After a long day, when all I want is a warm and comforting meal, I often find myself reaching for my trusty skillet. There’s something about the aromas of sautéing onions and fragrant garlic that instantly lifts my spirits. Enter my Cabbage Ground Beef and Rice Skillet—this dish combines hearty ground beef, tender cabbage, and fluffy rice all in one pan, creating a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug.
Not only does it come together in just 30 minutes, but it also stays kind to your budget. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying on the table without the fuss. Plus, its versatility allows you to swap in your favorite ingredients, making it a canvas for your culinary creativity. Whether it’s a chill night in or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. So, let’s get cooking!
Why is Cabbage Ground Beef and Rice a Must-Try?
Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a hearty meal, perfect for busy nights.
Budget-Friendly: Enjoy delicious home-cooked comfort without breaking the bank – this recipe keeps your wallet happy!
Versatile Ingredients: Swap in your favorites like quinoa or ground turkey, tailoring the meal to your taste.
Family-Friendly: From kids to adults, the comforting flavors are universally loved, making it a crowd-pleaser at the dinner table.
One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying the meal and savoring each bite with family and friends!
Cabbage Ground Beef and Rice Ingredients
For the Skillet
• Ground Beef – Main protein source providing richness; substitute with turkey or plant-based meat for a leaner option.
• Cabbage – Adds bulk and nutrients; swap for Napa cabbage for a slightly different flavor and texture.
• Cooking Oil – Essential for browning meat; use avocado or olive oil based on preference.
• Unsalted Butter – Enhances flavor when sautéing vegetables; can be replaced with additional oil for dairy-free diets.
• Garlic – Adds aromatic depth; use minced or pressed for best results.
• Cooked Rice – Provides texture and fills the dish; about ½ cup raw is perfect; opt for brown rice if pre-cooked.
• Onion – Brings sweetness and form; regular or yellow onions work well in this dish.
• Carrot – Adds sweetness and color; grate for easy incorporation into the skillet.
• Vegetable Broth – Provides moisture and depth of flavor; substitute with chicken broth if desired.
• Red Bell Pepper – Adds crunch and sweetness; can be swapped for any preferred color of bell pepper.
• Tomato Paste – Contributes richness and acidity; using a tube makes it convenient for quick meals.
• Sugar (optional) – Balances acidity; can be omitted if preferred.
• Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings, added to taste to enhance overall flavor.
• Ground Paprika – Enhances flavor with a mild smokiness; both regular and smoked varieties work well.
For Serving
• Fresh Dill – Provides a fresh garnish that brightens up flavors; can be used or omitted based on preference.
• Sour Cream – Adds a creamy finish; perfect for those who enjoy a touch of richness with their meal.
This Cabbage Ground Beef and Rice recipe is a wholesome choice, perfect for any weeknight dinner!
How to Make Cabbage Ground Beef and Rice
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Cook the Beef: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
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Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of butter. Once melted, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes. Then, add in the minced garlic, grated carrot, and diced bell pepper, cooking until they soften, which should take another 3-4 minutes.
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Add Liquids: Mix in the tomato paste and pour in the vegetable broth, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Cook the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage, salt, black pepper, and ground paprika into the skillet. Cover and let it simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
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Combine Everything: Return the cooked beef to the skillet and add the cooked rice. Stir everything together until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
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Serve: Dish out the warm mixture onto plates, garnishing with fresh dill and a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
Optional: Serve with warm crusty bread for extra comfort!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Cabbage Ground Beef and Rice Skillets are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the vegetables and ground beef mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply sauté and combine them, storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cabbage should be chopped ahead and stored separately to maintain its crispness. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the mixture in a skillet, add the cooked rice, and let it warm through. This way, you’ll enjoy the comforting flavors of your hearty meal with minimal effort, making it a smart choice for meal prep!
What to Serve with Cabbage Ground Beef and Rice Skillet?
Pairing the perfect sides will elevate your one-pan meal, enhancing flavors and textures.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for sopping up the savory juices, crusty bread brings a delightful crunch and complements the dish’s richness. Serve it warm for a comforting addition.
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Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette adds brightness and balances the hearty flavors of the skillet. It’s a refreshing contrast that leaves you feeling satisfied yet light.
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Steamed Broccoli: This vibrant green veggie not only adds nutrients but also a satisfying crunch. Its mild flavor works well with the dish, providing a colorful and healthy side.
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Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes infused with garlic are a delightful contrast to the tender cabbage and beef. Their creamy texture creates a delightful mouthfeel, making every bite enjoyable.
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Sweet Corn: Sweet corn on the cob or even sautéed kernels can add a pop of sweetness that beautifully complements the savory elements of the dish. It’s a family favorite that will make everyone smile.
