments, stirring so it warms through evenly. The flavors deepen over time, so leftovers taste even better!

FAQs

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a fantastic swap and keeps things just as flavorful and satisfying. The seasonings and tomatoes ensure it’s never bland, so use whatever you have on hand.

Is this Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet low-carb?

It sure is! With its focus on protein and veggies, this skillet is naturally low in carbohydrates and fits beautifully into many low-carb or keto meal plans. Just skip the bread or rice sides if you’re watching your carbs.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

No worries at all! You can easily make your own blend with a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, or rosemary. Or just toss in what herbs you have—this dish is wonderfully forgiving.

Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini are all great additions. Add firmer veggies early on, or toss in quick-cooking ones a bit later. The Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is totally customizable to suit your cravings or whatever’s in the fridge.

Is it spicy with the red pepper flakes?

There’s just a gentle kick, but you can easily adjust the heat up or down. Add less if you’re sensitive to spice or increase for more sizzle—taste as you go until it’s just right for you!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a meal prepper, a busy parent, or just love a good one-pan wonder, the Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet brings hearty comfort and easy prep to your table. Give it a try—you might just find it becomes a frequent flyer in your weeknight dinner rotation!

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