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Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet

Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet

This easy Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal combining savory ground beef with tender cabbage and simple seasonings. Ready in under 30 minutes, it offers a comforting and nutritious dish perfect for weeknight dinners, featuring minimal prep and cleanup with customizable variations to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 4 cups shredded green cabbage
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ cup beef broth (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare your ingredients: Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic to release their aromas and ensure even cooking. Shred or thinly slice the cabbage so it softens quickly while retaining slight crunch.
  2. Brown the ground beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, and season with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat if needed to avoid greasiness.
  3. Sauté onion and garlic: Add chopped onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes, then add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant. This step builds foundational flavors.
  4. Cook the cabbage: Stir in the shredded cabbage and sprinkle with smoked paprika. Toss together and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage wilts but still has some texture.
  5. Add broth and simmer: If using, pour in the beef broth to deglaze the pan and add moisture. Lower the heat, cover loosely, and simmer for 5 minutes to meld flavors.

Notes

  • Use fresh, firm cabbage for the best texture and flavor.
  • Avoid overcrowding the pan to allow proper browning and prevent steaming.
  • Season gradually with salt, pepper, and paprika to deepen flavor layers.
  • Consider using a cast iron skillet for even heat and a nice beef sear.
  • Keep extra beef broth on hand to add moisture if the skillet dries out before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: cabbage ground beef skillet, one pan meal, quick dinner, easy beef recipe, low carb dinner, keto friendly, budget meal, comfort food