Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet

Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is a hearty, one-pan meal that combines savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and flavorful seasonings for a satisfying dish. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or anyone looking for a nutritious meal that doesn’t require a lot of time or ingredients. With a balance of vegetables and protein, this skillet dish is both filling and flavorful.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to slightly wilt.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
5. Cover the skillet and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and cooked through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for some heat.
• Add Vegetables: You can add other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to the skillet for more flavor and nutrition.
• Cheesy: Sprinkle shredded cheese (like cheddar or mozzarella) over the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt over the dish.
• Substitute Meat: If you prefer, you can swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use other meats instead of ground beef?
   Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. You can also use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian version.
2. What can I serve with this dish?
   This dish is great on its own, but you can serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for a more filling meal.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge. It reheats well, making it a great meal prep option.
4. How can I make this dish more flavorful?
   You can add more spices such as cumin, garlic powder, or onion powder for added flavor. Adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce also enhances the umami taste.
5. Is this dish gluten-free?
   Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free, as it doesn’t contain any gluten-containing ingredients.
6. Can I add more vegetables?
   Absolutely! Feel free to add carrots, bell peppers, or even spinach to increase the vegetable content of the dish.
7. How do I know when the cabbage is done?
   The cabbage is done when it is tender and has wilted down, but still has a bit of texture. You can test it with a fork for doneness.
8. Can I use frozen cabbage?
   While fresh cabbage is preferred, you can use frozen cabbage. Just be aware that frozen cabbage may release more water while cooking.
9. Can I use canned vegetables instead of fresh cabbage?
   Fresh cabbage works best for this recipe, but you could substitute it with other canned vegetables if needed, though the texture will differ.
10. Can I freeze the leftovers?
    Yes, you can freeze the leftovers. Place the cooled dish in an airtight container or freezer bag and store it for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet.

Conclusion

Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is a simple, nutritious, and comforting meal that’s perfect for busy days when you want something quick and satisfying. The combination of ground beef, cabbage, and tomatoes creates a flavorful dish that can easily be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

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