Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage in One-Pan – A Simple, Delicious Family Favorite

If there’s one thing busy weeknights have taught me, it’s that Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage in One-Pan meals are pure gold. This dish hits all the right notes—hearty, wholesome, and blissfully low on dishes. I first made it on a chaotic Tuesday when homework, soccer practice, and my craving for comfort food all collided. One skillet, a few pantry staples, and dinner was served before the kids even had time to ask, “What’s for dinner?”

This meal is your go-to when life’s full but your energy isn’t. You get that comforting, savory aroma wafting through your kitchen with none of the fuss.

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Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage in One-Pan

Here’s why this recipe will earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation:

• Quick & fuss-free – Ready in about 40 minutes, start to finish.
• Family-approved – Even the picky eaters can’t resist the flavor.
• Healthy comfort food – Loaded with lean protein, fiber, and nutrients.
• Minimal cleanup – One skillet means less scrubbing, more relaxing.

If you love cozy skillet meals, you might also enjoy my Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls or this hearty Ground Beef Vegetable Soup.

What Does Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage in One-Pan Taste Like?

Imagine a warm hug from your grandmother’s kitchen—savory beef mingling with tender cabbage, a hint of garlic, and the richness of tomato. It’s hearty without being heavy and flavorful without needing complicated ingredients.

The tomato paste gives it that slow-cooked flavor while paprika (or chili flakes if you like a little heat) adds a subtle kick. Every bite feels grounding and nourishing—like dinner should be.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage in One-Pan

When it comes to creating flavor-packed comfort food in a single skillet, it’s all about choosing ingredients that bring both heartiness and balance. Every item in this Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage in One-Pan recipe plays an important role—nothing fancy, just everyday ingredients that turn simple pantry staples into something crave-worthy. Let’s break it down:

• Ground Beef (1 pound, lean)
  The backbone of this dish, ground beef adds rich flavor and satisfying protein. I prefer using lean ground beef (around 90% lean) to keep things on the lighter side without sacrificing that savory depth. If you’re watching calories or want a leaner version, ground turkey works beautifully too (you can see how I use it in my Ground Turkey Soup recipe). The key is to brown it well—it gives you those caramelized bits that make the skillet magic happen.
• Chopped Cabbage (4 cups, fresh and crisp)
  Ah, the unsung hero of this Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage in One-Pan meal. When sautéed just right, cabbage transforms from crunchy and raw to tender and slightly sweet. I like to chop it into medium-sized pieces so it holds texture but still soaks up the juices. If you’re a fan of cabbage-based comfort dishes, you’ll also love my Keto Cabbage Soup Recipe—it’s another cozy favorite that uses this humble vegetable in the most delicious way.
• Onion (1 medium, chopped)
  Onions are the flavor foundation of almost every great skillet meal. When they hit the pan, they release natural sugars that add depth and subtle sweetness. For this recipe, a yellow onion works best, but a white onion adds a slightly sharper edge if that’s your thing. Don’t rush the sauté—it’s what builds that hearty base flavor this dish depends on.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
  No savory meal is truly complete without garlic. Those two cloves might seem small, but they pack a punch, infusing the dish with warmth and aroma. Once you add it to the skillet, stir quickly—garlic burns fast but flavors beautifully when handled right. For another recipe where garlic shines, try my Ginger Garlic Chicken Soup.
• Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons)
  This tiny ingredient adds big flavor. Tomato paste deepens the richness of the Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage in One-Pan and ties everything together with a subtle tang. You’ll want to “toast” it for about a minute after adding it to the skillet—this step helps mellow its acidity and unlocks a deep, almost caramelized tomato flavor.
• Beef Broth (1 cup)
  Broth brings it all together, turning this into a saucy, spoonable comfort meal. I use beef broth for extra richness, but vegetable broth is a great option if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian take. You’ll find that the broth creates just enough liquid to tenderize the cabbage and soak into the beef without making it soupy. If hearty broths are your thing, check out my Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup Recipe for a similar cozy flavor experience.
• Salt (1 teaspoon, or to taste)
  A simple but essential ingredient—salt brings everything to life. I recommend starting with a teaspoon and adjusting as the dish simmers. Remember, broths can vary in saltiness, so taste before adding more.
• Black Pepper (½ teaspoon)
  Freshly cracked black pepper adds warmth and subtle heat. It complements the cabbage’s sweetness and balances the richness of the ground beef.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon, optional)
  This is where you can get creative. Paprika adds a hint of smokiness and color, while chili flakes or cumin can take it in a spicier direction. I often use smoked paprika for an earthy, southern-inspired flavor that reminds me of my grandmother’s skillet dinners.
• Fresh Herbs (for garnish)
  A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chopped green onion right before serving adds color and a burst of freshness. It’s that finishing touch that makes the dish feel complete—simple but elegant. If you’re prepping this for guests or family dinner, that pop of green gives it a restaurant-worthy look with zero effort.

