Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet (Easy, One-Pan Meal)
Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage is a simple, comforting, and nutritious one-pan meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. This dish combines savory ground beef with tender cabbage, seasoned with garlic, onions, and a hint of soy sauce or spices for a hearty and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or a low-carb alternative to traditional stir-fries.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
✔️ Healthy and low-carb
✔️ Budget-friendly and versatile
✔️ Perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights
✔️ Naturally gluten-free if you skip soy sauce or use tamari
Ingredients (Serves 4)
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1 lb (450 g) ground beef
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1 small head of cabbage, chopped (about 4 cups)
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1 medium onion, diced
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2–3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
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2–3 tablespoons soy sauce or coconut aminos
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1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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Salt, to taste
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Optional: red pepper flakes for heat, chopped green onions for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Ground Beef
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Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
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Drain excess fat if necessary.
2. Sauté Aromatics
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Add olive oil or butter to the skillet.
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Stir in diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
3. Add the Cabbage
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Add chopped cabbage to the skillet.
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Stir well to combine with the beef and onions.
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Cover and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender but slightly crisp.
4. Season the Dish
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Add soy sauce or coconut aminos, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt to taste.
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Stir thoroughly to coat the cabbage and beef with the seasonings.
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Cook for another 2–3 minutes to let the flavors meld.
5. Serve
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Garnish with chopped green onions or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
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Serve hot as-is for a low-carb meal, or pair with rice, quinoa, or mashed potatoes.
Tips for Perfect Ground Beef and Cabbage
✔️ Chop cabbage finely for faster cooking.
✔️ Do not overcook—cabbage should remain slightly crisp for texture.
✔️ Optional add-ins: shredded carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
✔️ Flavor boost: add 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of vinegar for tanginess.
Variations
Asian-Inspired
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Add ginger, sesame oil, and a splash of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce.
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Top with sesame seeds for garnish.
Spicy Version
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Add red pepper flakes, sriracha, or hot sauce to taste.
Low-Carb / Keto
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Serve as-is or with cauliflower rice for a complete low-carb meal.
Storage & Reheating
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
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Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet is a simple, nutritious, and satisfying meal that can be made in under 30 minutes. It’s versatile, budget-friendly, and perfect for families or meal prepping for the week. The combination of savory beef and tender cabbage creates a comforting dish that can be customized with your favorite flavors and seasonings.