Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet

Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet: A Cozy One-Pan Dinner You’ll Make on Repeat

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Cabbage Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty skillet of ground beef and chopped cabbage. It’s warm, filling, and packed with flavor—all without requiring hours in the kitchen. This recipe is a true weeknight hero: budget-friendly, low-carb, and made with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. The combination of tender cabbage, perfectly browned beef, and savory seasoning delivers that old-fashioned comfort food vibe we all crave. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, feeding a family, or just looking for a quick 30-minute dinner, this recipe checks every box. It’s customizable, healthy, and oh-so-satisfying.

Serving Size, Prep Time, and Cook Time

• Serving Size: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Kitchen Equipment Required

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl (optional)

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for best flavor)
• 1 medium green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
• ½ cup beef broth (or water)

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How to Make Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage

1. Brown the Beef: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Add the Aromatics: Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden.
3. Cook the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet in batches, stirring frequently. Pour in beef broth and soy sauce to help soften the cabbage.
4. Season Well: Stir in smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 10 minutes until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
5. Finish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot straight from the skillet or spoon into bowls for a cozy dinner.

Tips for Perfect Ground Beef and Cabbage

• Don’t overcook the cabbage—keeping a little crunch gives the dish texture.
• Use a mix of olive oil and butter for rich flavor.
• A splash of apple cider vinegar at the end brightens up the dish.
• Let the beef brown properly before adding onion—this builds flavor.
• Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top for extra comfort.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Crowding the pan: Overcrowding prevents the cabbage from sautéing properly. Cook in batches if needed.
• Not draining fat: Too much grease can make the dish heavy. Drain lightly after browning the beef.
• Skipping seasoning layers: Season each step—especially the cabbage—to avoid bland results.
• Cooking cabbage too long: Overcooked cabbage can turn mushy and lose its vibrant flavor.

Variations and Substitutions

• Low-Carb Twist: Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos for a keto-friendly option.
• Asian-Inspired: Add ginger, sesame oil, and a drizzle of sriracha.
• Tex-Mex Version: Mix in taco seasoning and top with shredded cheddar.
• Italian Style: Add tomato paste, oregano, and sprinkle with Parmesan.
• Vegetarian Option: Swap ground beef for lentils or crumbled tofu.

How to Store and Meal Prep

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months in portion-sized containers.
• Reheat: Warm in a skillet or microwave until hot throughout.
• Meal Prep Tip: Make a double batch and portion it into containers for quick weekday lunches.

Serving and Presentation Ideas

Serve your ground beef and cabbage as-is for a wholesome meal, or pair it with a side of mashed potatoes, rice, or cauliflower rice. For extra flavor, drizzle with hot sauce or top with a fried egg. To dress it up for guests, garnish with chopped parsley or green onions and serve in a cast-iron skillet right from the stove.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken works great if you prefer leaner meat.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and perfect for keto or low-carb diets.

Can I use purple cabbage instead of green?
You can, though it will slightly change the color and flavor—still delicious!

Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely. Carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms blend nicely with the beef and cabbage.

Related Post: The Best Cheesy Ground Beef Rice Casserole 

This Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet is the definition of comfort made simple. With minimal ingredients and a single pan, you get a hearty, flavorful meal that’s easy to customize for your taste. Whether you stick to the classic version or try one of the variations, this dish will quickly become a go-to in your weekly rotation. Perfect for meal prepping or a cozy dinner, it’s proof that wholesome meals don’t have to be complicated.