Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Recipe
A hearty and flavorful one-pan meal combining savory ground beef with tender, slightly caramelized cabbage and aromatic spices. This simple skillet dish is perfect for a quick, nutritious dinner with warm cumin and paprika notes, enhanced optionally by soy sauce and apple cider vinegar for an extra depth of flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- ½ head of green cabbage (shredded)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 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 cup beef broth (or water)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a tangy kick)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Heat the oil and soften onions: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent, creating a flavorful base.
- Sauté garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring to avoid burning.
- Cook ground beef: Add 1 lb ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked through, draining excess fat if needed to keep the dish lean.
- Season the meat: Stir in 1 teaspoon ground cumin, ½ teaspoon paprika, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Mix well to evenly coat the meat with warm spices.
- Add cabbage and broth: Incorporate the shredded half head of green cabbage and pour in 1 cup beef broth. Stir everything together so the cabbage mixes thoroughly with the beef and spices.
- Simmer covered: Cover the skillet and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the cabbage to soften and develop a slight caramelized flavor.
- Finish with flavor boosters: Remove the lid and stir in 1 tablespoon soy sauce and 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, if using, for extra umami and tang. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot, enjoying a filling and flavorful meal from a single pan.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- If avoiding soy, skip the soy sauce or use a gluten-free tamari for a similar taste.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; start with less salt if using salted broth.
- The apple cider vinegar adds brightness but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
- Serve with cauliflower rice or steamed vegetables for a low-carb meal.
Keywords: ground beef, cabbage, one-pan meal, skillet, quick dinner, easy recipe, savory, cumin, paprika
