This Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner is a quick, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy nights! With tasty ground beef and crunchy cabbage, it’s sure to please everyone.
The best part? You can whip it up in just 30 minutes! I love throwing in some spices to jazz it up—because who doesn’t want a little flavor fiesta in their dinner? 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I use lean ground beef for a good balance of flavor and fat. If you’re looking for a healthier option, ground turkey or chicken works well, too. Plant-based meat substitutes like lentils or crumbled tofu can be great for a veggie twist!
Cabbage: Green cabbage is fantastic for this recipe, but you could also use savoy cabbage for a softer texture or even kale for a different green. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly as kale may need less time to wilt.
Onion: A standard yellow onion adds sweetness. If you’re short on time, green onions can be used instead, adding a fresh crunch to the dish. Red onions also offer a nice flavor twist!
Spices: Smoked paprika is my secret weapon for depth. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or even chili powder can substitute. If you like it spicy, feel free to bump up the red pepper flakes!
How Do I Ensure the Cabbage is Cooked Perfectly?
Getting the cabbage just right is key to this dish. You want it tender but not mushy!
- After adding cabbage, stir it into the beef mixture so it gets coated with flavor.
- Cover the skillet to help it steam and soften faster.
- Check it after 8 minutes; a little crunch is great, so don’t overcook it!
Enjoy your cooking, and feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste! This dish is super flexible and always delicious!
Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small head of green cabbage, shredded (about 4 cups)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional for extra flavor)
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious dinner can be ready in about 30 minutes! You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep and around 20 minutes cooking everything together. It’s a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook until it turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 additional minute until the garlic is fragrant. This will add a wonderful aroma to your dish!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef into the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Stir occasionally and cook until the beef is browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it for a leaner dish!
3. Season the Mixture:
Once the beef is cooked, stir in the smoked paprika, salt, ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. This is where the flavor starts to come alive!
4. Add the Cabbage:
Toss the shredded cabbage into the skillet and stir it into the beef mixture. It will look like a lot at first, but it wilts down as it cooks.
5. Combine and Cook:
Pour the beef broth (or water) and Worcestershire sauce into the skillet. Stir everything well, then cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender yet still slightly crisp.
6. Final Touches:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. When it’s just right, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a burst of color and flavor!
Serve this hearty dish hot, and enjoy it on its own, or pair it with some crusty bread or rice for a truly satisfying meal! Bon appétit!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner
Can I Use Ground Turkey or Chicken Instead of Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a great substitute for ground beef. Just keep in mind it may be a bit leaner, so you might want to add a touch more oil when cooking for added moisture and flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Cabbage?
If you’re not a fan of cabbage, you can use kale or even chopped spinach. Both should be added towards the end of cooking for optimal texture. Just cook until they are wilted but still vibrant!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist while reheating!
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles, lentils, or chickpeas. You can also add in some extra veggies like bell peppers or carrots for more texture and flavor.