This dish is a tasty mix of cabbage and ground beef, cooked together to create a warm, hearty meal. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner and so easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is the star here, providing crunch and nutrition. You can swap in savoy cabbage for a more tender texture or even kale if you want a different twist.
Ground Beef: While I love using ground beef for its richness, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Even plant-based ground meat works well if you’re looking for a vegetarian choice!
Onions and Garlic: Diced onion and minced garlic are essential for flavor. If you’re in a pinch, onion powder and garlic powder can be used instead—but fresh is always best!
Diced Tomatoes: If you prefer freshness, you can use fresh tomatoes—just chop them finely! Canned tomatoes are a great timesaver, but opt for low-sodium varieties if you’re watching your salt.
How Do I Get the Cabbage Just Right?
Cooking cabbage can be tricky, but I find it brings out the best flavors when done properly! The key is cooking it at a moderate heat so it softens without burning.
- After adding the chopped cabbage, be sure to cover your skillet. This helps steam the cabbage, making it tender faster.
- Don’t forget to stir occasionally. This ensures even cooking and prevents any bits from sticking to the bottom.
- Test for doneness by tasting a piece. It should be tender but still have a slight crunch—this adds great texture!
How to Make Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and about 20 minutes cooking everything together, making this a quick and delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is softened and becoming translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, or until it smells amazing!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break it up and cook it for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through. If there’s any excess fat, drain it off so your dish doesn’t get too greasy.
3. Mix in the Vegetables:
Now it’s time to stir in the chopped cabbage. Then, add the diced tomatoes (juice included), tomato paste, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and some salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir to make sure it’s all combined nicely!
4. Cook Until Tender:
Cover the skillet with a lid and let the mixture cook on medium heat for about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally. You want the cabbage to become tender and flavorful.
5. Final Touches:
Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, taste the dish and adjust any seasonings if necessary. Maybe it needs a bit more salt or pepper—feel free to make it your own!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to serve! Plate your delicious Cabbage and Ground Beef skillet hot and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Substitute Ground Beef with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, especially with plant-based substitutes, which might cook up quicker.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Canned Tomatoes?
No worries! You can use either fresh tomatoes, just chop about 2-3 medium tomatoes and add them along with a little extra liquid (like broth or water) for moisture. Alternatively, adding tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes will work equally well!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover Cabbage and Ground Beef skillet in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove or microwave until warmed through. This dish also freezes well—just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container!
Can I Add More Vegetables to This Recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. Just chop them to a similar size as the cabbage and add them in with the cabbage to ensure they cook evenly. You might need to add a little more cooking time to ensure everything is tender.
