This one-pan ground beef and cabbage skillet dinner is quick and tasty! It’s packed with flavors, and all you need is some beef, cabbage, and spices to whip it up.
I love how simple it is to make this dish. Just brown the beef, toss in the cabbage, and let it cook—no fuss, just yum! Perfect for busy weeknights.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: Lean ground beef is typically used, but you can substitute turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian meal, try using plant-based ground beef alternatives like lentils or mushrooms.
Cabbage: Green cabbage is great, but you can swap it for savoy or Napa cabbage for a different texture. If you’re avoiding cabbage altogether, consider using shredded carrots or bell peppers for crunch.
Onion and Garlic: Onions provide flavor, and I prefer yellow onions for their sweetness. If you’re not an onion fan, leeks or shallots are nice alternatives. Garlic adds a nice kick but can be omitted if needed.
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a depth of flavor, but regular paprika or even chili powder could work as well. Don’t have thyme or oregano? Italian seasoning would make a great substitute.
How Do I Ensure the Cabbage is Tender but Not Mushy?
Getting the cabbage just right can be tricky! First, it’s best to chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. When you add it to the skillet, make sure to cover it for a few minutes so it steams while cooking. This helps retain its crunch.
- Stir it in well with the beef to let the flavors combine.
- Keep an eye on it while it simmers—check for tenderness after about 8 minutes. You want it tender but still with a bit of bite.
- If it’s done too early, just remove the skillet from heat until you’re ready to serve.
Remember, the cooking time may vary depending on your stovetop and skillet, so adjust as necessary!
Easy Ground Beef And Cabbage Skillet Dinner
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped (about 5 cups)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce (optional for extra umami)
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Estimated Time Needed:
This delicious skillet dinner can be prepared in approximately 30 minutes. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and around 20 minutes cooking. It’s a quick, hearty meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and cook until it’s translucent, which should take around 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. You’ll want to cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, which will take about 5 to 7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, you can drain it off before moving to the next step.
3. Season the Mixture:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the smoked paprika, dried thyme or oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice. Mix everything together to ensure the beef is well seasoned.
4. Add the Cabbage:
Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet, mixing it well with the beef. The cabbage will shrink as it cooks down.
5. Simmer the Dish:
Pour in the beef broth, and if you’re using soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce, add it now as well. Stir everything to combine. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 8 to 10 minutes. Stir occasionally until the cabbage is tender but still has a bit of crunch.
6. Final Touches:
After simmering, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh parsley or green onions before serving. Enjoy your warm skillet dinner!
This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal cleanup since everything is cooked in one pan. Perfect for a cozy family meal!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives that will still provide a delicious flavor. Just note that turkey may take slightly less time to cook, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, consider adding more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce. You can also add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers when sautéing the onions for an extra kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. You might want to add a splash of water or extra broth to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! Feel free to customize with other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. Just make sure to chop them into small, uniform pieces for even cooking. Add them along with the cabbage for best results!