Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet in 35 Minutes of Joy

Name: Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet in 35 Minutes of Joy
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 head green cabbage, chopped; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup shredded cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh cilantro for garnish

June 7, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this ground beef taco cabbage skillet! It’s like a flavor fiesta all in one pan! Picture this: savory ground beef mingling with tender cabbage, all enveloped in a warm, spicy hug of chili powder and cumin. The best part? It’s ready in just 35 minutes! I often whip this up on busy weeknights when I want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s become a family favorite—my kids love to scoop it up with crunchy tortilla chips! This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a win-win for me. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be adding it to your regular meal rotation!

ground beef taco cabbage skillet - detail 1

Ingredients List

1 pound ground beef: Use a good quality beef with around 80% lean for the perfect balance of flavor and moisture.
1 medium onion, diced: Sweet onions work great here, adding a lovely sweetness to the dish.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings a punch of flavor—don’t be shy with it!
1 tablespoon chili powder: This is where the magic begins! A good chili powder adds depth and warmth.
1 teaspoon cumin: Cumin introduces an earthy note that pairs perfectly with the beef.
1 teaspoon paprika: Sweet or smoked paprika adds a subtle sweetness and a beautiful color.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all those delicious flavors.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper gives a nice kick.
1/2 head green cabbage, chopped: Adds crunch and bulk, plus it’s super nutritious!
1 cup diced tomatoes: Canned or fresh, they add juiciness and a bit of acidity to balance the richness.
1/2 cup shredded cheese: Cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully on top—yum!
2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing—don’t skimp on the oil; it helps everything cook evenly.
Fresh cilantro for garnish: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous note to finish it off.

How to Prepare the Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet

Now, let’s dive into the heart of this delicious dish! I promise it’s super straightforward, and before you know it, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready to go. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be a pro in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat the olive oil: Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want it nice and hot but not smoking—just enough to get those flavors going!
Sauté the onion: Toss in the diced onion and sauté it for about 3-4 minutes, or until it’s translucent. This step is crucial because it builds the flavor base for your skillet!
Add the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute. Make sure to keep an eye on it—garlic can burn quickly, and burnt garlic is no bueno!
Brown the beef: Next, add in the ground beef. Use a spatula to break it apart as it cooks, and let it brown for about 5-7 minutes. You want it nice and cooked through, with no pink remaining. This is where the magic happens!
Spice it up: Once the beef is browned, mix in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to coat the beef and let those spices bloom for about a minute. Trust me, your kitchen will smell incredible!
Add the cabbage and tomatoes: Now, toss in the chopped cabbage and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together until well combined. The cabbage will wilt down, so don’t worry if it looks like a lot at first!
Simmer: Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Just keep an eye on it—if it looks too dry, add a splash of water or broth.
Melt the cheese: After the simmering, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for a couple of minutes until the cheese is melted and gooey. Oh yes, this is the moment you’ve been waiting for!
Garnish and serve: Finally, garnish with fresh cilantro just before serving. Scoop it up on plates or in bowls, and enjoy your delicious ground beef taco cabbage skillet!

And there you have it! This dish comes together so smoothly that you’ll be making it on repeat. Just remember, the key is in the timing and letting those flavors develop. Happy cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This ground beef taco cabbage skillet comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal in a flash!
Hearty and Satisfying: With tender ground beef, crunchy cabbage, and rich spices, this dish is both filling and comforting—it’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutritious veggies and lean protein, this skillet dish is a wholesome option that won’t weigh you down.
One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup? Yes, please! Everything cooks in one skillet, so you can enjoy a delicious meal without drowning in dirty dishes.
Customizable: You can easily tweak this recipe to your taste—add jalapeños for heat, swap in ground turkey for a lighter option, or throw in any leftover veggies you have on hand!
Kid-Friendly: My kids devour this dish! The cheesy topping and fun presentation make it a hit with the little ones, so you can get everyone to the table with smiles.

