This Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner is the kind of hearty, no-fuss meal that makes weeknights feel a bit easier. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can create a comforting, savory dish that satisfies hungry bellies and leaves minimal dishes behind. Think of it as the ultimate one-pan wonder – loaded with flavor, but ready in less than 30 minutes.

The beef is juicy and perfectly seasoned, the cabbage becomes tender with just the right amount of bite, and the combination of carrots and onion adds natural sweetness that balances the savory meat. It’s healthy, budget-friendly, and endlessly adaptable. Serve it as is, wrap it in tortillas, or pile it over rice for a quick, complete meal.

What Kind of Ground Beef Should I Use?

For this recipe, opt for lean ground beef –90/10 or 85/15—so you get rich flavor without too much grease. If using fattier beef, just drain the excess fat after browning. You could also substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or even go plant-based with veggie crumbles.

Ingredients for the Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner

Ground Beef: The heart of the dish; savory, rich, and satisfying.
Green Cabbage: Sliced thinly, it softens beautifully and absorbs the flavors in the skillet.
Carrots: Shredded or julienned, they bring sweetness and color.
Onion: Yellow or white onions give depth and aroma.
Garlic: A few cloves elevate the whole skillet with bold flavor.
Soy Sauce: Adds a umami-rich saltiness that ties everything together.
Paprika: Offers warmth and color to the overall taste.
Salt and Pepper: To season everything just right.
Olive Oil: Helps sauté everything to tender perfection.
Fresh Parsley (optional): For garnish and a fresh finish.

How To Make the Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink. If there’s excess fat, drain it.

Step 2: Add Onions and Garlic

Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and aromatic.

Step 3: Stir in the Vegetables

Add the shredded carrots and cabbage. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to soften but still has texture.

Step 4: Season It Right

Pour in the soy sauce, sprinkle in paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until evenly coated. Let cook for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Finish and Garnish

Once the cabbage is tender and flavors melded, remove from heat. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Serving and Storing This Easy Skillet Dinner

This dish is best served hot straight from the skillet. However, leftovers keep well and may even taste better the next day as the flavors deepen. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium or microwave for a quick lunch or dinner.

You can also meal prep it – portion into individual containers and pair with rice or noodles for a full meal ready to grab-and-go.

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

Steamed White or Brown Rice

Perfect for soaking up all the savory juices in the skillet.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Add a creamy, comforting side that pairs beautifully with the beef.

Crusty Bread

Ideal for scooping up every last bite.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

For a slightly sweet, earthy contrast.

Simple Green Salad

Keep it fresh and light with a vinaigrette-dressed salad.

Fried or Poached Egg

Add extra protein and richness.

Tortillas or Lettuce Wraps

Turn this skillet into a fun handheld meal.

Want More Skillet Dinner Ideas?

If you love this quick and comforting beef skillet, here are some other delicious recipes to explore:

Creamy Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta for cheesy one-pan comfort.
Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet Delight for a lighter twist.
Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet if you crave bold, spicy flavors.
Smoky BBQ Chicken Cheddar Pasta Skillet for a smoky, cheesy fix.
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup when you need a hearty, spoonable version.

Save This Pin For Later

Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.

Tried it with a twist? Maybe a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of Worcestershire sauce? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.

Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.

Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner

Author: Julia Walton
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Looking for a quick, satisfying meal that uses basic ingredients and minimal prep? This Easy Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Dinner is just the ticket. It’s a one-pan weeknight wonder combining tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a punch of flavor with soy sauce and spices. Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is ideal for anyone needing quick dinner ideas, healthy comfort food, or budget-friendly meals. Serve it over rice, wrap it in a tortilla, or enjoy it straight from the skillet. It’s one of those go-to food ideas that checks every box: easy recipe, hearty dinner, and totally delicious.

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart, until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed.

2. Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and translucent.

3. Add the shredded carrots and cabbage. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens slightly.

4. Pour in the soy sauce, sprinkle with paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly and cook for another 2–3 minutes until everything is well coated.

5. Remove from heat. Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

Be sure not to overcook the cabbage. You want it tender with a slight crunch.

You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by swapping the beef for plant-based crumbles.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 340
Sugar: 6
Sodium: 780
Fat: 22
Saturated Fat: 7
Unsaturated Fat: 13
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 12
Fiber: 3
Protein: 21
Cholesterol: 70

Keywords: easy dinner, cabbage recipe, one-pan meal, quick dinner, healthy skillet