If you are searching for a warm, comforting dish that comes together quickly and satisfies every craving, this Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a simple, one-pan wonder that combines savory ground beef with tender, flavorful cabbage, creating a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner, this recipe promises layers of rich, savory goodness with just a handful of ingredients that deliver big on flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is key to making this Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet Recipe truly shine. Each item is straightforward but essential, contributing to the overall harmony of taste, texture, and color that makes this dish so delightful.
- Ground beef (1 lb): Choose 85% lean or your favorite variety for a juicy, flavorful base that cooks perfectly in a skillet.
- Small head of cabbage (about 4 cups chopped): Adds a mild sweetness and a satisfying crunch that softens beautifully as it simmers.
- Medium onion, diced: Brings aromatic depth and subtle sweetness when sautéed with garlic.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): A punch of savory aroma that complements the beef and cabbage flawlessly.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Helps to cook the beef evenly and adds a touch of richness without overpowering flavors.
- Salt (1 tsp, or to taste): Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of every ingredient.
- Black pepper (½ tsp): Adds just the right amount of warmth and spice.
- Paprika (½ tsp, optional): Introduces a smoky touch that enhances the dish’s complexity.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (¼ tsp, optional): A hint of heat that wakes up the palate without overwhelming the other flavors.
- Beef broth (½ cup): Keeps the mixture moist and infuses a rich, savory undertone during cooking.
- Soy sauce (1 tbsp, optional): For extra umami depth if you want a slightly Asian-inspired twist.
How to Make Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Pan and Cook the Beef
Start by warming your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, add the ground beef. Break it apart with your spatula as it cooks to ensure even browning and a tender texture. In about 5 to 7 minutes, your beef should be fully cooked through and beautifully browned, setting the flavorful foundation for the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Remove Excess Grease
If the ground beef releases any excess grease while cooking, carefully drain it from the skillet. This step keeps the dish from becoming too oily, allowing the other flavors, especially the cabbage, to shine in perfect balance.
Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss your diced onion and minced garlic into the skillet. Cook them together for around 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens and the garlic fills the kitchen with its irresistible aroma. This simple step adds incredible savory flavors that complement the beef wonderfully.
Step 4: Add Cabbage and Seasonings
Stir in the chopped cabbage along with salt, black pepper, paprika, and the crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Cook everything for about five minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the cabbage starting to soften and absorb the spices, creating a lovely medley of textures and tastes.
Step 5: Bring in the Broth and Soy Sauce
Pour the beef broth and optional soy sauce into the skillet, stirring to combine all ingredients well. These liquids will help the cabbage cook down tender while melding all the flavors into one harmonious skillet masterpiece.
Step 6: Simmer Covered
Cover your skillet, reduce the heat slightly, and let the dish simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and promote even cooking. By the end, the cabbage should be perfectly tender and brimming with robust flavor.
Step 7: Final Seasoning
Give your skillet a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed with extra salt, pepper, or soy sauce. This last step ensures that each bite bursts with exactly the right amount of flavor you love.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!
Once it’s seasoned to your liking, serve this Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet Recipe hot, right from the pan. It’s hearty, satisfying, and ideal for a quick family meal or a cozy solo dinner.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten your skillet dish with fresh garnishes like chopped green onions, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, or a dollop of sour cream for cool creaminess. These simple touches add both color and a fresh burst of flavor that elevates the meal instantly.
Side Dishes
While the skillet is a filling main course on its own, pairing it with crusty bread, steamed rice, or creamy mashed potatoes takes it to the next level. Each side adds a different texture and soaks up the delicious juices, making every bite irresistible.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider serving this recipe in individual bowls topped with a fried egg for added protein and richness. Alternatively, stuff the mixture into warm tortillas for a fun and interactive taco-style meal that everyone will enjoy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After your meal, simply transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors deepen with time, making the next day’s serving just as, if not more, delicious. Use within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and freshness.
Freezing
This Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet Recipe also freezes beautifully. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also use a microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture and prevent dryness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat for this skillet recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef is classic, ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be excellent alternatives. Just adjust cooking times as needed since leaner meats cook quickly and may dry out without careful attention.
Is it necessary to add soy sauce and paprika?
No, these are optional ingredients to customize flavor. Soy sauce adds umami depth and paprika lends a smoky touch, but the recipe is delicious and flavorful on its own with just salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sauté extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for heartiness. Using vegetable broth in place of beef broth keeps the dish vegetarian-friendly.
How do I know when the cabbage is cooked properly?
The cabbage should be tender but not mushy, with a slight bite remaining. It will reduce in volume and become translucent around the edges, signaling readiness.
What are some spice variations I can try?
Feel free to get creative by adding ground cumin, smoked paprika, or even a pinch of cinnamon for warmth. Fresh herbs like thyme or dill can also complement the flavors beautifully.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet Recipe is a true kitchen hero for any day of the week. It’s straightforward, nourishing, and full of delicious layers that make every bite comforting and memorable. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and enjoy it as much as I do!
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Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This hearty Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage recipe is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal, featuring tender cabbage cooked with seasoned ground beef and aromatic spices. Perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner, it combines simple ingredients with a savory broth to create a satisfying, low-carb dish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (85% lean or your preferred choice)
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped (about 4 cups)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings & Liquids
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil)
- 1 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional for added flavor)
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional for depth of flavor)
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat, preparing the base for sautéing the beef and vegetables.
- Cook the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Drain excess grease: Remove any excess grease from the skillet to prevent the dish from being too oily.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Add the diced onion and garlic to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
- Add cabbage and spices: Stir in the chopped cabbage, salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage starts to soften.
- Add liquids: Pour in the beef broth and soy sauce (if using), stirring everything together to combine flavors.
- Simmer covered: Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or soy sauce as desired.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve the warm ground beef and cabbage mixture hot for a satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute beef broth with water or vegetable broth if preferred.
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease and fat content.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or crusty bread for a complete meal.
