Quick & Easy Cabbage Recipes Healthy | Ground Beef & Chopped Cabbage Skillet

Posted on September 25, 2025

One-pan skillet with browned Minced Meat, tender cabbage, onions, and spices for a flavorful Beef Dinner. A hearty dish that fits both Cabbage Recipes Healthy and classic Ground Meat Recipes, perfect for quick weeknight meals or wholesome Beef Recipes For Dinner.

There’s something magical about recipes that are both comfort food and weeknight lifesavers. Enter: Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet. It’s hearty, flavorful, budget-friendly, and the kind of dish that makes you feel like you put in way more effort than you actually did.

Think of this as the culinary version of sweatpants: cozy, no-fuss, and always reliable. With juicy ground beef, tender cabbage, and a handful of pantry staples, this skillet meal comes together in just about 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, chilly evenings, or whenever you need a solid go-to dinner.

And honestly? This one deserves a permanent spot in your meal rotation.


Why This Skillet Hits All the Right Notes

So why exactly should this be your new favorite? Let’s break it down:

  • Budget-friendly magic. Ground beef and cabbage are two of the most affordable staples out there. You get maximum comfort for minimal cost.
  • Customizable. Want to keep it light? Add more veggies. Want it saucier? Add more broth. Craving spice? Chili flakes have your back.
  • Quick and simple. 30 minutes is all it takes. That’s faster than waiting for takeout.
  • Crowd-pleasing. From picky kids to hungry adults, everyone at the table finds something to love here.
  • Nutrition win. Cabbage is a powerhouse veggie—fiber-rich, full of vitamins, and perfect for sneaking in those greens without anyone complaining.

This is one of those Cabbage Recipes Healthy fans will absolutely want to bookmark.


Ingredients That Make It Shine

Here’s a quick look at what you’ll need and why it works so well:

  • Ground beef – The savory foundation. Choose lean for a lighter option or go with regular for a richer flavor. Either way, it’s a staple in classic Ground Meat Recipes.
  • Cabbage – The star of the show. Tender, slightly sweet, and perfect at soaking up all that beefy flavor.
  • Onion – Adds depth and a subtle sweetness that balances everything out.
  • Garlic – Bold, aromatic, and pretty much essential in any good Mince Recipes.
  • Tomato paste – For richness, depth, and just the right amount of umami.
  • Beef broth – Helps create a light sauce that ties the cabbage and beef together beautifully.
  • Seasonings – Salt, pepper, paprika, and maybe a little cumin or chili flakes if you want extra warmth.

How to Make It (Without Stressing Out)

  1. Brown the beef. Heat oil in a skillet, toss in your ground beef, and break it apart with a spoon until browned and cooked through. Drain extra fat if needed.
  2. Sauté aromatics. Add onion and cook until soft, then garlic for that fragrant punch.
  3. Boost with tomato paste. Stir it in for 1–2 minutes to caramelize slightly—this deepens the flavor big time.
  4. Add cabbage + broth. Toss in chopped cabbage, pour over the broth, and let everything mingle together. Simmer until the cabbage is tender, about 10–12 minutes.
  5. Season and serve. Taste, adjust, and dish it up while it’s hot and cozy.

That’s it—you’ve got yourself a full-flavored skillet meal that lands squarely in the category of Beef Recipes Easy and oh-so-satisfying.

One-pan skillet with browned Minced Meat, tender cabbage, onions, and spices for a flavorful Beef Dinner. A hearty dish that fits both Cabbage Recipes Healthy and classic Ground Meat Recipes, perfect for quick weeknight meals or wholesome Beef Recipes For Dinner.Pin

A Little Story Behind the Dish

Dishes like this are the definition of “back-pocket recipes.” They’ve been around forever because they just work. Cabbage and minced meat have been paired in countless kitchens across cultures—from Eastern European cabbage rolls to Asian stir-fries to simple farmhouse stews.

This skillet version is basically a modern, weeknight-friendly nod to all those comfort food classics. It delivers the same warmth and heartiness without hours in the kitchen. IMO, it’s a perfect example of why some old-school combos never go out of style.


