Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

If you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly, and flavor-packed dinner, you’re in the right place. Ground beef and cabbage is one of those timeless combos that hits every note—hearty, healthy, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a weeknight or meal prepping for the week, this is a go-to meal you’ll keep coming back to.

In this article, we’ll show you why this dish is such a crowd-pleaser, walk you through the easiest steps to make it, and share expert tips to take your flavors up a notch. Plus, you’ll get answers to common questions like: What seasoning is good for ground beef and cabbage? and How do you get cabbage to taste amazing?

Looking for inspiration? Try our Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers Recipe—it’s a crispy twist on this classic duo!

Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Cabbage Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 35 minutes with one pan.
• Flavor-Packed: Savory beef, tender cabbage, bold seasoning.
• Budget-Friendly: Simple ingredients that won’t break the bank.
• Healthy Comfort Food: High in protein, low in carbs.
• Totally Customizable: Spice it up or keep it classic—your call.

Discover great ideas like our Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe if you love traditional comfort food with a twist.

Recipe Snapshot

Ingredients for Ground Beef and Cabbage

Here’s what you’ll need to make this hearty one-pan meal:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 for flavor or lean if preferred)
• 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet) – optional but recommended
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup shredded carrots
• ½ bell pepper, thinly sliced
• ½ teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 2–3 tablespoons beef broth or stock
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar for brightness

Check out our How to Make and Cook Beef Sausage if you’re experimenting with different beef flavors at home.

How to Make This Ground Beef and Cabbage Recipe

This recipe is all about simplicity. You’ll only need one pan, basic tools, and about 35 minutes total. Let’s break it down into 5 easy steps.

Step 1: Heat the Pan and Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the ground beef.
Break it apart with a spatula and cook until fully browned (about 5–7 minutes). Drain excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Add Aromatics (Onion & Garlic)

Push the beef to one side of the pan. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the empty side. Toss in diced onions and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Cabbage

Now it’s time for the star of the show: cabbage. Stir it in with the beef and onion mixture.
Cook for 7–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens and starts to caramelize.

Step 4: Season It Right

Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Pour in the soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce and stir everything to coat evenly. Let it cook for another 2–3 minutes so the flavors really meld together.

Step 5: Taste, Adjust, and Serve

Give it a final taste. Add more salt, a dash of vinegar, or even a splash of beef broth if you want extra moisture.
Serve it hot straight from the pan or over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes if you’re feeling indulgent.

Discover great ideas like our How to Make Cabbage Patties for another simple cabbage creation.

Pro Tips for Perfect Ground Beef and Cabbage

• Add veggies like carrots or bell peppers for texture and color.
• Preheat the pan for better beef searing and flavor.
• Caramelize the cabbage—don’t rush it! Golden edges = more taste.
• Drain excess fat to avoid a greasy dish.
• Layer flavors by seasoning in steps and finishing with soy or Worcestershire.
• Always taste before serving—adjust salt, pepper, or add a splash of vinegar.

Flavor Variations

• Tex-Mex: Add cumin, chili powder, black beans, and cheese.
• Asian: Use soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and green onions.
• Italian: Mix in Italian seasoning, tomatoes, and Parmesan.
• Keto-Friendly: Skip sweet sauces, add cauliflower rice.
• Meatless: Use tofu or meatless crumbles with bold spices.

Looking for more twists? Don’t miss our Oven-Baked Cabbage Burgers Recipe.

Serving Suggestions

• Over Rice: Classic and filling—white, brown, or jasmine rice works great.
• With Noodles: Try egg noodles or ramen for a comforting twist.
• In Lettuce Wraps: A low-carb, fresh option that adds crunch.
• Topped with Eggs: Add a fried or poached egg for extra protein and richness.
• As a Side: Serve with mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or roasted veggies.

Craving more comforting cabbage meals? Try our Chicken Cabbage Soup Recipe.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Make-Ahead

You can fully cook this dish up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it even better the next day.

How to Store

Refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container for up to 4 days. It reheats well in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat.

Can You Freeze It?

Yes! Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer bags or containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove for best texture.

Meal Prep Idea

Portion it with cooked rice or cauliflower rice into meal prep containers for grab-and-go lunches all week.

FAQs About Ground Beef and Cabbage Recipe

Final Thoughts

Ground Beef and Cabbage is one of those simple dishes that hits all the right notes—affordable, easy, and packed with bold, comforting flavor. With just a few pantry staples and one skillet, you can create a meal that’s hearty enough for dinner and versatile enough for meal prep. Whether you like it spicy, savory, or with a twist, this dish is all about making everyday ingredients taste amazing.

Next time you need something quick but satisfying, this classic combo will never let you down.

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Ground Beef and Cabbage

A hearty and flavorful one-pan recipe made with seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, and bold spices. Quick, budget-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 330 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (80/20 or lean)
• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Optional Add-ins:

• ½ cup shredded carrots
• ½ bell pepper, sliced
• ½ teaspoon fresh grated ginger
• 2–3 tablespoons beef broth
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

Instructions

 

Heat the Pan and Brown the Ground Beef

• Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess grease.

Add Aromatics (Onion & Garlic)

• Push beef to the side. Add remaining olive oil and diced onions. Cook 2–3 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the Cabbage

• Stir chopped cabbage into the pan. Cook 7–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens and caramelizes.

Season It Right

• Sprinkle in salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add soy sauce or Worcestershire and stir to coat evenly. Cook another 2–3 minutes.

Taste, Adjust, and Serve

• Taste and adjust seasoning. Add more salt or a dash of vinegar or broth if needed. Serve hot as-is or over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.

Notes

• Use leaner beef if you want to reduce fat.
• For extra moisture, add beef broth or tomato sauce.
• Great for meal prep – lasts 4 days in fridge.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Keyword beef cabbage recipe, ground beef recipe, one pan meal