If comfort food had a name, it would definitely be the Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe. This dish is a delightful harmony of tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a medley of spices that come together in one pan to create a hearty, satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week. Its simplicity masks a flavor-packed experience that warms you from the inside out, making it a go-to recipe when you want something quick, delicious, and loaded with good old-fashioned goodness.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is all it takes to bring this recipe to life. Each item plays a specific role, contributing layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color that make this skillet dish so memorable.
- Small cabbage, chopped: Provides a tender crunch and slightly sweet base that soaks up all the spices beautifully.
- 1 lb ground beef: Adds a rich, hearty component with plenty of protein to make it truly filling.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes: Brings acidity and moisture that balance the meat and cabbage perfectly.
- 1 cup onions, chopped: Offers sweetness and depth when sautéed, enhancing the overall flavor.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Delivers that essential savory punch everyone loves in a comforting skillet meal.
- 1 tablespoon bouillon powder: Boosts the savory umami notes, making each bite irresistibly savory.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Adds an earthy warmth that infuses the dish with subtle complexity.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Gives a gentle kick of heat that wakes up the senses without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Contributes a smoky flavor dimension that beautifully complements the beef.
- Salt to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors while balancing the spices.
How to Make Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until it’s beautifully browned, releasing mouthwatering aromas. Be sure to drain any excess fat so the dish isn’t greasy but still juicy and flavorful.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Next, toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté these until the onions become soft and translucent. This step is where the base flavors build, so taking your time here really pays off.
Step 3: Spice It Up
Now, sprinkle in the cumin, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and bouillon powder. Stir well and let the spices toast with the beef and aromatics for a couple of minutes—this releases their full depth and infuses the entire skillet with warmth and richness.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Cabbage
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and add the chopped cabbage. Mix everything thoroughly so every bite gets a perfect balance of tender cabbage and hearty beef.
Step 5: Simmer Until Tender
Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the mixture gently cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking softens the cabbage and allows the flavors to meld together like a comforting hug on your plate.
Step 6: Season and Reduce
Season with salt according to your taste. Then uncover the skillet and cook for about 5 more minutes, letting some of the excess liquid evaporate to concentrate the flavors even more.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Your Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe is ready to be devoured hot from the pan. This one-pan wonder is a breeze to make yet delivers unbeatable homemade goodness.
How to Serve Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese can elevate your skillet dinner with a fresh pop of color and an extra layer of flavor. A dollop of sour cream also brings a lovely creamy contrast to the spiced beef and cabbage.
Side Dishes
Pairing this skillet with warm crusty bread or steamed rice makes for a complete and hearty meal. If you want to keep it lighter, a crisp green salad with a tangy dressing complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your cabbage and beef mixture stuffed inside baked potatoes or rolled into soft tortillas for a delicious and portable dinner. It also works wonderfully topped with a fried egg for an extra special touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your fresh skillet meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 3 days, making it a perfect next-day lunch or weeknight dinner.
Freezing
This Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe freezes beautifully. Let the dish cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Frozen, it can last up to 2 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, just be sure to cover them to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cabbage in this recipe?
Absolutely! Green cabbage works best for its sweetness and tenderness, but you can experiment with Napa or Savoy cabbage for a slightly different texture and flavor profile.
Is ground beef the only protein that works here?
Not at all. Ground turkey or chicken are great lean alternatives, and even a plant-based ground meat substitute can work well to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
How spicy is this dish?
The amount of cayenne pepper gives it a gentle warmth that you can easily adjust. If you prefer less heat, simply reduce the cayenne or omit it entirely.
Can I add other vegetables to the skillet?
Yes! Chopped bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms can be sautéed along with the onions to add more variety, color, and nutrition.
What can I use instead of bouillon powder?
If you don’t have bouillon powder, a small amount of beef or vegetable broth concentrate or a good-quality broth cube dissolved in a little water will work just as well.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe that makes it a beloved comfort meal in any kitchen. Its simplicity, flavor-packed layers, and quick preparation make it a winner for busy nights or cozy dinners. Give this recipe a try and watch it become one of your cherished favorites too!
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Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 servings 1x
Description
This hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is a flavorful, comforting one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender cabbage simmers with savory ground beef, diced tomatoes, and a blend of warming spices, creating a satisfying dish that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 small cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup onions, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
Meat
- 1 lb ground beef
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon bouillon powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish lean and prevent greasiness.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onions become softened and translucent, releasing their aroma.
- Add spices: Stir in the cumin, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and bouillon powder. Allow the mixture to cook for 1-2 minutes to blend and awaken the flavors.
- Add vegetables: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and add the chopped cabbage. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly in the skillet.
- Simmer covered: Cover the skillet and reduce heat to medium-low. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage has softened to a tender texture.
- Season and reduce: Sprinkle salt to taste and cook uncovered for an additional 5 minutes. This helps reduce any excess liquid for a thicker consistency.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve hot. Enjoy this delicious, flavorful meal on its own or with your favorite side.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase cayenne pepper to 1/2 teaspoon.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a leaner option.
- Serve with rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to round out the meal.
- Leftovers store well and can be reheated in a skillet or microwave.
- Adjust salt according to the saltiness of your bouillon powder or broth seasoning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
