1. Preparing the Ingredients:
- Start by prepping your vegetables. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, dice the onion, and mince the garlic. Set these aside.
2. Browning the Beef:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Cook the beef until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. If there is excess fat, drain it off.
3. Sautéing the Vegetables:
- Add the diced onion to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
4. Adding the Cabbage:
- Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. It may seem like a lot at first, but the cabbage will cook down significantly.
- Stir the cabbage into the beef and onion mixture, allowing it to wilt down as it cooks. This should take about 5 minutes.
5. Seasoning and Simmering:
- Once the cabbage has started to soften, add the smoked paprika, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the cabbage and beef with the seasonings.
- Add the tomato paste and stir it into the mixture until well combined.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the beef broth. If you’re using Worcestershire sauce, add it now.
- Stir everything together, making sure the cabbage is well-coated in the tomato mixture.
- If using, add the bay leaf for added depth of flavor.
6. Cooking Until Tender:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
7. Finishing Touches:
- Once the cabbage is tender, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
8. Serving:
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a burst of freshness and color.
- Serve the cabbage and ground beef skillet as is, or with a side of crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Tips and Variations:
- Add Vegetables: For extra nutrition and flavor, add diced carrots, bell peppers, or celery to the skillet when sautéing the onions.
- Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the skillet.
- Cheesy Option: Top the dish with shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese during the last few minutes of cooking. Cover the skillet to allow the cheese to melt.
- Make It Low-Carb: Serve the cabbage and ground beef over cauliflower rice or as a filling for lettuce wraps to keep the dish low in carbs.
- Leftovers: This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for meal prep.
This Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is a simple, one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, making it a delicious and comforting dish that you’ll want to make again and again.