Hearty, Savory, and Ready in 30 Minutes—All in One Pan

If you're after a budget-friendly, protein-packed, and veggie-loaded dinner, this Easy Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is your go-to. It’s a warm, rustic meal that comes together in a single pan with minimal ingredients—and maximum flavor. Think tender cabbage, seasoned beef, and simple pantry staples simmered into comfort food perfection.

Whether you're feeding a busy family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is hearty, healthy, and deliciously satisfying.

🌟 Why This Recipe Works

Here’s why you’ll want to keep this on regular dinner rotation:

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
Humble ingredients like ground beef, cabbage, and onion transform into something truly crave-worthy with the right seasoning.

One Skillet Magic
Everything cooks in the same pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Wholesome and Filling
Packed with protein and fiber, this is comfort food that keeps you full and energized—without the heaviness of pasta or cream sauces.

Budget-Friendly and Accessible
Great for stretching your grocery budget without sacrificing taste or nutrition.

Easy to Customize
Add rice, spice it up, or go low-carb—this recipe is flexible and forgiving.

🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need

Just a handful of everyday ingredients make this dish sing:

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef – A savory base full of flavor.

  • 1 small head green cabbage, chopped – The star veggie: tender, sweet, and hearty.

  • 1 medium onion, diced – Adds depth and mild sweetness.

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced – Boosts the overall flavor.

  • 1 tbsp tomato paste – For a subtle richness and umami kick.

  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained – Juicy and bright.

  • ½ tsp paprika – Adds warmth and color.

  • ½ tsp dried oregano – Lends a savory herbaceous note.

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – For a savory, tangy punch.

  • Crushed red pepper flakes – For a little heat.

  • Shredded cheese – Sprinkle on top for a melty finish.

💡 Pro Tip: Use 85–90% lean ground beef for great flavor without too much grease.

🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add diced onion to the beef and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Tomato Paste and Spices

Stir in the tomato paste, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the beef and onions in flavor.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Cabbage

Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices), then add the chopped cabbage. Stir to combine—don’t worry if the cabbage seems like a lot; it will cook down.

Step 5: Simmer

Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium. Let it simmer for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and everything is well combined.

Step 6: Taste and Finish

Remove the lid and cook uncovered for a few more minutes if you want to reduce the liquid. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

🔄 Recipe Variations to Try

Let this be your blank canvas for creative dinner twists:

  • Add Cooked Rice: Stir in 1–2 cups of cooked rice to make it even heartier.

  • Go Low-Carb: Skip the tomatoes and tomato paste for a lighter, keto-friendly version.

  • Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeño or cayenne pepper for heat.

  • Swap the Meat: Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork if preferred.

  • Cabbage Rolls in a Pan: Add a splash of vinegar and a pinch of sugar for that classic cabbage roll flavor profile.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

This skillet is a full meal on its own, but you can easily pair it with:

Sides

  • Mashed potatoes

  • Steamed white or brown rice

  • Crusty bread or garlic toast

Toppings

  • A dollop of sour cream

  • Fresh parsley or green onions

  • Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese

📦 Make Ahead + Storage Tips

Make Ahead

Chop your cabbage and onion in advance to cut down on prep time.

Storage

Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop.

Reheating

Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix?
Yes! Just make sure to reduce cooking time slightly, since it will soften faster.

Does this dish need broth or water?
Nope—the moisture from the tomatoes and cabbage is usually enough. Add a splash of water if it starts to dry out.

Is this gluten-free?
Yes! Just double-check any optional add-ins like Worcestershire sauce.

Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely—just use a large enough pan or Dutch oven to hold all the cabbage.

🥬 Final Thoughts

This Easy Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is the kind of rustic, wholesome meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. With minimal prep and cleanup, it’s perfect for busy nights, meal prep, or anytime you’re craving real food fast. Add your own twist, serve it with your favorite sides, and watch it disappear from plates!