Name: Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef (85/15 recommended); 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 medium carrot, shredded; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 small head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups); 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

When I need a hearty, quick, and satisfying meal that comes together in one pan, this Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner is one of my go-to recipes. It’s simple comfort food that doesn’t require fancy ingredients, just a few humble staples—ground beef, cabbage, and a few seasonings—and yet it delivers bold, savory flavor in every bite.

I love how this dish checks so many boxes: it’s budget-friendly, low-carb, super filling, and doesn’t leave behind a pile of dishes. Whether I’m cooking for my family on a busy weeknight or just meal prepping for a few days ahead, this skillet always hits the spot. It’s endlessly adaptable, and once you make it, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner

Quick and easy: One skillet and 30 minutes is all you need.
Affordable ingredients: Cabbage and ground beef are both cost-effective and readily available.
Low-carb and keto-friendly: Great for those watching their carbs without sacrificing flavor.
Customizable: You can switch up the seasoning or add different veggies.
Family-approved: Even picky eaters love the comforting flavor and texture.

What Kind of Cabbage Should I Use?

For this recipe, I stick with green cabbage—it’s tender enough to soften quickly in a skillet, yet still has enough body to hold up to the hearty ground beef. The slight sweetness of green cabbage balances beautifully with the savory, seasoned meat. If you prefer a deeper flavor, savoy cabbage is a great alternative, offering a more delicate texture and ruffled leaves. I wouldn’t recommend red cabbage here as it tends to bleed color and is tougher when cooked in a quick skillet meal like this.

Options for Substitutions

One of my favorite things about this dish is how forgiving it is. You can easily adjust based on what’s in your fridge or pantry:

Ground turkey or chicken – A leaner option that still brings plenty of flavor.
Vegetarian version – Swap meat for crumbled tofu, lentils, or a meatless ground alternative.
Add extra veggies – Bell peppers, mushrooms, shredded carrots, or zucchini all blend in beautifully.
Spice it up – Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a spoon of chili paste for heat.
Soy sauce or Worcestershire – Add a splash if you want a more umami-rich flavor.

This recipe is a base you can build on, and the possibilities are endless.

Ingredients for This Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner

Ground beef
The star of the dish—rich, savory, and protein-packed. I usually go for 85/15 for the best flavor without being too greasy.
Green cabbage
Adds volume, texture, and natural sweetness that balances the beef. It wilts beautifully and soaks up all the seasonings.
Onion
A must-have for depth and aromatic flavor. Sautéed onions are the flavorful base of the skillet.
Garlic
Brings warmth and intensity to the dish. I never skip it.
Carrots
They add subtle sweetness, a pop of color, and extra nutrition.
Tomato paste
For a touch of richness and tang—it enhances the overall flavor and helps create a light sauce.
Paprika
Smoky and slightly sweet, it gives the dish depth and a beautiful color.
Salt & pepper
Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
Olive oil
Used to sauté the veggies and beef, adding a subtle richness to the dish.
Fresh parsley (optional)
For garnish—it adds a burst of color and freshness right before serving.

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by chopping the green cabbage into bite-sized strips, dicing the onion, mincing the garlic, and peeling and shredding the carrot. Have everything ready to go—this dish comes together fast.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, add a drizzle of olive oil and cook the ground beef until it’s browned and no longer pink. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Once done, drain any excess fat if needed.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Push the beef to one side of the skillet and add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened, then stir everything together.

Step 4: Add the Carrots and Tomato Paste

Mix in the shredded carrots and tomato paste. Stir well so the paste coats the meat and vegetables evenly, letting it cook for another 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

Step 5: Stir in the Cabbage

Add the chopped cabbage a handful at a time, stirring between additions to help it cook down. Once all the cabbage is in, season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 6: Simmer Until Tender

Cover the skillet with a lid and let the mixture simmer for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and everything is well combined.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a bright, fresh finish. Serve hot!

