Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet -

Looking for a hearty, budget-friendly meal that’s both comforting and easy to prepare? This Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet is a one-pan wonder that brings together simple ingredients and bold flavors. Whether you’re short on time or just craving something homemade and satisfying, this dish delivers every time. With tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and the rich tang of tomatoes, each bite is packed with goodness — and it all comes together in under 30 minutes.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even cozy gatherings, this recipe proves that you don’t need fancy ingredients to create something truly delicious. Plus, it’s customizable, low-carb friendly, and incredibly filling. Don’t lose this recipe — it might just become a new family favorite! 😋

Ingredients

1 small cabbage, chopped
1 lb ground beef
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup onions, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon bouillon powder (beef or vegetable)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon dried thyme
2 tablespoons olive oil
Optional: red pepper flakes for a kick, fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics
In a large, deep skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for about 3 minutes until they soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Brown the Beef
Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until fully browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add Seasonings and Tomatoes
Sprinkle in the bouillon powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and thyme. Stir well to coat the beef in all the spices. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and mix everything thoroughly.
Cook the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage on top of the beef mixture. Don’t worry if it looks like a lot — it will shrink as it cooks. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for 10–12 minutes on medium-low heat. Stir occasionally to combine the cabbage with the beef and let the flavors meld.
Simmer & Soften
Continue cooking uncovered for another 5 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the juices reduce slightly. If you like a bit of crunch, cook for less time. For a softer texture, simmer a little longer.
Garnish and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or a pinch of chili flakes for extra flavor. Serve hot — on its own or over steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or even buttered noodles.

🔄 Alternative Tips & Substitutions

Swap the Protein:
Don’t have ground beef or want a leaner option? Substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat crumbles for a vegetarian twist.
Add Extra Veggies:
For more nutrition and texture, stir in shredded carrots, sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. These blend beautifully with cabbage and absorb the flavors well.
Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly:
Skip the tomatoes or use fresh diced ones in moderation, and avoid sugar-heavy sauces. You can also add a spoon of cream cheese or grated cheese at the end for richness.
Spice It Up:
Like heat? Add a dash of crushed red pepper, cayenne pepper, or a bit of hot sauce during cooking to give the dish a spicy kick.
Boost Umami Flavor:
Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or fish sauce to deepen the savory flavor profile.
Make It a Casserole:
After cooking, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle shredded cheese on top, and bake for 10 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Serve It Differently:
Serve over steamed rice, mashed potatoes, quinoa, or even stuff it into wraps or tortillas for a quick handheld meal.
Add Freshness at the End:
A squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill adds a bright finishing touch.

Conclusion

This Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly comforting and flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a busy weeknight or preparing meals ahead of time, this dish brings warmth, nutrition, and satisfaction to the table — all in one pan.

With its versatility and heartiness, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. So don’t lose this one — save it, share it, and make it your own with your favorite twists. Happy cooking! 🥘✨