If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort meal that comes together in a single pan, let me introduce you to the Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet. This dish is all about bold flavors, fuss-free prep, and that unbeatable satisfaction you get from a cozy, home-cooked meal. Juicy ground beef, tender cabbage, sweet carrots, and vibrant tomatoes all meld in a savory sauce you’ll want to scoop up with a crusty piece of bread. It’s perfect for a busy weeknight or a chilly weekend, bringing warmth and nourishment in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the reasons I adore this recipe is how each ingredient earns its place in the pan, adding layers of taste and texture. You’ll find that simple, real-food staples come together here for a fabulous result, with each component shining in its own way.
- Ground beef: Brings rich, savory flavor and protein, making this skillet so satisfying.
- Olive oil: Adds a silky base for sautéing the onion and keeps everything from sticking.
- Onion: Infuses sweetness and aroma to the entire dish right from the beginning.
- Garlic: Delivers that unmistakable fragrant punch, taking the flavor up a notch.
- Green cabbage: Softens beautifully and carries the sauce, bulking up the meal with hearty texture.
- Carrot: Offers subtle sweetness and a pop of color—plus, it sneaks in some extra veggies.
- Diced tomatoes (with juice): Lend tang, juiciness, and serve as the foundation for the savory sauce.
- Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor, creating depth and richness in the skillet.
- Paprika: Adds gentle warmth and an earthy touch that makes this comfort food sing.
- Dried thyme: Brings in a whisper of woodsy, aromatic flavor that complements the veggies.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors in the pan.
- Black pepper: Offers subtle heat and rounds out the seasoning.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Perfect if you like a little extra kick!
- Beef broth or water: Helps everything simmer together and adds depth of flavor.
- Chopped fresh parsley: A bright, fresh finish right before serving.
How to Make Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Let’s kick things off by heating olive oil in your largest, sturdiest skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add chopped onion and sauté it for about 2 to 3 minutes until it becomes soft and fragrant. Next, toss in the minced garlic and let it mingle for just 30 seconds—it’ll become the aromatic foundation for your skillet.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Now, let’s make the star of our Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet shine. Add ground beef and break it up with a spoon as it cooks. You want it browned and crumbly, with no pink left. If there’s extra grease, carefully drain it off at this point—this keeps your finished dish delicious, not greasy.
Step 3: Build the Savory Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes (juice and all), paprika, thyme, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a hint of heat. Mixing in these ingredients now allows the beef to soak up all those bold flavors, building depth from the bottom up.
Step 4: Add the Veggies
Scatter chopped cabbage and shredded carrot over the beef mixture. Pour in the beef broth or water to help everything simmer and stay tender. Give it all a good stir to combine, then cover the skillet. Let it gently simmer over medium-low heat for 12–15 minutes—just long enough for the cabbage to go from crunchy to melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Step 5: Simmer Uncovered
Once the cabbage is right where you want it, remove the skillet lid. Let the mixture cook for 5 minutes more. This gives excess liquid a chance to evaporate and lets the flavors concentrate. The finished dish should be saucy, not watery, with beautifully mingled flavors.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Right before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. This last pop of green wakes up the whole plate and adds a burst of freshness to your Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet. Scoop generous portions into bowls and dig in!
How to Serve Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet
Garnishes
A handful of chopped parsley is classic for a reason—it cuts through the savory richness and looks gorgeous against the vibrant veggies. For an extra treat, try a pinch of grated parmesan or a dollop of sour cream. A squeeze of lemon can also brighten up the whole dish!
Side Dishes
This meal practically stands on its own, but a slice of crusty bread is a dreamy accompaniment for soaking up every drop of sauce. If you like, spoon your skillet over steaming rice or buttery mashed potatoes. For something lighter, a side salad with a tangy vinaigrette makes a fresh contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet in individual bowls topped with a swirl of Greek yogurt and a scatter of extra herbs. Or, pile it high on a toasted baguette for a hearty open-faced sandwich. If you’re feeding a crowd, keep the skillet hot on a buffet with lots of topping options so everyone can make their own signature bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers are a gift with this dish! Let your Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for up to four days and the flavors only deepen as it rests.
Freezing
Good news: this skillet freezes wonderfully! Pack portions into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Label and lay them flat in the freezer so they thaw evenly. They’ll keep their best quality for up to three months—perfect for pulling out on a busy night.
Reheating
To reheat, simply scoop your portion back into a skillet with a splash of broth or water to loosen things up. Warm it over medium heat until bubbling hot. The microwave works, too—stir halfway through for even heating. Don’t forget to freshen up with new parsley before serving!
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Both turkey and chicken are great substitutes for a lighter version. Just be sure to season generously and maybe add a drizzle of olive oil, as leaner meats can sometimes be a little drier.
Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?
You sure can! Swap the ground beef for plant-based crumbles or a can of lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and you’ll still have a super satisfying one-pan dinner.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely—this dish loves a little improvisation! Bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms all work beautifully, so throw in what you have and make it your own.
What’s the best way to cut cabbage for this recipe?
Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, roughly one-inch squares. The idea is to keep the pieces evenly sized so they cook at the same rate and blend easily with the other ingredients.
Is the Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet low carb?
Yes! This recipe naturally fits low carb and gluten-free plans, so it’s a smart pick for anyone looking to cut down on carbs without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like gathering around the table for a meal cooked with heart, and this Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet will quickly become a favorite in your rotation. I hope you give it a try—your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is a flavorful one-pan meal that’s easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Packed with ground beef, cabbage, and aromatic spices, this dish is satisfying and comforting.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Vegetables and Seasonings:
- 1/2 head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 medium carrot, shredded
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup beef broth or water
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare Ground Beef Mixture: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion until softened, then add garlic and cook briefly. Brown ground beef, breaking it apart. Drain excess grease if needed.
- Cook the Dish: Stir in tomato paste, diced tomatoes, paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Add cabbage, carrot, and broth. Simmer covered for 12–15 minutes until cabbage is tender.
- Finish and Serve: Uncover and cook for 5 more minutes to reduce liquid. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- This dish is versatile; try adding bell peppers or using ground turkey. Serve over rice or with bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
