This Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner is a quick meal that comes together in one pan! It’s packed with tender beef, crunchy cabbage, and mild spices making it super tasty and filling.
I love how simple this dish is! Just toss everything in a skillet and let it bubble away. Plus, it’s a healthy choice that helps clear out my fridge—who doesn’t love that?
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I usually go for lean ground beef (like 80/20) to balance flavor and fat. If you want a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well too. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
Cabbage: Green cabbage is the star here for its crunch and sweetness. If you’re out of green cabbage, you can swap it for red cabbage or even bok choy. Just adjust the cooking time since different cabbages can vary in tenderness!
Spices: Smoked paprika gives a nice depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, you could use regular paprika or even cumin for a different twist. Italian seasoning is great, but fresh herbs like oregano or basil will brighten the dish too!
Beef Broth: If you’re out of broth, water is totally fine, but broth adds a richer flavor. You can also use vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
How Do You Cook the Cabbage Just Right?
The key to cooking cabbage perfectly is all about timing—aim for tender yet still crunchy. After adding it to your skillet:
- Cover your skillet to allow the steam to work its magic.
- Cook over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Check for tenderness with a fork. If you prefer it softer, cook a few extra minutes, but don’t let it go mushy!
With this method, you’ll get delicious cabbage that holds its shape and flavor proudly in your skillet dinner!
Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1/2 medium head of green cabbage, thinly sliced (about 4 cups)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 20-25 minutes in total, with 10-15 minutes for preparation and about 10 minutes for cooking. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s hearty and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Keep cooking until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If you notice any excess fat, feel free to drain it from the pan.
2. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic into the skillet. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the onions turn translucent and the mixture gets fragrant. This step adds depth to your beefy base!
3. Add Seasonings:
Now it’s time to infuse some flavor! Stir in the smoked paprika, dried thyme (or Italian seasoning), salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like some heat. Mix everything well so that the spices coat the beef and veggies evenly.
4. Incorporate the Cabbage:
Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet along with the beef broth or water. Stir everything together well to combine. The liquid helps the cabbage steam and soften while cooking.
5. Cook and Cover:
Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the cabbage to be tender yet still a bit crunchy for the best texture. Check the tenderness with a fork—if you’d like it softer, let it cook a bit longer.
6. Final Touches:
Now, taste your delicious dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may want a little more salt or pepper, depending on your preference!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your hearty skillet dinner with fresh parsley or chopped green onions for a pop of color. Serve it hot, and enjoy this simple, wholesome meal that the whole family will love!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner
Can I Substitute the Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives if you prefer a leaner meat option. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a delicious vegetarian version!
How Do I Store Leftover Skillet Dinner?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You might want to add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist while reheating.
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Dish?
Definitely! This skillet dinner is versatile. You can incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even zucchini. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add them in with the cabbage to cook until tender.
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but serving it over rice, quinoa, or noodles makes it even more filling. A simple green salad on the side would complement it nicely, too!
