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Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe

4.7 from 96 reviews

A hearty and flavorful one-pan meal combining ground beef with tender, sautéed green cabbage, seasoned with aromatic spices and enhanced with optional soy sauce and apple cider vinegar for a tangy depth.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • ½ head of green cabbage, shredded
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional for extra flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a tangy kick)

Liquids

  • 1 cup beef broth (or water)

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil and soften onions: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent, developing a sweet base flavor.
  2. Add garlic and sauté: Incorporate the minced garlic into the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  3. Brown the ground beef: Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until fully browned, then drain any excess fat to keep the dish leaner.
  4. Season the beef: Stir in the ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper, mixing thoroughly so the spices evenly coat the meat for a warm and earthy flavor profile.
  5. Combine cabbage and broth: Add the shredded cabbage and pour in the beef broth, stirring carefully to mix all ingredients so the cabbage is evenly distributed throughout the skillet.
  6. Simmer covered: Cover the skillet and let the mixture cook for 8-10 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the cabbage softens and slightly caramelizes, melding flavors.
  7. Finish with optional flavor enhancers: Once the cabbage is tender, stir in soy sauce and apple cider vinegar if using, then taste and adjust seasoning to your preference.
  8. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness, then serve hot as a satisfying, savory one-pan meal.

Notes

  • For a leaner version, choose extra-lean ground beef.
  • Substitute beef broth with water or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.
  • Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Great served over rice, quinoa, or with crusty bread.

Keywords: ground beef cabbage skillet, easy beef cabbage recipe, stovetop ground beef and cabbage, one-pan dinner, quick low-fat meal