Pro Tips for the Best Skillet Ever

  • Brown the beef properly. Don’t rush this step! Let the beef get a little caramelized for maximum flavor.
  • Cut the cabbage evenly. Thin, even slices ensure it cooks through without turning mushy.
  • Taste as you go. A little more paprika? A splash of hot sauce? Go with your gut—this dish is super forgiving.
  • Add texture. Toss in bell peppers, carrots, or even mushrooms if you want more bite.
  • Make it ahead. Like most Beef Recipes For Dinner, this one tastes even better the next day as the flavors mingle.

Variations to Try

Here’s where you can really make it your own:

  • Spicy twist: Add chili flakes, cayenne, or even diced jalapeños.
  • Cheesy upgrade: Stir in a little shredded cheddar or parmesan before serving.
  • Lighter option: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Perfect for those looking for lighter Beef Dinner alternatives.
  • Vegetarian version: Skip the beef and use lentils, tempeh, or a plant-based ground substitute.

How to Serve It

This dish stands beautifully on its own, but if you want to stretch it further or add variety, try:

  • Over fluffy rice or mashed potatoes (my personal fave).
  • With a warm slice of garlic bread to soak up that savory broth.
  • Paired with a crisp side salad for a little freshness.
  • Alongside roasted veggies for extra color and nutrition.

It’s one of those Cabbage Recipes that plays nice with just about anything.


Quick Tips for Storage and Leftovers

  • Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water to loosen it back up.
  • Freeze: Yes, it freezes well! Up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Pro move: Make a double batch. Future you will thank present you when dinner is already done.


FAQs

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead?
A: Totally. They’re lighter but still tasty. Just season a little more generously since they’re milder.

Q: How do I make it vegetarian?
A: Swap in lentils or crumbled tofu for the meat. You’ll still get that hearty vibe.

Q: Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
A: Yup, just grab a bigger skillet or pot. This one is a hit at potlucks!

Q: What seasonings can I experiment with?
A: Try cumin, smoked paprika, or even a pinch of cinnamon for a unique twist.

Q: Does this work for meal prep?
A: Absolutely. It’s one of those Recette Santé options that reheats like a dream.


One-pan skillet with browned Minced Meat, tender cabbage, onions, and spices for a flavorful Beef Dinner. A hearty dish that fits both Cabbage Recipes Healthy and classic Ground Meat Recipes, perfect for quick weeknight meals or wholesome Beef Recipes For Dinner.Pin

Final Bite

There you have it—Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Skillet: simple, cozy, and way more delicious than you’d expect for such a fuss-free dish. Whether you’re in need of Beef Recipes Easy, reliable Ground Meat Recipes, or just solid Cabbage Recipes Healthy, this one checks every box.

So the next time you’re staring into your fridge wondering what to cook, grab that head of cabbage and some minced meat. Trust me—this skillet is about to become your weeknight BFF.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
One-pan skillet with browned Minced Meat, tender cabbage, onions, and spices for a flavorful Beef Dinner. A hearty dish that fits both Cabbage Recipes Healthy and classic Ground Meat Recipes, perfect for quick weeknight meals or wholesome Beef Recipes For Dinner.

Quick & Easy Cabbage Recipes Healthy | Ground Beef & Chopped Cabbage Skillet

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course

Description

If you’re craving a cozy, no-fuss dinner, this skillet is about to become your new best friend. Juicy ground beef mingles with tender cabbage and a warm blend of spices for a meal that feels hearty but comes together in just one pan. Simple, flavorful, and totally weeknight-approved.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • ½ head green cabbage, thinly sliced
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional for added depth)
  • 1 cup beef broth (or water)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional for brightness)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)


Instructions

  1. Sauté the aromatics: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 2–3 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Brown the beef: Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned all over. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Season it up: Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so the spices coat the meat evenly.
  4. Add the cabbage and broth: Pile in the shredded cabbage, then pour in the beef broth. Mix everything together, making sure the cabbage gets tucked into the beef mixture.
  5. Let it simmer: Cover the skillet and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and lightly caramelized.
  6. Finish with flavor: Stir in soy sauce and apple cider vinegar if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Serve it up: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy your hearty one-pan dinner hot from the skillet.

Notes

  • Lighten it up: Use less ground beef and more cabbage for a veggie-forward version.
  • Boost flavor: Opt for beef broth instead of water for a richer taste.
  • Serving ideas: Delicious with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or a side of crusty bread to soak up the savory juices.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 520 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 12 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 23 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

Tags:

You might also like these recipes

Leave a Comment

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star