Hamburger Meat And Cabbage Skillet

Name: Hamburger Meat And Cabbage Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 small head of cabbage, chopped; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon paprika; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Inspiration

I love cooking up quick and delicious meals, and the Hamburger Meat And Cabbage Skillet is one of my go-to dishes. It's packed with flavor and comes together in just one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. The combination of seasoned ground beef and tender cabbage creates a comforting dish that’s both hearty and healthy. This recipe not only delights my taste buds, but it also delivers a good dose of nutrients, making it perfect for busy weekdays when I want something satisfying without spending a lot of time in the kitchen.

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2026-02-24T00:17:37.050Z

The first time I made this Hamburger Meat And Cabbage Skillet, I was amazed at how simple yet satisfying it was. I cooked everything in one skillet, which really kept the flavors rich and well-blended. As the cabbage wilts down, it absorbs the savory juices from the beef, creating a deliciously cohesive dish.

I also discovered that adding a splash of soy sauce deepens the flavor profile without overpowering the main ingredients. This dish has since become a family favorite, and I can whip it up in under 30 minutes, which is a game-changer for those busy nights!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Quick one-skillet preparation for easy cleanup
Savory flavors combine for a hearty meal
Packed with nutrients from fresh cabbage

Essential Techniques for Flavorful Beef

The key to achieving optimum flavor in your Hamburger Meat and Cabbage Skillet lies in the initial cooking process of the beef and onions. As you brown the ground beef, make sure to break it apart into smaller pieces. This technique not only helps the meat cook evenly but also allows for maximum caramelization, resulting in a rich, savory base for your dish. Keep the heat at medium to allow the beef to brown without burning, usually around 6-8 minutes should suffice.

When adding the diced onions, don't rush this step. Cooking them until they are translucent provides a natural sweetness that balances the garlic and meat flavors in the skillet. If they start to brown too quickly, lower the heat slightly to avoid a bitter taste. Aim for soft, glossy onions to complement the textures of the dish.

Maximizing the Texture of Cabbage

Cabbage can often turn soggy if overcooked, which is why it’s crucial to monitor its cooking time closely. Once you fold it into the skillet with the soy sauce, cover the pan and let it cook for just 10-12 minutes. Check the cabbage periodically; it should become tender but still maintain a slight crunch. This texture contrast contributes greatly to the overall dish, providing both tenderness and a satisfying bite.

If you prefer a sweeter flavor, consider using red cabbage instead of green. Red cabbage cooks down beautifully and adds a pop of color. You can also experiment with adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. Just keep in mind that these may need slight adjustments in cooking time to avoid overcooking.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This Hamburger Meat and Cabbage Skillet can easily be transformed with a few variations. For a kick of heat, add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños when cooking the garlic. You could also finish the dish with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of freshness that contrasts nicely with the rich flavors.

To serve, consider pairing this dish with some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices, or try it over a bed of steamed rice or quinoa to make it even more filling. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for a convenient meal prep option. Just reheat it gently on the stove or microwave, ensuring you don’t overcook the cabbage again.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Hamburger Meat And Cabbage Skillet

1 pound ground beef
1 small head of cabbage, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil

Steps

Cook the Beef and Onions

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes until softened. Then, add the ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.

Add Garlic and Seasoning

Stir in the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to release the flavors.

Incorporate Cabbage

Fold in the chopped cabbage and drizzle the soy sauce over the mixture. Stir everything together and cover the skillet. Let it cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.

Final Stir and Serve

Once the cabbage is cooked down, give everything a good stir and adjust seasonings if necessary. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes or a sprinkle of hot sauce before serving. This can elevate the dish for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to reduce the fat content, turkey or chicken ground meat can effectively replace the ground beef. Just be aware that these leaner meats may require added moisture, so consider adding a tablespoon of beef broth or extra soy sauce during cooking to keep the dish juicy and flavorful.

For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh. You may need to cook lentils separately according to their package instructions and then mix them in with the cabbage for about 5 minutes towards the end of cooking to meld the flavors together.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you want to streamline your meal prep, you can prepare the ingredients the day before. Chop the cabbage, dice the onion, and even mince the garlic ahead of time. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. When you’re ready to cook, the meal can come together in about 20 minutes.

This dish can also be made in bulk. If you double the recipe, store half in the fridge while enjoying the first half for dinner. To ensure quality during storage, let the skillet cool completely before refrigerating or freezing. When reheating, do it slowly over low heat to maintain the texture of the cabbage.

Flavor Enhancements

To elevate the flavors even further, consider adding a splash of cooking wine or balsamic vinegar to deglaze the pan after cooking the beef and onions. This not only lifts any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet but also adds an extra layer of depth to the dish.

You can also enhance the umami profile by mixing in a teaspoon of miso paste or a bit more soy sauce during the final stages of cooking. This small addition can make a significant difference, giving your dish an even richer taste without overpowering the existing flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe and will give a lighter flavor.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can substitute the ground beef with crumbled tempeh or extra firm tofu and use vegetable broth instead of soy sauce for added flavor.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to mix in bell peppers, carrots, or even broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the beef and cabbage mixture a day in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.