Cheesy Ground Beef Cabbage

This cheesy ground beef and cabbage skillet is a weeknight saver that comes together so easily with just one pan. It is cozy and filling with layers of seasoned beef, tender cabbage, peppers, and the perfect cheesy finish. Everyone in my house loves this meal and it is a favorite for feeding a crowd or making sure there are leftovers for lunch.

Every time I make this skillet I am reminded of the first time I served it at a potluck. Not a single scoop was left and someone always asks for the recipe.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Gives the dish its hearty base look for lean ground beef for less grease
• Onion (chopped): Builds sweet flavor as it cooks choose a firm onion with tight skin
• Green bell pepper: Brings subtle sweetness and crunch pick a pepper that feels heavy for its size
• Minced garlic: Completes the flavor base fresh garlic always gives more punch but use jarred in a pinch
• Worcestershire sauce: Provides savory depth and umami
• Garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper: Together create layers of seasoning
• Diced tomatoes: Add tang and extra juiciness use high quality canned tomatoes with no added sugar
• Green chilis: Offer a mild kick and bright flavor choose fire roasted for more depth
• Cabbage: Adds bulk and texture pick a head with tight crisp leaves
• Beef broth: Brings everything together and helps soften the cabbage
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Delivers that classic melty top use sharp cheddar for bold flavor
• Salt (to taste): Brings out all the flavors be sure to taste and adjust at the end

Instructions

Brown the Beef and Vegetables:

Add ground beef, onions, and green bell peppers to a large skillet set over medium high heat. Stir every minute or so to break up the meat and cook evenly. Let the mixture cook until the beef is fully browned and the vegetables have softened and smell fragrant. This sweating process brings out the sweetness in the onion and peppers and forms the savory base for your dish.

Add Garlic and Drain Fat:

Once the beef is browned, push aside some of the mixture and add the minced garlic directly to the pan. Let it sizzle for just about thirty seconds until very aromatic. Do not step away now since garlic burns quickly. Then drain any excess fat from the skillet to keep your dish from tasting greasy.

Season Everything:

Sprinkle the Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and some salt over the hot mixture. Stir everything really well making sure all the beef and veggies are coated with the seasoning. This is your chance to build big bold flavor layers.

Add Tomatoes, Broth and Chilies:

Pour the diced tomatoes, green chilis, and beef broth into the skillet. Give it a thorough stir. These liquids will help create a sauce and start to soften the cabbage in the next step.

Simmer with the Cabbage:

Pile the chopped cabbage right on top of the skillet contents. Put a snug lid on and reduce the heat to medium. Let the mixture simmer for twenty minutes. The cabbage will steam and wilt down making it sweet and tender.

Finish with Cheese:

Remove the lid and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese while everything is still steaming hot. Keep stirring gently until all the cheese melts and coats the beef vegetable mixture in cheesy goodness. Serve right away while the cheese is stretchy and perfect.

Cabbage is the heart of this recipe. I always get nostalgic chopping cabbage because it reminds me of my grandma’s kitchen sounds and smells. She would pile it high in soups and stews and now I love doing the same with this one pan meal.

Storage Tips

Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat portions on the stove or in the microwave until piping hot. If you want to freeze this skillet do so before stirring in the cheese. Add fresh cheese when reheating for the best texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can swap in purple cabbage for some of the green for a more colorful skillet. Want to add extra veggies Stir in diced mushrooms or a handful of spinach near the end.

Serving Suggestions

This skillet is hearty on its own but you can serve it over brown rice for extra staying power. It’s also great with a side of crusty bread or a dollop of sour cream on top for tang. If you are having guests sprinkle fresh chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro for freshness.

Cultural Context

Cabbage and ground meat appear together in so many traditional comfort dishes from German cabbage rolls to Russian shchi. This recipe channels those homespun flavors into a quick skillet for modern cooks who want nostalgia and convenience.

Seasonal Adaptations

Use savoy cabbage or napa cabbage in spring for a milder bite. For winter comfort add some diced potatoes in with the beef. In summer toss in sliced zucchini or corn for sweetness.

Success Stories

The first time I brought this skillet to a family potluck I was nervous but everyone raved and went back for seconds. It has become a staple for busy school nights because I know I will not hear any complaints. Meals that make everyone happy and are easy to clean up are the best kind.

Freezer Meal Conversion

If meal prepping for the freezer brown the beef and veggies and add the seasoning liquid tomatoes and chilies. Let cool then freeze in a labeled bag. When ready to eat thaw in the fridge dump into your skillet add cabbage and simmer then finish with cheese.

This cozy skillet is sure to become a staple on your dinner table. Enjoy easy prep, hearty flavor, and smiles around the table every time.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I use a different meat instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground sausage or even ground turkey are great substitutes for ground beef in this skillet meal.

→ What other vegetables pair well here?

Mushrooms, carrots, or red cabbage can be added for extra color and flavor based on what you have on hand.

→ How can I make this less spicy?

Use mild diced tomatoes, omit green chilis, and adjust any seasonings to ensure a milder, kid-friendly taste.

→ What cheese works best for melting?

Shredded cheddar melts beautifully, but Monterey Jack or mozzarella also complement the beef and cabbage well.

→ Is this dish good for meal prep?

Absolutely! It reheats well, making it convenient for lunches or quick weeknight dinners throughout the week.