This Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is a hearty, flavor-packed meal made in just one pan. With tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic spices, it’s the perfect balance of comfort food and healthy eating. Ready in about 30 minutes, this budget-friendly dinner is ideal for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or anyone looking for a low-carb, gluten-free option without sacrificing flavor.
Who is This Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
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Busy home cooks who need a quick, one-pan meal
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Budget-conscious families looking for inexpensive, filling dinners
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Low-carb or keto eaters who still want big flavor
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Anyone who enjoys comfort food with a hint of spice
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Meal preppers who want a dish that reheats well
Why It’s Great
✅ One-pan convenience – less cleanup
✅ Healthy and hearty – packed with protein and veggies
✅ Customizable – adjust the spices or add extra vegetables
✅ Perfect for meal prep – stores and reheats beautifully
✅ Budget-friendly – simple ingredients that stretch a long way
Ingredients
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1 small cabbage, chopped into small pieces
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1 pound ground beef
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1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
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1 cup chopped onions
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2 garlic cloves, finely minced
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1 tablespoon powdered broth seasoning
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½ teaspoon cumin
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¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika
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Salt, to taste
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Large skillet or cast-iron pan
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Wooden spoon or spatula
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Sharp knife
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Cutting board
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Measuring spoons
Instructions
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Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until browned and cooked through. -
Sauté the Aromatics
Push the beef to one side of the skillet. Add a small drizzle of oil if needed, then sauté the onions and garlic on the other side for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent. -
Add Tomatoes and Seasoning
Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), broth seasoning, cumin, cayenne, smoked paprika, and salt. Mix well and bring to a gentle simmer. -
Simmer for Flavor
Reduce heat to medium and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning as needed. -
Incorporate the Cabbage
Add chopped cabbage to the skillet. Stir well and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but not mushy. -
Serve and Enjoy
Dish up hot and serve with bread, rice, or as a standalone low-carb meal.
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
A: Yes! Just note the flavor will be slightly different, and you may need to add extra oil for lean meats.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Swap ground beef for lentils or plant-based crumbles.
Q: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
A: Yes — just ensure your diced tomatoes don’t have added sugar.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots work great in this dish.
Conclusion
The Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is a go-to recipe for anyone who wants a quick, nourishing, and satisfying dinner with minimal cleanup. With bold spices, tender cabbage, and juicy tomatoes, this dish is as comforting as it is easy to make. Whether you serve it on its own, over rice, or with crusty bread, it’s sure to become a weeknight favorite.
