Cabbage and ground beef are a classic combination that comes together to create a hearty, budget-friendly, and flavorful meal. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or something you can make ahead for meal prep, this simple recipe checks all the boxes. It’s comforting, customizable, and packed with nutrition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One of the best things about this dish is its versatility. You can spice it up, keep it mild, make it low-carb, or even turn it vegetarian with just a few swaps. The tender cabbage soaks up the rich flavor of the ground beef, creating a savory skillet meal that’s both filling and satisfying.
Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, and with just a few tweaks, it fits low-carb and keto lifestyles, too.
Ingredient Breakdown
Each ingredient in this cabbage and ground beef recipe plays an important role in both flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need and why:
Cabbage
Cabbage is low in calories but high in fiber, vitamin C, and vitamin K. It adds bulk, a subtle sweetness, and a soft-yet-crisp texture when cooked. It’s the star of this dish — nourishing and delicious.
Ground Beef
A protein powerhouse. You can use lean ground beef (like 90/10) for a lighter option or go with 80/20 for more flavor and richness. Either way, browning it properly is key for deep, savory flavor.
Diced Tomatoes
Canned diced tomatoes bring acidity and moisture to the dish, balancing out the richness of the meat. They also help deglaze the pan, picking up all those tasty browned bits.
Onion & Garlic
These aromatics build the flavor base. Onions add natural sweetness, while garlic gives a rich, savory depth. Sautéing them properly before adding the other ingredients is essential for the best taste.
Bouillon Powder
This concentrated seasoning adds a punch of umami and replaces the need for broth. It enhances the flavor of both meat and vegetables quickly and easily.
Spices
- Cumin – Earthy and warm, it gives the dish a grounded, savory flavor.
- Cayenne Pepper – Adds a little kick. Use more or less depending on your heat preference.
- Smoked Paprika – Lends a deep, smoky note that elevates the whole dish without adding heat.
Salt
Season to taste. Start with a pinch and adjust as needed near the end to avoid over-salting, especially since the bouillon already adds some saltiness.
How to Make Cabbage and Ground Beef (Step-by-Step)
This one-pan meal comes together in about 30 minutes and is beginner-friendly. Here’s how to make it:
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Cook until browned, about 5–7 minutes. Don’t rush this step — browning brings out the best flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
- Push the beef to one side of the pan.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent (3–4 minutes).
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Spices
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices).
- Stir in bouillon powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and a bit of salt.
- Bring everything to a simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can meld.
Step 4: Stir in the Cabbage
- Add chopped cabbage to the skillet.
- Mix everything together, then cover and cook for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but not mushy.
Step 5: Final Seasoning
- Taste and adjust salt, spice, or seasonings as needed.
- If you like more heat, now’s the time to add a little extra cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes.
Tips and Variations
This recipe is super adaptable. Here are some ideas to customize it:
Add Heat
Like it spicy? Toss in some chili flakes, hot sauce, or diced jalapeños.
Make It Heartier
Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes to make it more filling. Just cook them with the onions to ensure they soften properly. Or serve the dish over cooked rice or mashed potatoes.
Keep It Low-Carb or Keto
Skip starchy add-ins and pair it with cauliflower rice or a side salad for a keto-friendly version.
Vegetarian Version
Substitute the beef with lentils, crumbled tofu, or plant-based ground “meat” for a vegetarian alternative that’s still satisfying.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is great on its own, but here are some tasty ways to enjoy it:
- As-Is: Serve straight from the skillet for a no-fuss, low-carb meal.
- With Rice: Spoon it over steamed rice or cauliflower rice.
- With Bread: Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the savory tomato juices.
- As a Casserole: Top with shredded cheese or mashed potatoes, then bake until bubbly.
Nutrition Benefits
This dish is more than just tasty — it’s packed with nutrients:
- Cabbage: Rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Great for digestion and low in calories.
- Ground Beef: A solid source of protein and iron. Using lean beef keeps it lighter.
- Tomatoes: Provide vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
Together, they make a satisfying, balanced, and healthy meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls to make sure your dish turns out perfectly:
- Overcooking the Beef: It’ll get tough and dry. Just cook until browned and no longer pink.
- Undercooking the Cabbage: You want it soft but not mushy. Stir and check frequently toward the end.
- Using Too Much Salt: Bouillon adds salt, so season slowly and taste before adding more.
- Crowding the Pan: Use a large enough skillet so everything cooks evenly.
Final Thoughts
Cabbage and ground beef is one of those humble meals that delivers big on flavor, comfort, and nutrition. It’s quick, affordable, and endlessly customizable — ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd.
Ready to try it for yourself? Follow the steps above, and enjoy a wholesome, delicious meal that everyone will love!
Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet
A hearty, comforting one-pan meal made with ground beef, tender cabbage, and savory seasonings. Ready in just 30 minutes — perfect for busy nights!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped (about 6–8 cups)
- 1/2 cup beef broth or water
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté aromatics:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. - Brown the beef:
Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess grease if needed. Season with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes. - Cook the cabbage:
Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to wilt. - Add liquids and simmer:
Pour in the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and oregano. Stir well to combine. Cover and simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender. - Finish and serve:
Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving, if desired.
Tips:
- Add cooked rice or noodles to stretch the meal.
- Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Add a can of diced tomatoes or bell peppers for more flavor and color.