Craving a comforting, hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen? This Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner is a one-pan wonder that checks all the boxes: it’s quick, budget-friendly, loaded with flavor, and perfect for weeknight meals. Packed with savory ground beef, sweet caramelized cabbage, and a medley of simple seasonings, this dish is a go-to when you need dinner on the table fast.

It’s the kind of rustic, homestyle dish that feels like a warm hug. You can serve it solo, stuff it in a baked potato, or spoon it over rice for a filling meal. It’s flexible, meal-prep friendly, and oh-so-satisfying.

Can I Use Any Type of Cabbage for This Skillet Dinner?

Green cabbage is the traditional go-to here. It softens beautifully and its natural sweetness shines through when sautéed. Savoy or Napa cabbage can work in a pinch, but the texture and flavor will vary slightly. Avoid red cabbage unless you’re okay with a more bitter bite and a pink-tinged dish.

Ingredients for the Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner

Ground Beef – Provides the savory, protein-rich base. Choose 85/15 for flavor or leaner if you’re watching fat.

Green Cabbage – The star of the show! Sliced thin so it wilts down and absorbs flavor.

Onion – Adds aromatic depth and slight sweetness when sautéed.

Garlic – Boosts the umami and rounds out the flavor.

Carrot – Shredded or sliced for a hint of natural sweetness and color.

Tomato Paste – Adds richness and a slight tang that complements the beef.

Paprika – For a smoky warmth (use smoked paprika if you want extra depth).

Salt and Pepper – Essential for seasoning.

Olive Oil – For sautéing everything evenly.

How To Make the Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and shredded carrots, cooking until softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it apart and cook until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess grease if necessary.

Step 3: Stir in the Flavor

Mix in tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture cook for another 2 minutes to marry the flavors.

Step 4: Add the Cabbage

Fold in the sliced cabbage. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 10–15 minutes until the cabbage is wilted and slightly caramelized.

Step 5: Adjust and Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley if you like and serve hot.

How to Serve and Store This Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet

This skillet dinner is best served hot straight from the pan. But leftovers? Even better the next day. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully on the stove or in the microwave.

For freezing, portion into freezer-safe containers and keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

What to Serve With Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner?

Garlic Butter Potatoes

Perfectly crispy and buttery, they balance out the savory skillet.

Fluffy White Rice

A classic base to soak up all the juices.

Crusty Bread

A chunk of sourdough or baguette makes a great scoop for saucy bites.

Fried Egg on Top

Adds extra richness and turns this into a hearty brunch option.

Pickled Vegetables

A tangy contrast that cuts through the richness of the beef.

Roasted Green Beans

For a crisp, vibrant veggie side.

Simple Garden Salad

A light and refreshing complement to the hearty main.

Want More Skillet Dinner Ideas?

If this hearty beef and cabbage combo is your style, here are a few more one-pan wonders to explore:

Try this comforting Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a pasta twist.
Looking for another creamy beef option? Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is a dreamy dinner.
Mix it up with Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta – simple and satisfying.
For bold flavor lovers, the Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce is irresistible.
And don’t miss the Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts if you’re swapping beef for chicken.

Save This Pin For Later

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try adding chili flakes or keep it classic? Have a favorite topping like shredded cheddar or a squeeze of lemon?

I love seeing your spins on these skillet meals. Drop a question too if you’re stuck—we’re in this kitchen together!

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