Ground Beef Cabbage Skillet: A Flavorful and Easy Weeknight Meal

Ground beef and cabbage are a surprisingly delicious and economical combination. This one-pan Ground Beef Cabbage Skillet recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s a hearty, healthy, and satisfying meal that comes together in minutes. Let’s explore the best way to make this culinary classic.

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

This recipe isn’t just about convenience; it’s about flavor and versatility. Here’s why it’s a winner:

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and one-pan cleanup.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilizes inexpensive, readily available ingredients.
• Healthy and Delicious: Packed with protein and vegetables.
• Customizable: Easily adaptable to your taste preferences and dietary needs.
• Satisfying: A filling and flavorful meal that will keep you satisfied.

The Perfect Ground Beef Cabbage Skillet Recipe

This recipe provides a foundation; feel free to experiment with spices and additions to create your own signature dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (80/20 or leaner)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded (about 6 cups)
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1/2 cup beef broth or water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: sour cream, green onions, shredded cheese

Instructions:

1. Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.

2. Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add Cabbage and Tomatoes: Add shredded cabbage and diced tomatoes (undrained) to the skillet. Stir to combine.

4. Simmer: Pour in beef broth or water. Season with paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until cabbage is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Serve: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, topped with sour cream, green onions, or shredded cheese, if desired.

Tips for the Best Skillet

• Choose the right ground beef: 80/20 ground beef provides good flavor, but be sure to drain off the excess grease. For a leaner option, use 90/10 ground beef or ground turkey.
• Shred the cabbage properly: Thinly shredded cabbage cooks more evenly. You can use a knife, a mandoline, or a food processor.
• Don’t overcook the cabbage: Overcooked cabbage can become mushy. Cook it until it’s tender-crisp.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Add other vegetables: Carrots, bell peppers, and mushrooms are great additions.
• Use pre-shredded cabbage: Save time by using pre-shredded cabbage (coleslaw mix).
• Add Worcestershire sauce: A splash of Worcestershire sauce adds depth of flavor.
• Let it rest: Allowing the skillet to rest for a few minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld together.

Variations and Additions

This Ground Beef Cabbage Skillet is a blank canvas for culinary creativity. Here are some ideas to personalize your dish:

• Mexican-Inspired: Add taco seasoning, corn, black beans, and salsa. Top with avocado and cilantro.
• Italian-Inspired: Add Italian seasoning, diced bell peppers, and tomato sauce. Top with mozzarella cheese.
• Asian-Inspired: Add soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil. Top with sesame seeds and green onions.
• Keto-Friendly: Omit the diced tomatoes or use a low-carb tomato sauce alternative. Add extra vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red chili flakes, a diced jalapeño, or a dash of hot sauce.
• Smoked Sausage: Replace some or all of the ground beef with smoked sausage for a smoky flavor.
• Rice or Potatoes: Serve over rice or mashed potatoes for a more substantial meal.
• Beans: Add a can of drained and rinsed beans (such as kidney beans or cannellini beans) for added protein and fiber.

Flavor Enhancers

Small additions can make a big difference. Consider these flavor boosters:

• Soy Sauce: A splash of soy sauce adds umami and saltiness.
• Worcestershire Sauce: Adds depth and complexity.
• Balsamic Vinegar: A touch of balsamic vinegar adds sweetness and acidity.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds a smoky flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, or oregano add brightness and freshness.
• Garlic Powder or Onion Powder: Enhance the savory flavors.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Add a touch of heat.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Ground Beef Cabbage Skillet is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways:

• As a Main Course: Serve it as is for a simple and satisfying meal.
• Over Rice or Potatoes: Serve over rice or mashed potatoes to make it more filling.
• In Lettuce Wraps: Serve in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
• With a Side Salad: Pair it with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
• With Crusty Bread: Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the delicious sauce.

Pairing suggestions:

• Bread: Crusty bread, garlic bread, or cornbread.
• Salad: Green salad, coleslaw, or cucumber salad.
• Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, steamed green beans, or sautéed spinach.
• Beverages: Beer, red wine, or iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftovers are your friend! Properly stored, this skillet reheats beautifully.

• Storage: Allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if it seems dry.
• Freezing: You can freeze this skillet for longer storage. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions about making Ground Beef Cabbage Skillet:

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

A: Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, as ground turkey tends to cook faster than ground beef. You can also use ground chicken or even ground sausage.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?

A: Absolutely! Using pre-shredded cabbage (coleslaw mix) is a convenient way to save time.

Q: How do I prevent the cabbage from becoming mushy?

A: Avoid overcooking the cabbage. Cook it until it’s tender-crisp, not completely soft. Also, make sure the skillet isn’t overcrowded, as this can lead to steaming instead of sautéing.

Q: Can I add other vegetables?

A: Yes, feel free to add other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini. Add them along with the cabbage and cook until tender.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and onion in a skillet first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

Q: Is this recipe gluten-free?

A: Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free, especially if you have a severe allergy or intolerance.

Q: Can I add rice to this skillet?

A: Yes, you can add cooked rice to the skillet for a heartier meal. Stir in the rice during the last few minutes of cooking to heat it through.