There are days when I just want something warm, hearty, and no-fuss—and this ground beef and cabbage skillet hits the spot every single time.

It reminds me of the rustic meals my grandmother used to make, full of flavor and comfort.

With simple ingredients and a one-pan approach, this dish brings dinner to the table quickly without skimping on taste. Every spoonful is a cozy, savory hug.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

One-pan wonder – Less cleanup, more joy

Hearty and satisfying – Perfect for chilly evenings

Naturally gluten-free and low-carb

Budget-friendly ingredients you probably already have

Big flavor with minimal effort

Versatile enough for meal prep or a quick dinner

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Ground beef – Adds rich, meaty depth

Green cabbage – Softens beautifully and soaks up flavor

Diced tomatoes – Bring acidity and a touch of sweetness

Onions & garlic – Build that classic savory base

Bouillon powder – Concentrated umami kick

Smoked paprika & cumin – For a smoky-spiced undertone

Cayenne pepper – Optional heat for spice lovers

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease in the pan.

Slice cabbage into even, bite-sized pieces so it cooks uniformly.

Adjust cayenne to taste or omit it for a milder dish.

Don’t rush the simmering time—it helps meld all the flavors.

Leftovers taste even better the next day!

How to Make Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned.

Break it apart as it cooks, about 5–7 minutes.

Step 2: Add Onion and Garlic

Push the beef to one side and add chopped onions to the empty space.

Sauté until softened, then stir in the minced garlic. Cook until fragrant.

Step 3: Mix in Tomatoes and Seasonings

Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices.

Stir in the bouillon powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne (if using), and a generous pinch of salt.

Simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 4: Cook the Cabbage

Add chopped cabbage to the pan.

Stir well to combine, then cover and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with rice, mashed potatoes, crusty bread—or just as it is.

Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.

What to Serve It With

Steamed white or brown rice

Roasted or mashed potatoes

Warm crusty bread or flatbread

A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt

A crisp green salad for contrast

Variations / Substitutions

Swap ground beef with ground turkey or chicken

Use red cabbage for a colorful twist

Add cooked rice or lentils directly to the skillet

Include shredded carrots or bell peppers for extra veggies

Top with shredded cheese for a comforting finish

Storage & Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Freeze for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this with pre-shredded cabbage?
Yes! Bagged coleslaw mix works in a pinch and saves time.

What can I use instead of bouillon powder?
Use ½ cup of beef broth and reduce the salt slightly.

Is this dish spicy?
Only mildly, thanks to cayenne. Omit it if you prefer no heat.

Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely. Carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms would be great additions.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, swap the ground beef for lentils or plant-based crumbles.

How do I keep the cabbage from getting soggy?
Cook it just until tender and don’t over-stir once it’s added.

Does it taste good the next day?
Even better! The flavors deepen and meld overnight.

Final Thoughts

This ground beef and cabbage skillet is the kind of recipe I turn to when I need comfort food without the extra work.

It’s deeply flavorful, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable.

If you’re craving a hearty one-pan dinner that feeds the soul, this dish deserves a spot in your weekly rotation.

The Boat Shed Kitchen