Get ready to transform an ordinary weeknight meal into an extraordinary culinary experience with this mouthwatering Crunchy Cabbage Skillet Dinner! Imagine a one-pan wonder that combines the hearty richness of ground beef, the sweet crunch of fresh cabbage, and a symphony of perfectly balanced seasonings. This recipe isn't just a meal – it's a flavor explosion that will have your family begging for seconds and your taste buds dancing with joy!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by thoroughly washing the cabbage and chopping it into roughly 1-inch pieces. Set aside in a large bowl.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wide pan over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to shimmer and become hot, which takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Add diced onions to the skillet and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Introduce ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon or spatula. Cook until the meat is completely browned and no pink remains, about 6-7 minutes.
- Sprinkle paprika, salt, and pepper over the meat, stirring to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and stir, allowing the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes to blend flavors.
- Add chopped cabbage to the skillet, gently folding it into the meat mixture. Cover and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender but still maintains a slight crunch.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt and pepper to preference.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot directly from the skillet, ensuring each portion has a mix of meat and cabbage.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cabbage: Look for a fresh, firm cabbage head with crisp, vibrant leaves. The fresher the cabbage, the more satisfying crunch you'll achieve.
- Meat Browning Secrets: Ensure your skillet is hot before adding ground beef. This helps create a beautiful golden-brown exterior that locks in flavor.
- Don't Overcook the Cabbage: The magic of this dish is in the slight crunch. Keep an eye on your cabbage and remove from heat while it still has a bit of texture.
- Seasoning is Key: Don't be shy with paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste as you go and adjust seasonings to your preference.
- Let It Rest: Those crucial 2-3 minutes of resting time allow the flavors to meld together, creating a more cohesive and delicious dish.
- Meal Prep Hack: This recipe is perfect for batch cooking and reheats beautifully, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights or meal planning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 70mg
