Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet

This Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is a simple, hearty one-pan meal packed with savory beef, tender cabbage, and flavorful seasonings. It’s budget-friendly, low in carbs, and ready in about 30 minutes.

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 1 lb (450 g) lean ground beef
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
• 1 medium carrot, shredded (optional)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• ½ cup (120 ml) beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Optional Add-Ins

• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Sliced mushrooms
• Bell peppers

Instructions

1. Brown the beef
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the ground beef and cook for 5–7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon until browned.
   • Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Cook the aromatics
   • Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes, until softened.
   • Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the cabbage
   • Stir in the chopped cabbage and shredded carrot (if using).
   • Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to soften.
4. Season
   • Add the tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
   • Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer
   • Cover and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and most of the liquid has evaporated.
6. Serve
   • Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
   • Serve hot on its own or with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or steamed rice.

Tips

• Use 80/20 ground beef for more flavor or lean ground beef for a lighter meal.
• Don’t overcook the cabbage—it should be tender with a slight bite.
• Add shredded cheese during the last few minutes for a creamy, cheesy version.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4