I cook this Cabbage and Ground Beef dish when I want a quick, savory, and satisfying meal that comes together effortlessly. It’s a hearty mix of browned beef, tender cabbage, and flavorful seasonings—all in one skillet dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or meal-prep lunches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how simple ingredients create a comforting, full-flavored dish that reheats beautifully. The natural sweetness of cabbage pairs so well with seasoned ground beef, and the one-pot cooking means no fuss and minimal cleanup. It’s exactly what I reach for when I want something nourishing and straightforward.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ground beef (85–90% lean)
Green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
Onion, chopped
Garlic, minced
Olive oil or butter
Tomato paste or diced tomatoes
Beef broth or water
Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Dried oregano or thyme (optional)
Paprika or chili powder (optional)
Optional garnish: chopped fresh parsley or green onions

directions

I heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. I add chopped onion and sauté until soft and slightly translucent.
I stir in minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—about 30 seconds.
I increase to medium-high, add ground beef, and break it up with a spatula. I season with salt, pepper, and any dried herbs or spices I’m using. I cook until browned and no longer pink.
I stir in tomato paste (or tomatoes) and cook for a minute to deepen the flavor.
I add sliced cabbage, stirring to combine with the beef mixture.
I pour in enough beef broth (or water) to just moisten the bottom of the pan and deglaze any browned bits. I drizzle Worcestershire or soy sauce over everything.
I cover the skillet, reduce heat to medium-low, and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring halfway, until the cabbage is tender and flavors meld.
I taste and adjust seasoning. If I want extra depth, I cook uncovered a couple more minutes to concentrate the sauce.
I finish by sprinkling chopped parsley or green onions if desired, then serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: Serves 4–6 as a main dish
Prep time: ~10 minutes
Cook time: ~20 minutes
Total time: ~30 minutes

Variations

Spicy twist: I sprinkle in a ¼ tsp chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
Cheesy finish: I top the dish with shredded cheddar or mozzarella right before serving for a melty boost.
Low-carb style: I skip tomato paste and add extra butter instead of broth for a richer, skillet “cabbage steak” vibe.
Veggie-packed: I toss in thinly sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or chopped mushrooms during the cabbage step for more flavor and color.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, I microwave or warm in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes—sometimes I add a splash of water or broth to refresh the moisture. It tastes even better the next day once flavors have melded.

FAQs

How do I choose the right cabbage?

I prefer green cabbage because it’s mild and holds its shape when cooked, but savoy or napa cabbage work too—they just cook more quickly, so I adjust the time.

Can I use ground turkey or pork instead of beef?

Yes—I often swap in ground turkey, pork, or even chicken—it’s still flavorful and pairs nicely with the cabbage and seasonings.

Should I drain excess grease from the beef?

If the beef releases a lot of fat, I drain most of it off before adding cabbage to avoid a greasy final dish.

How do I prevent the cabbage from getting mushy?

I cook it just until tender—not falling apart. Sautéing longer uncovered helps firm it up if it seems too soft.

Can I make this ahead for meal prep?

Absolutely—I portion it into containers and refrigerate. It reheats well and works great for lunches or easy dinners throughout the week.

Conclusion

I love how this Cabbage and Ground Beef dish brings together minimal ingredients for maximum comfort and flavor. It’s fast, flexible, and perfectly suited for busy nights or simple meal prep. I hope it becomes as reliable and satisfying in your kitchen as it is in mine!