Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is a simple yet flavorful one-pan dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With the comforting flavors of sautéed cabbage, seasoned ground beef, and aromatic spices, this dish is hearty, nutritious, and packed with deliciousness. The best part? It’s made with pantry-friendly ingredients and comes together in no time. Whether you’re looking for a low-carb dinner option or just an easy family meal, this recipe is a must-try.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 small cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup onions, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon bouillon powder (vegetable or beef)
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
How to Make Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Gather all your spices for easy access during cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Heat a large skillet or a deep sauté pan over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it apart with a spatula or wooden spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet, leaving about 1 tablespoon to retain flavor.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
- Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned beef.
- Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Step 4: Add Cabbage and Tomatoes
- Stir in the chopped cabbage, combining it with the beef mixture. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to soften.
- Add the canned diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the skillet and stir well.
Step 5: Season the Dish
- Sprinkle the bouillon powder, cumin, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt over the cabbage mixture.
- Stir thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
Step 6: Simmer
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Cook until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Taste the dish and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot as a standalone meal or pair it with rice, mashed potatoes, or a slice of crusty bread for a complete dinner.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate):
- Calories: 220
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 550mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FQs):
Q: Can I substitute the ground beef with another protein?
A: Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat can be used as substitutes.
Q: Is this recipe low-carb or keto-friendly?
A: Absolutely! This dish is naturally low in carbs, making it suitable for keto or low-carb diets.
Q: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: To make it vegetarian, replace the ground beef with crumbled tofu, tempeh, or a plant-based ground meat substitute. Use vegetable bouillon powder for seasoning.
Q: How spicy is this dish?
A: The cayenne pepper adds a mild kick. You can omit it for a milder flavor or increase the quantity if you love spice.
Tips for Success:
- Cabbage Cutting: Chop the cabbage into smaller pieces for faster cooking and easier blending with the other ingredients.
- Don’t Skip the Bouillon Powder: This adds a depth of flavor to the dish. If you don’t have bouillon powder, use a bouillon cube dissolved in a bit of water.
- Enhance the Flavor: For an extra burst of flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce during cooking.
- Add Vegetables: You can throw in additional vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for more variety and nutrition.
- Cooking Equipment: Use a large skillet or sauté pan to prevent overcrowding, which ensures even cooking.
Storage Tips:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
- Freezer: This dish freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion:
Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is a versatile, wholesome, and budget-friendly dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. The combination of tender cabbage, seasoned beef, and aromatic spices creates a comforting meal that will satisfy the whole family. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Try this hearty and delicious skillet today and enjoy the flavors of home-cooked goodness!