Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet

A hearty, flavorful one-pan meal made with seasoned ground beef, tender chopped cabbage, garlic, onions, and tomatoes. It’s simple to prepare, comforting, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Main ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 1 medium green cabbage, chopped (about 6–7 cups)

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 medium bell pepper, chopped (optional)

• 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• ½ cup beef broth or water

Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon ground cumin

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ¾ teaspoon salt, or to taste

• ¼–½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)

For garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the vegetables

Wash the cabbage, remove any damaged outer leaves, and cut it into bite-sized pieces. Chop the onion and bell pepper, and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Brown the ground beef

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or deep frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula until browned and cooked through.

If there is excessive fat, carefully drain some off, leaving a little behind for flavor.

Step 3: Add onion and garlic

Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the beef. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the onion begins to soften.

Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 4: Season the beef

Add the paprika, Italian seasoning, cumin, black pepper, salt, red pepper flakes, and Worcestershire sauce, if using. Stir well so the seasonings coat the beef evenly.

Step 5: Add the tomatoes

Pour in the diced tomatoes and stir to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors begin to develop.

Step 6: Add the chopped cabbage

Add the cabbage in batches if your skillet is too full. Pour in the beef broth or water and stir everything together.

The cabbage will look bulky at first but will shrink as it cooks.

Step 7: Cover and simmer

Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for 12–18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but not mushy.

• For firmer cabbage, cook for less time.

• For softer cabbage, simmer a little longer.

• If the mixture becomes too dry, add a small splash of broth or water.

Step 8: Adjust and serve

Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, and spices. Add lemon juice if desired for a fresh finish. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Tips for the Best Results

• Choose your beef: Lean ground beef works well and produces less excess grease.

• Avoid soggy cabbage: Do not add too much liquid, and cook uncovered for the final few minutes if needed.

• Make it spicy: Add extra chili flakes or a little hot sauce.

• Add more vegetables: Carrots, zucchini, mushrooms, or celery work nicely.

• Make it cheesy: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the skillet during the last few minutes and cover until melted.

What to Serve With It

• Steamed rice

• Mashed or roasted potatoes

• Warm crusty bread

• Cauliflower rice

• A fresh cucumber and tomato salad

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months for best quality.

• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed. Reheat leftovers thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?

Yes. Red cabbage works, although it has a slightly stronger flavor and may take a little longer to soften.

Q2: Can I make this recipe without tomatoes?

Yes. Leave out the tomatoes and use a little extra beef broth. The result will be more like a savory beef-and-cabbage skillet.

Q3: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely. Ground turkey or chicken can replace the beef. Cook poultry thoroughly to a safe internal temperature of 74°C (165°F).

Q4: How do I prevent the cabbage from becoming watery?

Use only the suggested amount of broth, avoid overcrowding the pan with excess liquid, and simmer uncovered at the end to evaporate extra moisture.

Q5: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes. Divide it into individual airtight containers and refrigerate or freeze. Reheat only the portion you plan to eat.

Quick Recipe Card

Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage

Brown 450 g ground beef in olive oil. Add onion, garlic, bell pepper, and seasonings. Stir in diced tomatoes, chopped cabbage, and ½ cup broth. Cover and simmer for 12–18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the beef is fully cooked. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Enjoy this comforting, savory one-pan dinner! 🥬🥩