Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dish: Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet! This meal holds a special place in my heart because it’s not just incredibly delicious but also reminds me of cozy family dinners growing up. My mom would whip this up on busy nights, and the smell of sautéing onions and garlic would fill the house, drawing us all to the kitchen like moths to a flame. There’s something so comforting about a one-pan meal that warms both the stomach and the soul!
What I love most about this dish, aside from its deliciousness, is its simplicity. It’s like a warm hug after a long day! Plus, it’s super versatile. You can toss in whatever leftover veggies you have, and it still tastes incredible! So, if you’re looking for a go-to meal that’s both easy and satisfying, you’ve definitely come to the right place.
What’s in Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet?
Let’s break down the ingredients that make this dish a winner:
Ground Beef: This is the star of the show! I often use lean ground beef to keep it a bit lighter, but whatever you have on hand will work just fine.
Cabbage: Chopped cabbage adds great texture and a slightly sweet flavor to this dish. Not to mention, it’s packed with vitamins!
Canned Diced Tomatoes: I prefer using fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor. They add a nice juiciness that brings the dish together beautifully.
Onion and Bell Pepper: These aromatic veggies give the skillet a solid flavor foundation. I typically go for a large yellow onion and a red bell pepper for some color, but feel free to mix it up!
Garlic: Because garlic makes everything better! Trust me; you’ll want the aroma of garlic wafting through your kitchen.
Spices (Smoked Paprika, Salt, Black Pepper, Cumin): These spices not only enhance the dish but also give it that extra zing. The smoked paprika is essential for that rustic, smoky flavor. If I’m feeling adventurous, I throw in some cumin too for an earthy touch.
Olive Oil: Just a bit to sauté everything and prevent sticking. Always a good call!
Beef Broth: This adds moisture and richness, ensuring that the dish has plenty of flavor. If you’re short on beef broth, water works too—no biggie!
Fresh Parsley: This is optional, but I love finishing the dish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
Is Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Good for You?
Absolutely! This dish is not only hearty but also contains several health benefits:
Ground Beef: A great source of protein and essential vitamins like B12. Just be mindful of the fat content, and opt for leaner cuts if calorie count is a concern.
Cabbage: This humble veggie is low in calories and high in nutrients! Packed with fiber and vitamin C, it’ll keep your digestion happy and your immune system strong.
Diced Tomatoes: They add a good dose of antioxidants, especially lycopene, which is great for heart health.
However, if you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium broth and tomatoes, since some canned products can be a bit salty. The beauty of this recipe is that you can always adjust seasoning to your taste!
The Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you need to make this lovely dish (serves about 4 people):
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
– 1 large onion, diced
– 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 tsp cumin (optional)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup beef broth (or water)
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet?
Ready to dive in? Here are the simple steps to create this comforting dish:
1. In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they soften up beautifully.
2. Add the minced garlic and let it sizzle for an additional 1-2 minutes; the smell is divine!
3. Turn up the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and no longer pink—this should take about 5-7 minutes.
4. Drain any excess fat from the skillet if necessary (gotta keep it healthier!).
5. Stir in the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cumin (if you’re using it).
6. Bring everything to a simmer and cover the pot. Cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and all those lovely flavors meld together. You can adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy!
Serving Suggestions to Make It Shine
Just like a good friend, I’ve got your back with a few tips and variations! You can serve this skillet dish alongside fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even some crusty bread to soak up those appetizing juices. Plus, if you want it spicier, feel free to throw in some chili flakes or diced jalapeños!
You can also add some shredded carrots or zucchini for extra veggies.
This dish is so forgiving, it’s practically an artist!
I can’t wait for you to try this Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet! It’s a recipe I keep coming back to on busy nights and rainy days alike. When you make it, please share your experience—I’d love to hear what variations you tried or how your family enjoyed it. Happy cooking!
