Ground Beef And Cabbage Skillet

Name: Ground Beef And Cabbage Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 small head of cabbage, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Dishes

I love making this Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet for dinner because it’s a one-pan meal that is both simple and incredibly satisfying. The flavors meld beautifully as the beef cooks down and the cabbage softens, creating a comforting dish that my whole family enjoys. I often keep the ingredients on hand for a quick weeknight dinner, and the leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a perfect meal prep option. Plus, it’s packed with protein and nutrients, making it a nourishing choice for any day of the week.

Created by

Sophia Lane

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:05:36.317Z

When developing this Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet, I aimed for a balance of flavor, nutrition, and convenience. I experimented with various seasonings, ultimately settling on garlic and soy sauce, which really elevate the dish. Each bite is packed with juicy beef and tender cabbage, and the colors make the skillet visually appealing, too!

One tip I learned is to sauté the beef until it’s nicely browned before adding the cabbage, which ensures the flavors deepen significantly. Plus, I love that you can customize it with whatever spices you have at home or even add in other veggies, making it a versatile recipe for any pantry.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling yet nutritious
Quick preparation and cleanup.
Flexible ingredients allow for personalization

Cooking Techniques

Searing the ground beef in the skillet at a medium heat is essential for developing rich, deep flavors. I recommend keeping an eye on the meat as it cooks; you want it to be browned and caramelized, which takes about 8-10 minutes. If you rush this step and cook at too high a heat, the beef may become tough rather than tender. Breaking it apart into smaller pieces while it cooks also enhances texture in the final dish.

When adding the diced onion and garlic, ensure that you cook them just until the onion turns translucent, usually around 3-4 minutes. This step builds the aromatic base for your dish. Be careful not to let the garlic brown too much, as it can turn bitter; you’re looking for a fragrant, soft mixture that will complement the beef.

Ingredient Insights

Cabbage plays a crucial role in this dish, not only providing bulk but also nutrition. It adds a satisfying crunch and sweetness when cooked. If you prefer a different vegetable, kale or Swiss chard can be used as substitutes; just remember they may require slight adjustments in cooking time since they wilt faster than cabbage.

The soy sauce adds umami depth to the dish. For a gluten-free option, consider tamari sauce, which offers a similar flavor profile. Adjust the quantity based on your taste; you might enjoy experimenting with additional seasonings, such as a touch of sesame oil for an aromatic twist or red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
1 small head of cabbage, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 8-10 minutes.

Add Veggies

Once the beef is browned, drain excess fat. Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 12-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is wilted and tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve hot and enjoy this hearty one-pan meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating other veggies like bell peppers or carrots, and adjust the seasoning to your liking. You can also top with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese before serving.

Storage and Reheating

One of the best aspects of the Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is its ability to taste even better the next day. To store leftovers, simply transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, do so on medium-low heat to prevent overcooking the beef, stirring periodically to ensure even warming.

If you plan to freeze this dish, portion it out into freezer bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems dry upon reheating.

Serving Suggestions

This skillet dish is hearty on its own, but if you want to elevate it, serve it over a bed of white rice or quinoa. The grains absorb the rich flavors and add an extra layer of texture. Alternatively, pair it with a side salad to balance the meal with some freshness and crunch.

For a full meal experience, consider topping with fresh herbs like chopped green onions or cilantro just before serving. A drizzle of hot sauce can also bring an extra kick of flavor, especially for those who appreciate a bit of spice in their dishes!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and will work well in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or beans for a vegetarian version.

→ What other spices can I use?

Feel free to experiment with spices like paprika, cumin, or red pepper flakes to add more depth to the flavor!