This Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner is a one-pan wonder! With juicy ground beef and tender cabbage, it’s a hearty meal that comes together quickly.
I love how simple this dish is—just cook everything in one pan! Plus, it’s perfect for busy nights when you need dinner on the table fast, and it tastes great!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein in the dish. If you want a leaner option, ground turkey or chicken can be great substitutes. Plant-based ground beef is also a good alternative if you’re aiming for a vegetarian meal.
Cabbage: Green cabbage is perfect for this recipe, but you can also use red cabbage for a pop of color. If fresh cabbage isn’t available, coleslaw mix works in a pinch.
Onion: A medium onion adds great flavor. You can easily swap it for shallots or leeks if you prefer a milder taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides a nice aroma and taste. If you don’t have fresh garlic on hand, garlic powder can work in a pinch—use about 1/4 teaspoon instead.
Spices: Smoked paprika offers a smoky flavor, but regular paprika or even chili powder can be substituted. Adjust the amount to your liking, especially if you enjoy a bit more heat.
How Do You Properly Cook Cabbage in a Skillet?
Cooking cabbage so it’s tender but not mushy is key! When added to the skillet, it should simmer with the beef and brew its flavors together. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Combine the chopped cabbage with the beef and spices in the skillet.
- Add liquid (broth or water) and cover. This creates steam to tenderize the cabbage.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking, letting it steam for about 8-10 minutes.
Feel free to taste the cabbage at the end! If you want a bit more crunch, reduce the steaming time. Enjoy your easy skillet meal!
Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for extra flavor)
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes of cooking time. So, you can have a delicious, hearty meal on your table in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat The Oil:
Begin by pouring the olive oil into a large skillet and heat it over medium-high heat. This will help ensure that everything cooks evenly.
2. Sauté The Onion:
Add the diced onion to the skillet. Cook until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This will add a lovely flavor to your dish!
3. Add Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for another 30 seconds until it smells delicious. Be careful not to let it burn!
4. Brown The Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spatula to break it up as it cooks. You want it to be nicely browned and no longer pink, which should take around 6-8 minutes.
5. Drain Excess Fat:
If there’s too much fat in the skillet, drain some of it out, but leave a little for flavor—about a tablespoon should do!
6. Season The Mixture:
Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, the optional thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
7. Stir In The Cabbage:
Add the chopped cabbage into the skillet. Give it a good stir, mixing it with the beef and spices.
8. Add Liquid:
Pour in the beef broth or water along with the soy sauce if you’re using it. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it steam for about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
9. Evaporate Liquid:
Once the cabbage is tender, remove the lid and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to evaporate any excess liquid, if needed.
10. Taste & Adjust:
Take a moment to taste your dish. Feel free to add more salt or pepper to your liking.
11. Serve & Enjoy:
Garnish with some fresh parsley or sliced green onions before serving. Enjoy this filling and wholesome meal!
This Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner is nutritious, quick, and perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken makes a great leaner alternative to beef, providing a similar texture and absorbing the flavors well. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly until no longer pink.
What Can I Substitute for Cabbage?
If you don’t have cabbage on hand, you can use kale, collard greens, or even bok choy. Adjust the cooking time as needed, as these greens may cook differently. You can also use a bag of coleslaw mix for convenience!
How Long Can I Store Leftovers? How Do I Reheat Them?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or use the microwave until heated through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Yes, feel free to get creative! Carrots, bell peppers, or even zucchini can be added for extra nutrients and flavor. Just chop them into small pieces and add them to the skillet along with the cabbage.
