Simple Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet

If you’re searching for a quick, budget-friendly, and hearty one-pan meal, this Simple Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is a winner. Made with tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and flavorful spices, this recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare.

Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you want comfort food without a lot of cleanup, this skillet dish delivers both nutrition and flavor in under 30 minutes. With its balance of protein, vegetables, and spices, it’s a wholesome meal that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with rice, bread, or potatoes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Meal – Less mess and fewer dishes.
• Healthy & Filling – A perfect mix of lean protein, fiber, and vitamins.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes.
• Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable, pantry-staple ingredients.
• Versatile Dish – Can be customized with different seasonings and add-ins.

Ingredients Breakdown

• Cabbage (1 small, chopped): Adds bulk, fiber, and natural sweetness.
• Ground Beef (1 lb): Provides hearty protein; choose lean beef for a lighter version.
• Diced Tomatoes (15 oz can): Adds acidity, flavor, and a saucy base.
• Onions (1 cup, chopped): Brings depth and sweetness to the dish.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Boosts flavor with a savory kick.
• Bouillon Powder (1 tbsp): Intensifies the savory richness.
• Cumin (½ tsp): Adds warmth and a mild earthiness.
• Cayenne Pepper (¼ tsp): Brings just the right amount of heat.
• Smoked Paprika (½ tsp): Gives a smoky depth and color.
• Salt (to taste): Enhances all the flavors.

Tips and Tricks

• Use a nonstick or cast-iron skillet for even cooking.
• Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly.
• If you like extra spice, add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
• For a lower-carb option, serve it as is, or pair with cauliflower rice.
• To make it lighter, substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef.

Variations and Customizations

• 🥔 Add Potatoes: Stir in diced potatoes for a heartier version.
• 🌽 Extra Veggies: Add carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for more nutrients.
• 🧀 Cheesy Twist: Top with shredded cheddar or mozzarella before serving.
• 🌿 Herb Upgrade: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for added freshness.
• 🍚 With Rice: Serve over steamed white rice or brown rice for a complete meal.

Pairing Suggestions

This dish is filling enough on its own, but you can serve it with:

• Freshly baked cornbread
• A side of mashed potatoes
• A simple green salad
• Steamed white or brown rice
• Warm buttered dinner rolls

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in meal-sized portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Popular Questions

1. Can I make this low-carb?
Yes! Skip the rice or bread and enjoy it as a high-protein, keto-friendly meal.

2. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely. Just chop 2–3 ripe tomatoes and cook them down slightly before adding cabbage.

3. What type of ground beef works best?
Lean ground beef (85–90% lean) is ideal because it’s flavorful but not overly greasy.

4. Can I prepare it ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep.