Description
This Easy & Hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is a comforting one-pan meal packed with savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and sweet carrots simmered in a flavorful tomato and broth sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe offers a balanced mix of protein and vegetables, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat
- 1 pound lean ground beef
Vegetables
- ½ of a medium cabbage, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, grated or julienned
- 1 medium to large onion, chopped
Liquids and Sauces
- 3 tablespoons tomato sauce or paste
- ½ cup beef broth or vegetable broth
Seasonings and Oils
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1½ teaspoons paprika (regular or smoked)
- 2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil for cooking
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef along with salt and pepper to taste. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully cooked and golden brown. Drain excess fat if needed and transfer the beef to a bowl; set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Carrot: In the same skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil if needed. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then add the grated or julienned carrot and cook until soft, approximately 3 minutes.
- Add Tomato Sauce and Broth: Stir in the tomato sauce or paste and pour in the beef or vegetable broth. Mix well and let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes to combine flavors.
- Cook the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet along with salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir well to evenly coat the cabbage with the sauce and seasonings. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cabbage simmer, stirring occasionally, until it softens to your desired texture—about 5-7 minutes. For a slightly crunchy texture, cook for less time; for softer cabbage, cook longer.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and mix everything together thoroughly. Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty skillet meal.
Notes
- You can adjust the paprika type (regular or smoked) based on your flavor preference.
- If you want a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with plant-based protein and use vegetable broth.
- Cooking time for cabbage can be adjusted to your preferred texture from slightly crunchy to fully soft.
- Drain excess fat from beef to reduce overall fat content.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.
