This Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner is a simple, one-pan meal that packs a punch with flavor! It combines hearty ground beef and tender cabbage for a satisfying dish that cooks up quickly.
I love how low-fuss this dinner is—just brown the beef, add the cabbage, and let it all cook together. It’s perfect for busy nights, and it’s so tasty that you’ll want to make it again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the star of the dish. You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you need it to be vegetarian, try crumbled tofu or a plant-based meat substitute.
Cabbage: Green cabbage works best, but you can swap it for savoy cabbage or even kale for different textures. If you want something lighter, try using coleslaw mix from the store.
Onion: A regular yellow or white onion adds great flavor. If you’re out, shallots or even leeks could also do well. Sweet onions can add a different taste profile, but they’ll caramelize faster.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is essential for that aromatic base. If you don’t have fresh garlic on hand, you could use garlic powder (about 1/4 teaspoon) as a substitute. But fresh is always the way to go!
Seasonings: The paprika and thyme provide fantastic flavor. If you don’t have thyme, Italian seasoning can be a fine replacement. For a kick, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes or add hot sauce.
How Do You Cook Cabbage Perfectly?
Cooking cabbage may seem tricky, but it can be super easy with the right approach. You want it tender but still crisp, and here’s how to nail it:
- Start by sautéing your onions and garlic to build flavor.
- Add your ground beef and let it brown completely. This helps avoid excess moisture.
- When adding the cabbage, stir it in well, ensuring it mixes with the beef and spices.
- Cover your skillet to trap steam, which helps the cabbage soften without turning mushy.
- Check it after 10 minutes. You want the cabbage soft yet with a little crunch left.
Cooking cabbage is all about not rushing it; let it hang out with those rich flavors for the best taste!
Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small head green cabbage (about 4 cups shredded)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional, for extra depth)
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This quick and easy recipe will take you about 10 minutes to prep and 20-25 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This will get the pan nice and hot, perfect for sautéing your onion.
2. Sauté the Onions:
Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for about 3 minutes. Keep an eye on it, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and lightly golden.
3. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another 30 seconds. You just want it to become fragrant, so don’t let it burn!
4. Brown the Ground Beef:
Now, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Brown the beef thoroughly for about 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. If there’s excess fat after cooking, feel free to drain it off.
5. Season the Mixture:
Sprinkle the paprika, dried thyme (if using), salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes over the beef. Stir everything together so that all the spices are evenly distributed.
6. Add the Cabbage:
Once the beef is seasoned, add the shredded cabbage to the skillet. Stir well to combine it with the beef and spices.
7. Pour in the Liquid:
Pour the beef broth (or water) and soy sauce (if using) over the cabbage and beef mixture. This will add moisture and flavor!
8. Cook Until Tender:
Cover the skillet with a lid, reducing the heat to medium-low. Let it cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the cabbage to be tender yet still slightly crisp—perfectly cooked!
9. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasonings if needed. It’s all about your personal preference!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious, easy, and hearty ground beef and cabbage skillet dinner!
Bon appétit!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well as a leaner alternative. Keep in mind that they may take a bit less time to cook, so watch closely and adjust cooking time as needed.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Cabbage? Can I Use Coleslaw Mix?
Yes, using a pre-packaged coleslaw mix is a great shortcut! Just use the same amount as the shredded cabbage. It will add a nice crunch and flavor, and you can skip the shredding step!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Definitely! You can substitute the ground beef with crumbled tofu or a plant-based meat alternative. Add some extra veggies or beans for added protein and a more filling dish!