If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty, and utterly delicious dish that comes together with minimal fuss, this Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe is about to become your new go-to. It’s a wonderful blend of savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and vibrant spices that sizzle in one pan, delivering a warm, homey meal in no time. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this skillet recipe offers bold flavors and satisfying textures that feel both nostalgic and fresh all at once.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is what makes this dish so approachable and perfect for everyday cooking. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and a lovely balance between protein, veggies, and spices.
- 1 small cabbage, chopped: Adds a mild sweetness and tender crunch that complements the beef perfectly.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty, rich base that makes this dish filling and protein-packed.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes: Brings juiciness and a subtle tang, brightening up the skillet.
- 1 cup onions, chopped: Infuses a natural sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Provides an aromatic punch that lifts all the other flavors.
- 1 tablespoon bouillon powder: Enhances the savory notes and ties the dish together.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Adds earthy warmth with a touch of spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Offers a subtle kick that can be adjusted to taste for warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a smoky, slightly sweet flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
- Salt, to taste: The finishing touch that amplifies all the natural flavors.
How to Make Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by warming a large skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until it’s thoroughly browned. This step builds the base of your dish with that rich, caramelized flavor — don’t rush it. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the skillet from getting greasy and to allow the other ingredients to shine.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet with your cooked beef. Cook these until the onions soften and turn translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. This stage releases their natural sweetness and infuses the beef with wonderful aromatic undertones that elevate the entire dish.
Step 3: Introduce the Spices
Sprinkle in the cumin, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and bouillon powder. Stir well and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to let these spices bloom and mix with the beef and onions. This is where the flavor magic happens, layering warmth, slight heat, and smokiness that make the skillet irresistible.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Cabbage
Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices and toss in the chopped cabbage. Stir everything together so the cabbage starts to soften and the tomatoes begin to meld with the spices. This combo creates a vibrant color contrast and adds moisture, ensuring every bite is juicy and flavorful.
Step 5: Cook Covered to Tenderize
Put a lid on the skillet and let it cook over medium-low heat for 15 to 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to evenly soften the cabbage. This slow simmer tenderizes the cabbage until it’s just right — soft but still with a bit of bite, complementing the beef nicely.
Step 6: Season and Reduce
Remove the lid and taste for salt, adjusting accordingly. Let the skillet cook uncovered for an additional 5 minutes so some of the excess liquid evaporates. This concentrates the flavors and ensures your dish isn’t watery but instead rich, thick, and satisfying.
Step 7: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Once the skillet looks perfectly cooked and smelling amazing, it’s time to plate up and dig in. Serve hot for the best comfort food experience that’s sure to delight everyone at your table.
How to Serve Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten your skillet dish with fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or green onions. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese can add creaminess and an extra layer of indulgence that complements the spicy, smoky notes perfectly.
Side Dishes
This skillet goes wonderfully with simple sides like crusty bread to soak up the juices, steamed rice to soak up every bit of flavor, or even a fresh green salad to add contrast and freshness to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this dish stuffed inside baked sweet potatoes or piled on top of buttered noodles. You can also turn it into a hearty filling for wraps or layered in a casserole with some cheese melted on top for a comfort-food upgrade.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe keeps well in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. The flavors continue to meld beautifully, making for an even tastier next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to save it for later, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure everything warms evenly. Adding a splash of water or broth can help refresh the dish if it feels a bit dry.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork can be substituted for ground beef, though the flavor profile will shift slightly. Adjust seasoning as needed to complement your chosen meat.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can replace the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or hearty veggies like mushrooms and lentils. Just cook them as you would the beef to build a similar texture and richness.
How spicy is this dish?
The cayenne pepper adds a gentle heat that you can easily adjust to your liking. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or omit the cayenne; for more heat, add a pinch extra or sprinkle some chili flakes on top when serving.
What can I do if I don’t have bouillon powder?
If you don’t have bouillon powder, you can use a small amount of beef or vegetable stock cube or even a splash of soy sauce to bring in that umami depth. Just be mindful of salt levels when substituting.
Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
Yes, this recipe scales up beautifully. Just use a larger skillet or a heavy-bottomed pan to ensure even cooking, and keep an eye on cooking times especially when softening the cabbage.
Final Thoughts
This Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe is one of those dishes you’ll return to again and again because it’s quick, flavorful, and so satisfying. It’s an easy way to bring together everyday ingredients and turn them into a meal that feels special but requires minimal effort. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a beloved staple in your home cooking repertoire!
Print
Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A hearty and flavorful Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet recipe that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner. This dish combines tender cabbage with savory ground beef and a blend of spices, cooked together in one skillet for a comforting and nourishing meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 small cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup onions, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Meat
- 1 lb ground beef
Canned Goods & Spices
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon bouillon powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is fully browned. Be sure to break it up into crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Sauté together for 3-4 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent, enhancing the flavors.
- Add Spices and Bouillon: Stir in the cumin, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and bouillon powder. Cook the mixture for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and meld with the beef and onions.
- Combine Tomatoes and Cabbage: Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the chopped cabbage into the skillet. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly mixed and coated with the spice blend.
- Simmer Covered: Cover the skillet and cook over medium-low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the cabbage to soften and absorb the flavors from the meat and spices.
- Season and Reduce: Season the dish with salt to your taste. Continue cooking uncovered for an additional 5 minutes to allow any excess liquid to evaporate, intensifying the flavors and ensuring a perfect texture.
- Serve Hot: Once the cabbage is tender and the mixture has thickened nicely, serve the skillet hot. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal right away!
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat and calories.
- Adjust cayenne pepper amount based on your preferred spice level.
- For a deeper flavor, you can substitute bouillon powder with beef broth or stock.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or crusty bread.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
