Looking for a satisfying, fuss-free dinner that’ll fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and deliver comfort in every bite? This Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage skillet is the dependable recipe you’ll come back to again and again. With simple ingredients, a short cooking time, and all the savory, hearty flavors you crave, it’s the kind of dish that nourishes both the body and the soul. Whether you’re eating low-carb, need a family-friendly weeknight meal, or simply love homey classics, this is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need
The best meals start with simple, wholesome ingredients, and every element here earns its place. Think sweet-tender cabbage, rich beef, and just the right touch of spice. Each ingredient plays a special role in creating the irresistible flavor and texture profile of this Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage.
- Ground beef: Opt for 80% lean for juicy flavor, or go leaner if you prefer—it’s the dish’s hearty backbone.
- Green cabbage (about 6 cups), chopped: Cabbage softens into tender, juicy ribbons, soaking up all the savory juices.
- Onion, diced: Sweetens and rounds out the flavor, forming a solid aromatic base with the garlic.
- Garlic, minced: Infuses the skillet with a warm, savory fragrance that makes everything taste better.
- Olive oil: Keeps everything from sticking and adds a rich, Mediterranean touch.
- Soy sauce: Brings a salty, umami depth that makes the dish memorable.
- Paprika: Adds a pop of color and a gentle smokiness—don’t skip it!
- Salt: Essential for seasoning everything just right—taste as you go.
- Black pepper: Provides a mellow kick to balance the richness of the beef.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a subtle background heat, or a little more if you crave fire.
- Beef broth or water: Helps the cabbage cook down and makes a light, tasty sauce.
How to Make Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, toss in the diced onion and cook for about three minutes until it turns translucent and sweet-smelling. Stir in the minced garlic and let it sizzle another 30 seconds, just until fragrant—this creates a flavorful foundation for your Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef straight into the skillet. Break it apart with your spoon, spreading it out so it browns evenly. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, until the beef loses all its pink and gets those tasty golden-brown bits. If there’s a lot of excess grease, go ahead and drain it off.
Step 3: Add and Steam the Chopped Cabbage
Pile the chopped cabbage into the skillet—don’t worry if it seems like too much, it wilts beautifully! Pour in the beef broth or water, give everything a good stir, then pop on a lid and let the mixture steam for 8 to 10 minutes. The cabbage should become soft and tender, absorbing all those delicious pan flavors.
Step 4: Season to Perfection
Take off the lid and sprinkle over the soy sauce, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes, if you’re using them. Stir everything together and let it cook uncovered for another 2 to 3 minutes, so the flavors marry and the liquid mostly evaporates. Your Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage is ready when it’s bubbling, savory, and irresistibly aromatic!
How to Serve Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage

Garnishes
Brighten up your skillet with a finishing flourish—fresh chopped parsley adds color, a grating of Parmesan brings creamy saltiness, or a squeeze of lemon wakes up the flavors. You can even drizzle a little sriracha or scatter sesame seeds for a playful twist on your Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage.
Side Dishes
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but it pairs beautifully with simple sides. Try a bowl of fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a slice of crusty bread to sop up any remaining juices. For a lighter plate, a crisp green salad or roasted carrots keep things balanced and bright.
Creative Ways to Present
Get creative with presentation! Scoop your Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage into hollowed-out bell peppers for individual servings, or spoon it over baked potatoes for a satisfying twist. You can even pile leftovers into tortillas for quick, fusion-style wraps—weeknight dinner just got exciting!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with leftovers, transfer the cooled Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as they rest, making leftovers a delightful midday treat or dinner for tomorrow!
Freezing
You can freeze this dish for up to 3 months—just let it cool first, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. For the best texture, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, as cabbage can get a little soft with extended freezing, but the flavors only get richer.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for about 2 minutes, stirring halfway, to bring back all that comforting coziness.
FAQs
Can I substitute another meat for ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken is a wonderful, lighter alternative and works beautifully in this recipe. You’ll still get all the savory flavor and satisfying bite, but with a bit less richness.
Is this Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free brand of soy sauce. Always double-check your ingredients just to be safe if food sensitivities are a concern.
How can I add more veggies?
Feel free to toss in diced bell peppers, shredded carrots, snap peas, or even a handful of baby spinach during the cabbage step. They’ll add color, nutrition, and a subtle sweetness to the Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage.
What type Main Course
This recipe shines with classic green cabbage, but savoy or napa cabbage would be tasty variations. Just be mindful that some varieties cook down a bit faster, so keep an eye on texture.
Can I make Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage ahead of time?
Definitely! The dish actually tastes even better after a day in the fridge, letting flavors meld. Just reheat as needed and enjoy an even cozier skillet supper with zero stress.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about a simple skillet meal done right, and Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage is proof you don’t need fancy ingredients or loads of time to create something truly delicious. Try it for yourself, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new family favorite!
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Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A simple and flavorful recipe for Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage that’s perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. This dish combines tender ground beef with savory cabbage, onions, and a blend of spices for a hearty stovetop dinner.
Ingredients
Ground Beef:
- 1 lb ground beef
Chopped Cabbage:
- 1 small head green cabbage (about 6 cups), chopped
Onion Mixture:
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Seasonings:
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Liquid:
- ½ cup beef broth or water
Instructions
- Prepare Onion Mixture: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook diced onion until softened, about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess grease if needed.
- Add Cabbage: Stir in chopped cabbage. Pour in beef broth or water, cover, and cook for 8-10 minutes until cabbage is tender.
- Season and Finish: Uncover, add soy sauce, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes until liquid evaporates. Serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- For variation, add a splash of vinegar or a sprinkle of cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg