Name: Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet in 20 Minutes Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2-3 tablespoon vegetable oil for cooking; 1 medium to large onion, chopped; 1 medium carrot, grated or julienned; ½ of a medium cabbage, chopped; 3 tablespoon tomato sauce or paste; ½ cup beef broth or vegetable broth; 1 ½ teaspoon paprika (regular or smoked)

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Introduction

This Ground Beef and Cabbage recipe is a quick and comforting dish ready in just 20 minutes. It combines savory beef with tender cabbage and a hint of paprika for a flavorful, satisfying meal perfect for busy weeknights.

The image shows a close-up of cooked ground meat mixed with chopped cabbage pieces in a white pan. The ground meat is dark brown and crumbly, spread evenly throughout the dish. The cabbage pieces are light yellow with browned edges, adding texture and color contrast. Small bits of carrot add a thin, curly orange layer, while fresh green parsley is sprinkled on top as a garnish. A wooden spoon is partially scooping the mixture from the pan, holding a mix of all ingredients. The background has a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound lean ground beef
½ of a medium cabbage, chopped
1 medium carrot, grated or julienned
3 tablespoons tomato sauce or paste
½ cup beef broth (or vegetable broth)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 ½ teaspoons paprika (regular or smoked)
1 medium to large onion
2-3 tablespoons vegetable oil for cooking

Instructions

Step 1: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef along with salt and pepper to taste. Cook until the beef is browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed, then set the beef aside.
Step 2: In the same skillet, add the vegetable oil if necessary and cook the chopped onion until translucent. Add the grated carrot and cook until the carrot softens.
Step 3: Stir in the tomato sauce or paste and the beef or vegetable broth. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes so the flavors meld.
Step 4: Add the chopped cabbage along with salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir well, cover with a lid, and simmer until the cabbage softens, stirring occasionally. Cook until partially wilted for some crunch or longer for fully tender cabbage.
Step 5: Return the cooked ground beef to the skillet and stir everything together until heated through. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives if desired, and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika.
Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for a savory depth.
Try substituting ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Include minced garlic with the onions for added aroma and taste.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of broth or water when reheating can keep the dish moist.

How to Serve

A close-up of a black pan filled with cooked cabbage and ground beef pieces mixed together. The cabbage is in light yellow to golden brown cooked patches with some crispy edges, while the ground beef is a rich brown color. Small bits of orange carrot and green parsley leaves are scattered on top, adding texture and color contrast. A wooden spoon rests on the right side inside the pan. The pan is placed on a beige surface, and a light cloth is seen at the bottom left corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen ground beef for this recipe?

Yes, but be sure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking to ensure even browning and proper cooking.

Is this dish suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! It holds well in the fridge and is easy to portion out for lunches or dinners throughout the week.