If you’re craving a comforting dish that’s both nourishing and bursting with flavor, this Tasty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe is just what you need. It combines the rich savoriness of perfectly browned ground beef with the subtle crunch and sweetness of sautéed cabbage, all brought together in a luscious tomato-based sauce enhanced with a hint of balsamic glaze. Ideal for busy weeknights, this skillet meal comes together quickly, making it a delightful go-to recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Tasty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe shines because of its simple but purposeful ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role—whether it’s adding depth, texture, or balancing flavors—to create a harmonious and satisfying dish.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: A little oil to start the searing process and keep the beef juicy.
- 1 lb ground beef (85/15): This fat ratio gives you both flavor and a tender bite.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning the beef and the vegetables perfectly.
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil: Extra oil for sautéing the onions and cabbage so they soften nicely.
- 1 cup diced onion: Adds sweetness and aromatic depth when softened.
- 3 garlic cloves minced: Garlic is the backbone of almost any savory dish and adds a warm punch.
- 1/2 head of cabbage (about 6 cups, roughly chopped): The star vegetable that adds crunch, color, and mild sweetness.
- 1 tsp paprika: Gives a smoky note to the overall flavor.
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes: Adds a subtle kick without overpowering the dish.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that complements the tomato sauce splendidly.
- Salt and black pepper again: Adjust seasoning as you go for the best taste.
- 8 oz tomato sauce: Brings acidity and richness to balance the meat and veggies.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Keeps the skillet moist while deepening the savory flavor.
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar: This reduces into a beautiful glaze that adds subtle sweetness and depth.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami for an irresistible meaty taste.
- 1 bay leaf: Slowly infuses subtle herbal notes during cooking.
How to Make Tasty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spatula, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink—about 5 to 7 minutes. This step locks in flavor and creates a savory base for your dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Push the browned beef to one side of the skillet. Add 1.5 tablespoons of olive oil on the other side and toss in the diced onions. Cook until they begin to soften and turn translucent, about 3 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This releases the sweet and pungent aromatics that make the skillet come alive.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage and Spices
Now, pile in the roughly chopped cabbage. Sprinkle in the paprika, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, plus a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir everything well so the cabbage starts to soften and the spices coat every delicious bite. Cooking the cabbage gently lets it release its natural sweetness and provides a wonderful texture contrast.
Step 4: Pour in the Sauces and Broth
Pour the tomato sauce and beef broth over the mixture and stir to combine. Add the balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and toss in the bay leaf. These ingredients meld together to create a rich, tangy sauce that ties the meat and cabbage perfectly. Bring it to a simmer, reduce the heat slightly, and let it cook for about 5 minutes so the flavors deepen and the sauce thickens just right.
Step 5: Final Taste and Adjustments
Give your skillet a good stir, then taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. By this point, your kitchen will smell absolutely amazing with all those hearty and savory notes melding gracefully.
How to Serve Tasty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or green onions add a pop of color and freshness that beautifully contrast the richness of this skillet meal. A sprinkling of grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream can elevate each bite and add creaminess if you like.
Side Dishes
This skillet pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce or a simple side of buttered egg noodles. For extra greens, a crisp garden salad with vinaigrette brightens the plate and keeps the meal balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving this dish in rustic cast iron skillets right at the table not only keeps the food warm but also makes for a charming, cozy presentation. You can also spoon it over fluffy mashed potatoes for a comforting twist that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the skillet cool completely before transferring leftovers to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, the dish stays fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect next-day lunch or dinner option without any hassle.
Freezing
For longer storage, this Tasty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, remove as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Gently warm leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce seems too thick. Alternatively, microwave it in short bursts, stirring between intervals to heat evenly without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a leaner option, though cooking times might be slightly shorter. For a richer flavor, ground pork or a mix of beef and pork works beautifully as well.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes, swap the ground beef with hearty plant-based crumbles or finely chopped mushrooms for an earthy texture. Replace beef broth with vegetable broth and use soy sauce instead of Worcestershire sauce for a vegan-friendly meal.
How spicy is this dish?
The dish has a gentle heat from the red pepper flakes, which adds warmth without overpowering the other flavors. You can easily adjust the amount to suit your taste or omit it altogether for a milder meal.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance and reheat later?
Definitely! It actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld. Just store it properly as mentioned and reheat gently when you’re ready to enjoy.
What other vegetables can I add to the skillet?
Feel free to toss in some diced carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for added color and nutrition. Just keep an eye on cooking times to ensure everything is tender and well combined.
Final Thoughts
This Tasty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Whether you’re feeding your family or looking for a fuss-free weeknight winner, this dish is destined to become a beloved favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it becomes a staple for cozy dinners!
Print
Tasty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Tasty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal combining seasoned ground beef with tender cabbage simmered in a savory tomato sauce. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner, this recipe highlights a balance of spices and a touch of tangy balsamic vinegar for depth of flavor.
Ingredients
Beef Mixture
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef (85/15)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Vegetables & Seasonings
- 1.5 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup onion, diced into 1/2-inch pieces
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 head cabbage (about 6 cups), roughly chopped
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Liquid Ingredients
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, season with salt and black pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Cabbage: In the same skillet, add 1.5 tablespoons olive oil. Add diced onions and cook over medium heat until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Then add the roughly chopped cabbage, paprika, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and sauté until the cabbage begins to soften, about 5 minutes.
- Add Sauces and Simmer: Return the cooked ground beef back to the skillet. Stir in the tomato sauce, beef broth, balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and add the bay leaf. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Cook and Reduce: Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the sauce has slightly thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to combine flavors.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed, and serve warm as a hearty main dish perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
Notes
- Ground beef with 85/15 fat ratio is recommended for optimal flavor and texture.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level.
- The balsamic vinegar adds a subtle sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomato sauce.
- Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat easily.
