If you’re craving a comforting, filling, and downright delicious meal that comes together with ease, then this Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is an absolute must-try. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day, blending savory ground beef with tender cabbage and a punch of flavors from paprika and Worcestershire sauce. Every bite boasts a lovely balance of textures and flavors, making it a perfect go-to dinner that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Once you get a taste of this skillet magic, it’s bound to become a staple in your weeknight dinner rotation.

Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe shines because it uses simple, readily available ingredients that each bring their own special touch. From the rich, savory depth of the ground beef to the fresh crunch of cabbage, every item plays an essential role in building layers of flavor and texture.

1 pound ground beef: The star protein that adds hearty richness to the dish.
4 cups green cabbage, chopped: Adds a delicate crunch and vibrant color while soaking up the savory juices.
1 medium onion, diced: Provides sweetness and aromatic depth.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Packs a punch of flavor and warmth.
1 teaspoon paprika: Gives a smoky, slightly sweet spice that lifts the dish.
½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors perfectly.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick and complexity.
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Contributes an umami richness and tang.
1 cup beef broth: Keeps everything moist and infuses extra meaty flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Used to sauté the vegetables and prevent sticking.
Optional chopped parsley for garnish: Freshens and brightens up the final presentation.

How to Make Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the diced onion. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and tender—this takes about three minutes and lays down a flavorful foundation. Next, toss in the minced garlic and give it about a minute to release its fragrant aroma without browning or burning.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Crank up the heat to medium-high and add your ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it apart as it cooks until it’s beautifully browned and no longer pink, around 5 to 7 minutes. This step is where a lot of flavor develops so take your time to get that perfect sear.

Step 3: Drain Excess Fat

Once the beef has cooked through, drain any excess fat from the pan to keep your dish from feeling greasy without sacrificing tenderness.

Step 4: Add Cabbage and Seasonings

Stir in the chopped cabbage, paprika, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. The cabbage will start to wilt down but still retain plenty of texture. Pour in the beef broth, which adds moisture and encourages the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Simmer to Tenderness

Cover the skillet and lower the heat to medium-low. Let everything cook gently for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure the cabbage softens evenly and soaks up all those savory juices.

Step 6: Final Taste and Adjustments

Give your skillet a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Sometimes a little extra salt or pepper can perfect the balance. When ready, sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for a lovely fresh contrast and serve it piping hot.

How to Serve Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

Garnishes

Adding a handful of freshly chopped parsley is an easy way to brighten the dish and add a pop of color. For a little extra flair, you could also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes if you love a bit of heat or a drizzle of tangy sour cream to mellow the robust flavors.

Side Dishes

This Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet stands beautifully on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a crusty loaf of bread to scoop up every bit of goodness. For a more complete meal, serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or a simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to add freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Imagine spooning the skillet mixture over fluffy cooked rice or even stuffing it into warm pita pockets for a fun twist. This recipe also makes a stellar filling for baked potatoes or wraps. No matter how you present it, the blend of flavors will shine through and bring smiles to the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 to 4 days, making for an effortless lunch or dinner option when you’re short on time.

Freezing

If you want to keep this hearty dish longer, it freezes well. Just spoon cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of beef broth or water if the skillet seems a bit dry. Alternatively, a microwave works well for quick reheats—just cover to retain moisture and heat in short bursts.

FAQs

Can I substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used to make a lighter version of this skillet. Just keep in mind the flavor profile will be a bit milder, so you might want to add a little extra seasoning or smoked paprika for depth.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, try swapping the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Using vegetable broth instead of beef broth will keep the flavors balanced and still delicious.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like heat, mix in some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes along with the paprika. Adding a dash of hot sauce at the end also works to amp up the spice without overpowering the other flavors.

What type of cabbage is best for this recipe?

Green cabbage is classic here because it holds up well during cooking and offers a mild, slightly sweet flavor. However, you can experiment with savoy or even napa cabbage for subtle differences in texture and taste.

Can I prepare this dish in advance for meal prep?

Definitely! This Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is perfect for meal prep as it reheats beautifully and retains its flavor and texture. Cook in bulk and portion it out for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the way this Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet brings comfort and simplicity together in one delicious package. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving a fulfilling solo meal, it’s a dish that covers all the bases. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes your new favorite—warm, satisfying, and made with love.

Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 25 reviews

Author: Sophie
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Low Carb

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Description

This Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is a comforting, nutritious one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender ground beef with sautéed onions, garlic, and flavorful cabbage simmered in savory beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, this skillet dish is both easy to prepare and packed with satisfying flavors. It’s a wholesome, low-carb recipe that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a side of crusty bread or rice.

Instructions

Heat olive oil: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
Sauté onion and garlic: Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute to release their flavors.
Cook ground beef: Increase the heat to medium-high, add the ground beef, and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon for even cooking, about 5-7 minutes.
Drain excess fat: Carefully drain any excess fat from the pan to avoid greasiness and make the dish healthier.
Add cabbage and seasonings: Stir in the chopped cabbage, paprika, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth, ensuring everything is evenly mixed.
Simmer covered: Cover the skillet, reduce heat to medium-low, and cook for 10-12 minutes until the cabbage is tender, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the dish and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Notes

For a leaner dish, choose ground beef with lower fat content, such as 90% lean.
If beef broth is unavailable, chicken broth or vegetable broth can be substituted.
To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure Worcestershire sauce used is gluten-free.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
This recipe is versatile; you can add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing and Simmering
Cuisine: American