Tips for Success

To make your ground beef taco cabbage skillet truly shine, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t rush the sautéing process—taking the time to cook the onions and garlic until they’re just right sets the flavor foundation for the entire dish. Choose a good quality ground beef, ideally around 80% lean; it gives the perfect balance of flavor without being overly greasy. If you’re looking to add a little heat, toss in some diced jalapeños when you add the spices. For serving, I love to pile this skillet mixture high on crunchy tortilla chips or in soft tortillas for a fun twist! And don’t forget a generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top—it adds that pop of freshness we all crave!

Variations of the Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet

One of the best things about this ground beef taco cabbage skillet is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up to keep your meals exciting. Here are a few variations that I absolutely love:

Ground Turkey: For a lighter option, swap the ground beef for ground turkey. It still holds up beautifully in this dish, and you won’t lose any of that hearty flavor!
Spicy Kick: If you’re a fan of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce when you mix in the spices. This will give your skillet an extra layer of flavor and a nice kick!
Veggie-Loaded: Feel free to throw in additional veggies! Bell peppers, zucchini, or even corn can be great additions. Just chop them up and stir them in with the cabbage to add color and nutrition.
Different Cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese for topping. Pepper Jack adds a nice spice, while a blend of Mexican cheeses creates a delightful melt!
Beans: For some added fiber and protein, mix in a can of black beans or pinto beans. Rinse them well and stir them in when you add the tomatoes and cabbage.
Seasoning Variations: Don’t hesitate to play around with the spices! Try adding a dash of cayenne pepper for heat or a bit of oregano for a twist on the classic taco flavor.

With these variations, you can keep this dish fresh and fun every time you make it. Get creative and make it your own—I can’t wait to hear what you come up with!

Equipment Needed

Large Skillet: A wide, heavy-bottomed skillet is essential for this dish. It ensures even heat distribution, which is crucial for browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables perfectly.
Spatula: A sturdy spatula is your best friend for breaking up the ground beef as it cooks and for mixing everything together without scratching your skillet.
Cutting Board: A good cutting board is necessary for chopping your onions, garlic, and cabbage. A non-slip board will help you chop safely and efficiently.
Chef’s Knife: A sharp chef’s knife makes quick work of dicing vegetables and preparing your ingredients. It’s a must-have for any home cook!
Measuring Spoons: Accurate measurements are important for spices, so keep a set of measuring spoons handy to get those flavors just right.
Can Opener: If you’re using canned tomatoes, a reliable can opener is essential for getting to that juicy goodness inside!
Lid for Skillet: Having a lid that fits your skillet is key for simmering the dish and melting the cheese to perfection. It helps trap in heat and moisture, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.

These tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional data for this delicious ground beef taco cabbage skillet. Keep in mind that these values are based on typical ingredients used and can vary depending on specific brands or modifications you make:

Calories: 350
Fat: 20g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 600mg
Fiber: 4g
Cholesterol: 70mg

This dish is not only satisfying but also packed with protein and fiber to keep you feeling full and energized. Enjoy!

FAQ Section

Can I store leftovers of the ground beef taco cabbage skillet?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it seems a bit dry.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the skillet dish! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well for about 2-3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

What can I serve with the ground beef taco cabbage skillet?
This dish is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate your meal by serving it with tortilla chips, warm tortillas, or even over rice for a heartier option. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of avocado would also be delightful!

Can I use different types of meat?
Definitely! Feel free to swap ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based substitute if you want to keep it lighter or vegetarian. Just adjust the cooking time as needed based on the meat you choose.

What if I don’t have fresh cilantro?
No worries! If fresh cilantro isn’t available, you can use a sprinkle of dried cilantro or simply omit it. You could also try garnishing with fresh parsley or even green onions for a pop of color and flavor!

Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! This recipe is super flexible. Feel free to toss in any extra veggies you have on hand, like bell peppers, zucchini, or even corn. Just chop them up and add them in when you mix in the cabbage!

How spicy is this dish?
The level of spice can easily be adjusted! If you like it mild, stick to the recipe as is. For more heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper when mixing in the spices. It’s all about your personal taste!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.