Beef Cabbage Skillet Dinner (Printable)

Savory ground beef and tender cabbage come together in one skillet for a speedy, hearty meal.

# Components:

→ Meats

01 - 1 pound lean ground beef

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 medium carrot, peeled and shredded
05 - 1 small green cabbage (approximately 1.5 pounds), cored and thinly sliced

→ Canned Goods

06 - 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained

→ Spices and Seasonings

07 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
08 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
09 - 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
10 - 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
11 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

→ Oils and Condiments

12 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Garnish

13 - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, optional

# Method:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until thoroughly browned and cooked through, approximately 5 minutes. Adequately drain any excess fat.
02 - Incorporate the diced onion and shredded carrot into the skillet. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
03 - Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Add the thinly sliced cabbage, drained diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if utilizing), salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir comprehensively to integrate all components.
05 - Cover the skillet and allow to cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring periodically, until the cabbage achieves a tender yet firm consistency.
06 - Remove the lid and assess the seasoning, adjusting as necessary. Continue to cook uncovered for an additional 2 minutes to reduce any excess liquid and enhance flavor concentration.
07 - If desired, garnish the skillet with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses simple, affordable ingredients you likely have on hand
  • Perfect low carb and gluten free option that doesn't sacrifice flavor
  • Easily customizable to your family's preferences
02 -
  • Perfect weeknight solution that comes together in just 30 minutes
  • Excellent make ahead meal that tastes even better the next day
  • Naturally low carb and gluten free making it suitable for many dietary needs
  • Great way to incorporate more vegetables into your family meals
03 -
  • The key to this dish is properly slicing the cabbage thin enough to cook quickly but not so thin it disappears into the mixture. Aim for slices about 1/4 inch thick for ideal texture.
  • When browning the beef resist the urge to stir constantly allowing it to develop caramelization that creates deep flavor.
  • Lastly if your family enjoys more robust seasoning consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of dijon mustard to the mixture for additional complexity without overwhelming the natural flavors of the ingredients.