Cabbage and ground beef is a timeless combination that brings comfort and nourishment to the table without requiring hours of preparation. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly weeknight meal or a satisfying low-carb dish, this Hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is a perfect choice. This simple one-pan recipe is loaded with flavor, nutritious ingredients, and easy-to-find pantry staples. It’s a meal that can be customized in many ways to fit different dietary preferences while remaining delicious and satisfying.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain excess grease if necessary.
- Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to coat the beef evenly.
- Add the shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together.
- Cover and let simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and flavors are well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The History and Popularity of Cabbage and Ground Beef Dishes
Cabbage and ground beef have long been paired together in different cultures across the world, and for good reason. Cabbage is inexpensive, widely available, and packed with nutrients, while ground beef is a protein-rich ingredient that adds a rich and savory depth to meals.
This combination has been found in European, Asian, and American cuisines for centuries. In Eastern Europe, stuffed cabbage rolls—where ground beef is wrapped in cabbage leaves and simmered in tomato sauce—are a traditional comfort food. In Asian cuisine, cabbage stir-fries with beef or pork are common, often seasoned with soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Meanwhile, in the United States, ground beef and cabbage casseroles or skillet meals have become staples, especially for those looking for quick, hearty, and budget-friendly meals.
Over time, this classic pairing has evolved into countless variations, but the core idea remains the same: a satisfying, nutritious, and easy-to-make dish that brings families together around the dinner table.
Nutritional Benefits of Cabbage and Ground Beef
One of the best aspects of this dish is its nutritional profile. Both cabbage and ground beef provide essential nutrients that contribute to a well-balanced diet.
Cabbage: A Superfood in Disguise
Cabbage is often overlooked, but it’s one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available. It is packed with vitamins C and K, which support immune function and bone health. Additionally, cabbage is a great source of fiber, aiding digestion and keeping you full longer. It also contains powerful antioxidants, which help fight inflammation and support overall wellness.
Since cabbage is low in calories and carbohydrates, it is an excellent option for those following low-carb, keto, or weight-loss diets.
Ground Beef: A Protein Powerhouse
Ground beef provides high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle maintenance and overall body function. It is also a rich source of iron and B vitamins, which support energy production and red blood cell formation.
While ground beef can sometimes be high in fat, opting for lean or extra-lean ground beef keeps this dish on the healthier side. For an even lighter alternative, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted while maintaining the rich and savory flavors of the dish.
Flavor Variations and Customization Ideas
One of the best things about this Hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is its versatility. You can easily modify the recipe to suit different tastes, dietary preferences, or ingredients you have on hand.
1. Spicy Version
If you love a little heat in your meals, try adding cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or chopped jalapeños to the skillet. A splash of hot sauce can also bring an extra kick to the dish.
2. Cheesy Variation
For those who enjoy creamy and cheesy dishes, sprinkle shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or Parmesan over the cooked dish and let it melt before serving. This adds a rich, comforting twist to the recipe.
3. Low-Carb or Keto Option
This recipe is already low in carbs, but you can make it even more keto-friendly by using ground pork instead of beef for higher fat content. You can also add butter or heavy cream to enhance the richness.
4. Asian-Inspired Version
For an Asian flair, swap out the Worcestershire sauce for soy sauce or tamari, add a dash of sesame oil, and toss in some ginger and green onions. This creates a delicious stir-fry-style meal.
5. Vegetarian Alternative
To make this dish vegetarian, replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles, lentils, or mushrooms. A splash of soy sauce and nutritional yeast can enhance the umami flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This cabbage and ground beef skillet is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy it on its own, or pair it with different sides for a more complete meal. Here are some ideas:
- With Rice or Cauliflower Rice: Serve the dish over white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a more filling meal.
- With Mashed Potatoes: The savory flavors of the beef and cabbage pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes.
- With Crusty Bread: A warm slice of bread can soak up the delicious sauce and juices from the skillet.
- With a Fried Egg on Top: A sunny-side-up egg adds extra protein and a rich, velvety texture.
If you’re meal-prepping, this dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply reheat it in a skillet or microwave for a quick and satisfying meal.
Tips for Making the Best Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet
1. Choose the Right Cabbage
Green cabbage works best for this recipe because it holds up well when cooked. However, you can also use savoy cabbage or Napa cabbage for a slightly different texture.
2. Sauté the Beef First
Cooking the ground beef separately before adding the cabbage ensures that it gets a nice sear and enhances the flavor of the dish.
3. Don’t Overcook the Cabbage
For the best texture, cook the cabbage until it is just tender but still slightly crisp. Overcooking it can make it mushy.
4. Adjust Seasonings to Taste
Since cabbage has a mild flavor, the right amount of seasoning makes all the difference. Add more paprika, garlic, or black pepper based on your preference.
5. Make It a One-Pot Meal
To make this dish even easier, cook everything in one large skillet or Dutch oven to minimize cleanup.
Conclusion
This Hearty Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is the ultimate combination of simplicity, affordability, and flavor. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or feeding a hungry family on a budget. With its rich, savory taste and nutritious ingredients, it’s a meal that never goes out of style.
Whether you keep it classic or try one of the many variations, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try, and let the delicious flavors speak for themselves!