A Little Tip from My Kitchen

If you want to give your Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage in One-Pan a richer texture, try adding a small splash of Worcestershire sauce or even a spoonful of tomato sauce near the end of cooking. It deepens the flavor and adds a gentle tang that pairs beautifully with the beef. And if you’re in the mood for something with similar hearty energy, you might love my Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe — all the classic flavors, just in a cozy bowl.

How to Make Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage in One-Pan

Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated—especially when you’ve got everything coming together in just one pan. Here’s your step-by-step guide to making a perfectly balanced and hearty Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage in One-Pan dinner.

Each step is simple, clear, and packed with little kitchen insights that make a big difference.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef to Build Flavor
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your lean ground beef and cook for about 5–7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula as it browns.
You’ll know it’s ready when the beef turns a deep golden color and releases that savory aroma we all love. Don’t rush this part—the browning adds incredible depth.

If your skillet gathers a little extra grease, drain it off before moving on. (You can see this same browning technique used in my Mexican Picadillo, where that rich, caramelized flavor base makes all the difference.)

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic Until Fragrant
Next, add the chopped onion to the pan and let it cook until translucent—usually about 3 minutes. This step builds your aromatic base, softening the onion and mellowing its sharpness.

Then, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for just 30 seconds or so—enough for it to release its fragrance without burning. You’ll know it’s perfect when your kitchen starts smelling like cozy comfort.

If you enjoy how garlic transforms a dish, check out my Ginger Garlic Chicken Soup for another fragrant, family-friendly favorite.

Step 3: Add the Tomato Paste and Seasonings
Now comes the flavor boost. Stir in tomato paste, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Let the tomato paste cook for a minute or two—this caramelizes it slightly, turning that tangy tomato flavor into something rich and savory.

This step-by-step layering of flavors is what gives your Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage in One-Pan that “slow-cooked” taste without the wait.
If you like a little heat, feel free to add chili flakes or a pinch of cumin for a subtle spice kick.

Step 4: Add the Cabbage and Broth — Let the Magic Happen
Toss in your chopped cabbage and pour in the beef broth (or vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter touch). Gently stir everything together, making sure the cabbage is evenly coated with the tomato mixture.

At this point, the skillet should look full—but don’t worry! The cabbage will shrink down as it cooks. Lower the heat to medium, and let it simmer uncovered for about 10–12 minutes.

You’ll notice the cabbage turning tender and slightly glossy as it absorbs all that flavor. For more one-pan comfort ideas like this, take a peek at my Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls—it’s another weeknight favorite built on the same cozy flavors.

Step 5: Stir, Taste, and Adjust
Once the cabbage is tender, give everything a gentle stir to combine. Taste and adjust your seasoning—maybe a pinch more salt, a sprinkle of pepper, or a touch of extra paprika if you’re feeling bold.

This step-by-step taste check ensures every bite hits that perfect balance of savory and sweet. Don’t skip it—your taste buds will thank you later.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve Warm
When everything’s cooked to perfection, remove the skillet from heat. Top with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for a bright pop of color and freshness.

Serve your Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage in One-Pan straight from the skillet for that rustic, homey feel. Pair it with brown rice, a slice of crusty bread, or even a dollop of sour cream if you like things creamy.

For meal-prep lovers, this dish keeps beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days—or freeze for a future no-stress dinner night. You can find more meal-prep ideas in my Cabbage Soup Crockpot Guide.

Step-by-Step Cooking Recap:
Here’s a quick recap so you can keep this process at your fingertips:

1. Brown the ground beef.
2. Sauté onion and garlic.
3. Add tomato paste and spices.
4. Mix in cabbage and broth.
5. Simmer until tender.
6. Stir, taste, garnish, and serve.

Each of these step-by-step actions brings you closer to a meal that’s hearty, nourishing, and deeply satisfying—proof that simple ingredients, cooked with care, can create pure comfort in just one pan.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage in One-Pan

• Go lean: Lean beef keeps the dish light but still flavorful.
• Don’t overcook the cabbage: It should be tender yet slightly crisp.
• Add your twist: A splash of soy sauce, Worcestershire, or chili flakes gives this dish new life.
• Make it low-carb: It already is! But if you want to keep things even lighter, skip the broth and let the veggies release their natural juices.
• Prep ahead: Chop the veggies the night before to save time.

I often double the batch and keep leftovers in the fridge. The flavors get even better overnightStorage for Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage in One-Pan

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Portion and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat on the stovetop.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works beautifully here if you want a leaner option.

What can I serve this with?
It’s hearty on its own, but a side of brown rice or crusty bread makes it extra satisfying.

Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes! Swap beef for crumbled tofu or lentils and use vegetable broth.

Conclusion

There’s just something comforting about a simple, nourishing skillet meal. This Ground Beef and Chopped Cabbage in One-Pan dish proves that healthy doesn’t mean complicated. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and endlessly adaptable—perfect for the nights you want a home-cooked meal without a mountain of dishes.

If you loved this recipe, you’ll also enjoy Keto Cabbage Soup Recipe or Cabbage Roll Soup.

Go ahead, give this one a try—and when you do, tag me on Instagram or leave a comment below. I’d love to hear how it turned out in your kitchen!

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