How Long to Cook the Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner

The total cooking time for this dish is about 25 to 30 minutes:

Browning the beef takes around 6–8 minutes.
Sautéing the onions, garlic, and carrots adds another 5 minutes.
Cooking the cabbage until tender takes about 10–12 minutes, depending on how soft you like it.

Since it’s all done in one skillet, everything moves quickly once you start cooking—so having your ingredients prepped ahead makes the process seamless.

Tips for Perfect Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner

Use a large skillet – A big pan gives the cabbage room to cook down evenly without steaming too much.
Don’t skip the tomato paste – It adds that savory, slightly tangy backbone that pulls all the flavors together.
Cook the cabbage in batches if needed – If your pan isn’t big enough, sauté half first, then add the rest as it wilts.
Let it sit uncovered at the end – A few minutes with the lid off helps any excess liquid evaporate and concentrates the flavor.
Taste and adjust seasoning – Cabbage can soak up seasoning, so add a little extra salt or spice if needed before serving.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcrowding the skillet: If the cabbage is piled too high, it will steam instead of sauté. Cook it in batches if necessary to avoid sogginess.
Skipping the draining step: If your ground beef releases a lot of fat, be sure to drain it before adding other ingredients—otherwise the dish can turn greasy.
Undercooking the cabbage: You want the cabbage to be tender but not mushy. Make sure it has enough time to soften and soak up the flavors.
Forgetting to stir: Cabbage can stick to the bottom if left alone too long. Stir every few minutes to ensure even cooking.
Not seasoning enough: Cabbage needs a good amount of seasoning to shine. Taste and adjust toward the end.

What to Serve With Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner?

Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting side that pairs perfectly with the savory beef and cabbage mix.

Cauliflower Rice

For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice soaks up all the delicious juices without adding starch.

Crusty Bread

A slice of warm, crusty bread is ideal for scooping up any bits left in the skillet.

Fried or Poached Egg

Top your serving with a runny egg for extra richness and protein.

Simple Green Salad

A crisp salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds freshness and contrast.

Pickles or Sauerkraut

The tangy bite of pickled veggies complements the richness of the dish beautifully.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Sweet and savory come together when you pair this skillet with caramelized sweet potatoes.

Steamed Rice

White or brown rice works as a neutral base that absorbs all the skillet flavors.

Storage Instructions

This skillet dinner stores wonderfully, making it a smart choice for meal prep or leftovers.

Refrigerator: Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer: You can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
To reheat: Warm it in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each, until heated through.

Pro tip: The flavors actually deepen after a day, so don’t be surprised if the leftovers taste even better!

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

Calories: 320
Protein: 22g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Carbohydrates: 14g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 7g
Cholesterol: 65mg
Sodium: 480mg

Keep in mind these numbers are approximate and can vary depending on the type of beef or how much salt you add. If you’re tracking macros closely, it’s a good idea to plug your exact ingredients into a nutrition calculator.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce while sautéing the beef. You can also stir in a spoonful of chili paste with the tomato paste.

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix?

Yes, pre-shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix works great for saving time—just be sure it doesn’t have added dressing or seasoning.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Absolutely. It’s naturally low in carbs and high in fat and protein, making it a great fit for keto or low-carb diets.

What other spices can I use?

Try cumin for earthiness, oregano for a Mediterranean touch, or smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! It holds up well for a few days in the fridge. In fact, the flavors deepen and get even better after sitting overnight.

Can I add cheese?

You bet. A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top during the last few minutes of cooking adds a creamy, melty finish.

How do I keep the cabbage from getting soggy?

Don’t overcook it and make sure your skillet isn’t overcrowded. Cooking uncovered toward the end also helps reduce excess moisture.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you’re using gluten-free tomato paste and spices. Just double-check labels if you’re sensitive.

Conclusion

This Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner is everything I want in a weeknight meal—fast, flavorful, affordable, and fuss-free. It’s one of those recipes that surprises people with how delicious something so simple can be. Whether you’re after a low-carb option, a meal-prep favorite, or a hearty dinner the whole family will eat without complaint, this skillet delivers every time.

It’s become a staple in my kitchen, and I hope it earns a regular spot in yours too.