If you are looking for a comforting, hearty dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe is about to become your new favorite weeknight go-to. The beautiful combination of tender, savory ground beef paired with soft, slightly sweet cabbage creates a simple yet irresistible meal cherished by home cooks everywhere. With just a handful of straightforward ingredients, each bite brings a satisfying tango of flavors and textures that is both nourishing and satisfying. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be making it again and again for its ease, taste, and that cozy home-cooked feeling it delivers in every forkful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because it relies on a few simple, humble ingredients that each play a big role in building flavor, texture, and color. From the savory ground beef to the buttery sautéed cabbage, everything comes together effortlessly.
- Lean ground beef: Provides hearty protein and rich savory flavor, the core of this skillet dish.
- Butter: Adds silky richness to sautéed onions and cabbage, enhancing depth.
- Onion: Brings sweetness and aromatic foundation when cooked down.
- Green cabbage: The star vegetable offering gentle crunch and mild sweetness.
- Garlic: Delivers a fragrant punch that elevates every bite.
- Paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the dish.
- Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs to round out flavors with a touch of earthiness.
- Beef broth: Builds moisture and umami, helping everything meld together smoothly.
- Seasoning salt & pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing the overall taste.
- Sour cream (optional): A creamy topping that adds a cool tang when served.
How to Make Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating your skillet over medium-high heat and adding the lean ground beef. Cook it while breaking it apart with your spoon or spatula until it’s beautifully browned and slightly caramelized. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes, and browning it well is key to capturing deep, rich flavor for the entire dish.
Step 2: Drain Excess Fat
Once the beef is cooked, transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to soak up any excess grease. Leaving too much fat in the skillet can make your dish greasy, so this step helps keep everything balanced, light, and just delicious.
Step 3: Sauté Onions in Butter
Add the butter to the now-empty skillet and let it melt, then toss in the chopped onions. Let these cook for about 3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. This adds a subtle sweetness that compliments the beef and cabbage perfectly.
Step 4: Cook the Cabbage Slowly
Next, add your chopped green cabbage directly into the skillet with the onions. Patience here pays off—they need to cook uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring regularly. As the cabbage softens, it releases a lovely sweetness, and the onions start to brown lightly, creating that irresistible flavor boost that makes this Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe so special.
Step 5: Season with Garlic, Paprika, and Italian Herbs
Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, and Italian seasoning. This combination infuses an aromatic warmth and complexity that really transforms the dish from simple to crave-worthy.
Step 6: Add Broth and Return Beef to Pan
Pour in the beef broth to keep everything moist and flavorful, then add the browned ground beef back into the skillet. Cook everything together for a few more minutes, stirring regularly until the beef is heated through and the flavors have married nicely. If the pan looks dry at any point, add a splash more broth to keep the moisture balanced.
Step 7: Final Seasoning and Serve
Give your skillet one last taste and adjust seasoning with seasoning salt and freshly ground pepper according to your preference. Since cabbage has a lot of volume, it accepts a good amount of salt. Plate it up and, if you like, top with a generous dollop of sour cream for a creamy, tangy finish. This step is the cherry on top for many who enjoy a smooth contrast to the savory skillet.
How to Serve Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh chopped parsley or a sprinkle of smoked paprika add a fresh, beautiful pop of color and flavor. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can provide a creamy richness that balances the savory flavors beautifully. Even a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten up the whole skillet.
Side Dishes
This skillet meal is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with simple sides such as crusty bread to mop up juices, creamy mashed potatoes for added comfort, or even a light garden salad for freshness. Any of these help round out the meal, making it perfect for either weeknight dinners or weekend family gatherings.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe in individual cast iron skillets for a cozy feel at the table. You can also stuff it into warm pita bread or serve over fluffy rice or buttery egg noodles to mix things up. For a low-carb twist, consider serving it alongside cauliflower rice — the possibilities are endless!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This dish keeps wonderfully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store your leftovers in an airtight container to preserve freshness and prevent the cabbage from becoming mushy. The flavors might even deepen as it rests, making for a delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to make this Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe ahead of time in bulk, it freezes beautifully. Cool completely, then place it in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months, offering you a comforting meal ready to thaw and enjoy anytime you want.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm evenly. Add a splash of beef broth or water if needed to loosen the texture. You can also microwave it covered, stirring halfway through, for a quick and convenient reheat that retains its delicious flavors.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cabbage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is classic and mild, you can swap in savoy or even red cabbage. Just keep in mind that red cabbage will slightly change the color and add a bit more crunch and earthiness to the skillet.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, it’s perfect for meal prepping due to its simplicity and great flavor retention. Cook a batch, divide into portions, and refrigerate or freeze for quick, satisfying meals all week long.
Can I add other vegetables to the skillet?
Definitely! Diced carrots, bell peppers, or even mushrooms can add extra flavor and nutrition. Add them early enough to allow them to cook through properly and complement the cabbage and beef nicely.
How can I make this dish spicier?
For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes with the paprika and Italian seasoning. You could also top with sliced jalapeños or hot sauce when serving for a spicy kick.
What can I use instead of beef broth?
If you don’t have beef broth on hand, chicken broth or vegetable broth works well as a substitute. You can also use water combined with a bit of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to add umami depth.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe is a humble but heroic dish that effortlessly brings warmth, comfort, and full-on flavor to your table. Whether you’re cooking for busy weeknights or craving a simple, satisfying meal, this skillet delivers every time. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a beloved recipe in your kitchen rotation!
Print
Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Ground Beef and Cabbage recipe is a hearty and flavorful one-pan dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender green cabbage is sautéed with savory ground beef, onions, and a blend of aromatic spices, finished with a splash of beef broth to keep it moist and delicious. Optional sour cream adds a creamy touch that complements the savory flavors perfectly. This comforting skillet meal is easy to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients, making it both satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredients
Meat and Dairy
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Sour cream (optional, for serving)
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 medium green cabbage, cored and chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup beef broth (or more, to taste)
- Seasoning salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook, breaking it up as you go along, until it’s nicely browned, about 8-10 minutes.
- Drain excess fat: Transfer the beef to a paper towel-lined plate. Drain excess fat from the skillet if necessary.
- Sauté onions: Add the butter and chopped onions to the skillet and sauté for 3 minutes until softened.
- Cook the cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the pan and cook uncovered for 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cabbage is tender and slightly browned. This slow cooking develops flavor.
- Add spices: Stir in the minced garlic, paprika, and Italian seasoning to the cabbage mixture.
- Combine beef and broth: Pour in the beef broth and add the cooked ground beef back to the skillet. Cook for a few minutes until heated through, stirring occasionally. Add more broth if needed to maintain moisture.
- Season and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with seasoning salt and pepper as desired. Serve with a dollop of sour cream if preferred.
Notes
- For a leaner dish, use lean ground beef with less fat content.
- Adjust seasoning salt carefully since the dish contains cabbage that benefits from saltiness.
- Cooking the cabbage slowly enhances its sweetness and flavor.
- Sour cream adds richness but is optional based on preference.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
