Description
This Hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet is a comforting one-pan meal perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner. Featuring ground beef simmered with tender cabbage, diced tomatoes, and a blend of spices, it’s flavorful, filling, and easy to prepare. Optional cheddar cheese adds a melty finish, while fresh parsley offers a bright garnish. Ideal for those following a gluten-free diet, this dish combines simple ingredients into a satisfying American classic.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon, about 5–7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary to prevent greasiness.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to wilt and soften but still retains some texture.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, paprika, oregano, salt, black pepper, and the optional crushed red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Mixture: Reduce heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for 10–12 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and flavors meld together.
- Finish and Serve: Uncover the skillet and stir well. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top and allow it to melt before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh burst of color and flavor.
Notes
- For extra depth of flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a spoonful of Dijon mustard during the simmering step.
- This recipe works well substituting ground turkey or pork in place of the beef.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit altogether for a milder dish.
- Serve with a side of crusty gluten-free bread or a simple green salad to complete the meal.
