Hamburger Meat And Cabbage Skillet

Name: Hamburger Meat And Cabbage Skillet
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1/2 head of green cabbage, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup beef broth (optional)

Highlighted under: Smart Quick Meals Collection

I love how easy it is to whip up this Hamburger Meat and Cabbage Skillet on a busy weeknight! With just a few simple ingredients, I can create a hearty and satisfying meal that brings everyone to the table. The best part? It's a one-pan dish, which means clean-up is a breeze. Whether I'm feeding my family or hosting friends for a casual dinner, this recipe never disappoints. Let's dive in and enjoy a dish that's not only delicious but also incredibly comforting!

Created by

Juliet Ashford

Last updated on 2026-02-23T22:56:48.507Z

As I was experimenting in the kitchen, I stumbled upon the idea of combining ground beef with cabbage, and it was a hit! The savory meat pairs wonderfully with the slightly sweet cabbage, creating a dish that is both nutritious and filling. I love adding spices to elevate the flavors, and it’s amazing how just a pinch of paprika can make such a difference.

One particular trick I've found helpful is allowing the cabbage to caramelize slightly before adding the beef. This adds depth to the dish, enhancing the overall flavor profile. It’s quick, simple, and undeniably satisfying!

Reasons to Love This Recipe
Quick to prepare and cook, perfect for busy nights
Nutritious and hearty with a great balance of protein and vegetables
Budget-friendly and satisfying for the whole family

Cooking Technique Tips

A crucial step in this Hamburger Meat and Cabbage Skillet is the way you cook the ground beef. Start by heating the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering, which usually takes about 1-2 minutes. This temperature helps to achieve a nice sear on the beef. Make sure to break up the beef as it cooks using a spatula, ensuring even browning and preventing any large clumps. The meat should be cooked through and browned, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes.

When adding the cabbage, make sure to chop it into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. If you prefer a softer texture, you can finely shred the cabbage. The cooking process should allow the cabbage to become tender without losing all its crunch, which takes around 5-7 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it wilts; you want it to soften but not become mushy.

Ingredient Roles and Substitutions

Ground beef is not only the main protein in this dish, but it also provides rich flavor and satisfying texture. For a leaner option, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken, but be aware that the flavors may be milder. If using a leaner meat, consider adding a little extra olive oil to enhance the richness of the dish. Alternatively, for a vegetarian version, swap the meat with lentils or a meat alternative like tempeh.

The use of beef broth is optional but recommended for added depth of flavor. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, low-sodium vegetable broth works well. Alternatively, you can use water with a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to mimic the umami taste of broth. Feel free to experiment with other spices as well, such as cumin or chili powder, to customize the flavor profile according to your taste.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Hamburger Meat and Cabbage Skillet is excellent for meal prep. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to prevent the dish from drying out. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label it clearly and ensure to cool it completely before freezing for the best texture when reheated.

For serving, I love to pair this dish with crusty bread or a side salad to round out the meal. You can also add toppings such as shredded cheese, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch of flavor. If you're hosting friends, consider making it the centerpiece of a casual buffet-style dinner, allowing guests to help themselves and tailor their bowls with the toppings they enjoy.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your Hamburger Meat and Cabbage Skillet:

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1/2 head of green cabbage, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup beef broth (optional)

With your ingredients ready, let's move on to the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your skillet meal:

Cook the Ground Beef

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent. Stir in the garlic, and then add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked through.

Add the Cabbage

Once the beef is cooked, add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together, allowing the cabbage to wilt and soften.

Simmer

If using, pour in the beef broth to provide some moisture and flavor. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve and Enjoy

Once the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld together, serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your hearty dish!

Now you have a delicious and satisfying meal ready to serve!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try incorporating some diced bell peppers or a splash of soy sauce. This dish also pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.

Making It Your Own

Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can easily add other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or even broccoli for additional nutrients and flavor. Adding these vegetables will require slight adjustments in cooking time; for instance, thicker veggies like carrots may need a few minutes longer to soften. Just make sure to cut everything similar in size to ensure even cooking.

If you're trying to sneak in more veggies, consider using cauliflower rice instead of ground beef, which can turn this meal into a healthy, low-carb option. This version will cook faster, so simply sauté the cauliflower rice for about 3-5 minutes after adding the cabbage to ensure it’s tender yet still has a bit of bite.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your cabbage isn’t wilting properly, it could be due to the heat being too low. Increase the heat to medium-high and make sure to stir frequently, allowing the steam to soften the cabbage effectively. Alternatively, you can add a splash of water to the pan, which will generate some steam to help it cook through.

Another potential issue can be the dish becoming too greasy if using higher-fat ground beef. If this happens, after browning the meat, consider draining off some of the fat before adding the onions and garlic. This small step can significantly help create a balanced dish without excess grease.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're looking to feed a crowd, scaling this recipe is straightforward. Simply multiply the ingredients proportionately, keeping the same cooking techniques. However, when cooking larger batches, ensure your skillet is big enough to accommodate everything without overcrowding. You may need to cook in batches for the best results.

When scaling up, keep in mind that the cooking time might need to be adjusted slightly. You may need an extra minute or two for the cabbage to cook down properly. Just keep an eye on it and adjust the seasoning as you go to maintain the flavor balance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken would work well as a healthier alternative.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it stores well in the fridge for up to three days and can be easily reheated.

→ How can I make it spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for an extra kick!

→ What can I serve this with?

It's great on its own or served with rice, noodles, or crusty bread.