Hey there, food-loving friend! Get ready to fall head over heels for this Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl—simple, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying. The beef is juicy, the cabbage is tender, and the whole dish is infused with a medley of spices that’ll have your kitchen smelling like pure magic. Trust me, this one’s going to become a regular in your dinner rotation. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet
Versatile: It works for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even as a crowd-pleasing dish at potlucks.
Budget-Friendly: Ground beef and cabbage are super affordable but pack a ton of flavor.
Quick & Easy: Perfect for when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and a load of vitamins from the cabbage.
Customizable: Spice it up with your favorite seasonings or toss in extra veggies to make it your own.
Ingredients
Here’s the magic behind this hearty skillet meal. These everyday ingredients come together in the most delicious way:
Ingredients in Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet
Ground Beef: The savory base that gives this dish its heartiness. Use lean or fatty cuts based on your preference.
Cabbage: Adds a tender crunch and soaks up all the rich flavors of the skillet.
Onion: Sweet and caramelized, it provides a depth of flavor that ties the dish together.
Garlic: Because what’s a cozy meal without that aromatic kick?
Tomato Paste: A tangy richness that elevates the dish.
Beef Broth: For a touch of moisture and a deeper, savory flavor.
Seasonings: Think paprika, thyme, and a dash of chili flakes for a hint of heat.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Dice the onions, mince the garlic, and shred the cabbage. It’s all about setting yourself up for smooth cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Toss in the onion and garlic. Cook until fragrant and the onions are translucent. This is where the kitchen starts to smell amazing!
Step 4: Stir in the Tomato Paste
Add the tomato paste to the skillet and stir until evenly mixed. Let it cook for a minute to deepen its flavor.
Step 5: Wilt the Cabbage
Gradually add the shredded cabbage to the skillet. It’ll seem like a lot at first, but it cooks down beautifully.
Step 6: Simmer Away
Pour in the beef broth and sprinkle in your seasonings. Give everything a good stir, cover, and let it simmer until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld together.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Spoon this hearty dish onto plates and dig in. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top never hurts!
How to Serve Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet
With Crusty Bread: To soak up all those savory juices.
Over Rice or Noodles: For a complete, comforting meal.
As-Is: It’s hearty enough to stand alone!
Topped with Cheese: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Parmesan adds a luscious finishing touch.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: Chop the cabbage and onions the night before for an even quicker meal.
Spice Level: Want more heat? Add extra chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Storage: Leftovers keep well in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Make a double batch and freeze half for a future dinner win.
FAQ
Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
A1: Absolutely! Ground turkey works beautifully as a leaner alternative.
Q2: Can I add other veggies?
A2: Of course! Carrots, bell peppers, or even zucchini would be great additions.
Q3: Is this dish keto-friendly?
A3: Yes! Just ensure your tomato paste and broth are low in carbs.
Q4: Can I make it vegetarian?
A4: Swap the beef for lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
A5: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to prevent drying out.
Conclusion
So, what do you think? This Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is comfort food at its finest, with a little flair of homemade magic. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or just treating yourself, it’s a dish that delivers every single time. Ready to give it a try? Grab your skillet, and let’s get cooking!
PrintHearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet
This Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is a one-pan comfort food wonder! Packed with nutritious cabbage, lean ground beef, and flavorful tomatoes, it’s a quick and easy dinner idea that’s both filling and budget-friendly. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
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Main Ingredients:
- Lean ground beef: 1 pound; hearty and protein-packed.
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped; adds sweetness and depth.
- Cabbage: 1 small head, chopped; tender and nutritious.
- Diced tomatoes with juice: 2 cans (14.5 oz each); provides a rich, tangy base.
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon; for sautéing.
Seasonings:
- Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon; for bold, savory flavor.
- Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon; adds an aromatic herbal touch.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): 1/2 teaspoon; for a hint of heat.
- Salt and pepper: To taste; enhances and balances flavors.
Instructions
- Sauté the Onion:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until translucent.
- Brown the Ground Beef:
- Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions.
- Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the Mixture:
- Stir in garlic powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
- Mix well to combine flavors.
- Add Cabbage and Tomatoes:
- Incorporate the chopped cabbage into the skillet.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice.
- Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 25 minutes, until the cabbage is tender.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve hot, optionally over rice or with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
For extra protein, add a can of drained and rinsed beans.
Use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter alternative to ground beef.
This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 17g
- Cholesterol: 40mg