Description
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small head cabbage, chopped
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
½ cup beef broth
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil
Directions:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned, then drain excess fat if needed.
Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, beef broth, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes Kcal: 250 per serving Servings: 4 servings
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the best results. First, gather all ingredients. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Next, add the 1 lb of ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes, then drain any excess grease. Stir in the 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Now, add the entire chopped cabbage head, the can of diced tomatoes with juices, ½ cup beef broth, 1 tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp each of garlic powder and onion powder, and the optional ½ tsp red pepper flakes. Season generously with salt and black pepper. Stir everything thoroughly to combine. Cover the skillet, reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally. The dish is done when the cabbage is tender but still has a slight bite. Let it rest off the heat for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty cabbage and beef skillet is a complete meal on its own. For a low-carb option, serve it in a bowl with a dollop of sour cream and fresh parsley. To make it more substantial, spoon it over a bed of mashed potatoes, cauliflower rice, or buttered egg noodles. A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful juices. For a fresh contrast, pair it with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
How-to Summary
In summary: Sauté onion, then brown the beef. Add garlic, then all remaining ingredients (cabbage, tomatoes, broth, spices). Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until cabbage is tender. Rest and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat? Yes. Ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even plant-based crumbles work well. Adjust cooking time as needed and use corresponding broth.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.
Can I make this in a slow cooker? Absolutely. Brown the beef and onion first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Is it freezer-friendly? Yes. Cool completely and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
The cabbage is too crunchy/too soft. What happened? Cooking time varies based on cabbage type and chop size. Check at 15 minutes for tenderness. For more crunch, cook uncovered; for softer cabbage, extend simmer time covered.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcrowding the pan when browning the beef; cook in batches if necessary for proper browning. Do not skip draining the excess fat after browning, or the dish will be greasy. Ensure you chop the cabbage uniformly so it cooks evenly. Finally, do not forget to let the dish rest for a few minutes off the heat; this allows the flavors to meld perfectly.
Conclusion
This One-Skillet Cabbage and Beef dish is a testament to how simple, affordable ingredients can create a deeply satisfying and flavorful meal. It’s quick, nutritious, and endlessly adaptable to your pantry and preferences. With minimal cleanup and maximum taste, it’s sure to become a reliable weeknight favorite in your recipe rotation.