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Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top adds a creamy richness and tang. This addition enhances the comforting nature of the skillet, bringing all the flavors together beautifully.
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Sparkling Water or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink like sparkling water with a slice of lemon or a chilled iced tea will cleanse your palate beautifully between bites, making for a delightful dining experience.
Storage Tips for Cabbage Ground Beef and Rice
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s well-sealed to retain moisture and flavors.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Cabbage Ground Beef and Rice in a suitable container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
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Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth if the mixture seems dry.
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Room Temperature: Avoid leaving out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to maintain food safety. Always refrigerate promptly after serving.
Helpful Tricks for Cabbage Ground Beef and Rice
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Don’t Rush the Browning: Allow the ground beef to brown fully before moving on; this step deepens flavor and ensures a satisfying texture in your Cabbage Ground Beef and Rice.
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Chop Evenly: Cut vegetables into uniform sizes for consistent cooking. This ensures every bite of your dish is perfectly cooked and adds to the overall presentation.
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Flavor Boost: Add a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce when cooking the beef for an extra layer of savory goodness that enhances the dish’s flavor profile.
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Check Cabbage Tenderness: Stir occasionally while the cabbage simmers. Undercooked cabbage can be tough; you want it to be tender, not mushy, in your Cabbage Ground Beef and Rice.
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Utilize Leftovers Wisely: If you have leftover rice, ensure it’s not too dry by adding a bit of broth when combining it with the other ingredients, creating a delightful blend of flavors.
Cabbage Ground Beef and Rice Variations
Feel free to adapt this dish to match your taste preferences and dietary needs!
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Ground Turkey: Swap ground beef for ground turkey to create a leaner option without sacrificing flavor. This subtle change makes the meal lighter while still satisfying.
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Napa Cabbage: Replace regular cabbage with Napa cabbage for a sweeter, more tender texture. It’s a delightful twist that adds a unique element to your skillet!
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Quinoa: Use quinoa instead of rice to give your dish a protein-packed and gluten-free alternative. This swap not only alters the texture but also boosts the nutritional value.
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Cauliflower Rice: For a lower-carb version, substitute cooked rice with cauliflower rice. It will still absorb the delicious flavors of the dish while offering a lighter, veggie-based flair.
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Spice Boost: Add in some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a touch of heat! Spice lovers will appreciate this fiery variation that elevates the taste profile.
For a more aromatic experience, consider stirring in some Italian seasoning or dried herbs for a Mediterranean twist. The added herbs can create a lovely harmony with the other flavors.
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Veggie Medley: Toss in extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms before adding the cabbage. This increases the volume, adding more nutrition and vibrant colors to the meal.
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Creamy Touch: Mix in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt toward the end for a luscious, creamy texture. It creates a delightful richness that will feel comforting with every bite.
Cabbage Ground Beef and Rice Recipe FAQs
What type of cabbage should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using regular green cabbage for its texture and flavor, but Napa cabbage is also a fantastic choice! Napa cabbage adds a milder taste and is extremely tender. Just be sure to chop it into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
How should I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store your Cabbage Ground Beef and Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing to retain moisture. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months—just be sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Cabbage Ground Beef and Rice, transfer it to a freezer-safe container once it cools down. Make sure to leave some space at the top, as it will expand when frozen. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it gently before serving.
What should I do if the cabbage doesn’t cook down enough?
No worries! If you find your cabbage is still crunchy after the suggested simmering time, you can simply cover the skillet and cook it for an additional 2-3 minutes on low heat, stirring occasionally. This step should help it soften up nicely without turning it to mush, maintaining all the delightful textures!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! For a dairy-free version, you can replace the butter with a neutral oil, like avocado oil. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, make sure to use a gluten-free broth or skip the soy sauce. Additionally, for those with allergies to certain vegetables, feel free to swap in your favorites, ensuring a dish that suits your family’s needs!
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, using brown rice is a great option! Just be mindful that brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice. If you’re starting with raw brown rice, you’ll need to cook it separately beforehand or adjust the broth in the skillet to accommodate the cooking process. This approach makes for a healthier and heartier meal!
Savor Cabbage Ground Beef and Rice in Just 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of butter. Once melted, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes. Add minced garlic, grated carrot, and diced bell pepper, cooking until softened, about another 3-4 minutes.
- Mix in the tomato paste and pour in the vegetable broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Add the chopped cabbage, salt, black pepper, and ground paprika into the skillet. Cover and let simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet and add the cooked rice, stirring everything together until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
- Dish out onto plates, garnishing with fresh dill and a dollop of sour cream, if desired.