Monday, December 15, 2025

One-Pot Fried Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet (Easy 35-Minute Dinner)


Hey Y'all!  Welcome to my West Virginia Kitchen. If you’re craving a simple, hearty, and budget-friendly dinner, this One-Pot Fried Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet checks every box. It’s packed with flavor, made in one pan, and ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Tender cabbage, savory ground beef, colorful vegetables, and a bold smoky seasoning blend come together in one skillet for a comforting meal that feels nostalgic yet modern. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping, or using up a head of cabbage, this recipe delivers.  I can't wait to share it with you so...


Let's Get Started!











Why You’ll Love This One-Pot Fried Cabbage Skillet

  • One pot = easy cleanup
  • Budget-friendly ingredients
  • Naturally gluten-free
  • Low-carb and keto-friendly options
  • Customizable with whatever veggies you have
  • Perfect for busy weeknights








Ingredients for Fried Cabbage and Ground Beef

Base Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 works best)
  • 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, thinly sliced (optional but recommended)
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)
  • 1–2 cups chopped zucchini or frozen mixed vegetables (optional)
  • 2 tbsp butter or oil

Seasoning Mix

  • 1 ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½–1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

Finishing Touches

  • 1–2 tsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce or extra Worcestershire
  • Optional: shredded cheddar or pepper jack cheese
  • Optional: sliced green onions for garnish








How to Make One-Pot Fried Cabbage and Ground Beef

1. Brown the Ground Beef

Heat a large deep skillet or pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until well-browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Lightly season with salt and pepper.

Push the beef to one side of the pan and add the butter.

2. Cook the Aromatics

Add the onion, carrots, and bell pepper to the open side of the pan. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add the Cabbage

Add the chopped cabbage in large handfuls. Let it cook down, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes. Continue cooking until most of the liquid evaporates and the edges start to turn golden.

4. Season It Well

Add the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well and cook for 3–4 minutes to bloom the spices.

5. Finish with Brightness

Stir in the apple cider vinegar and soy sauce (or extra Worcestershire). Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

6. Optional Cheesy Finish

Sprinkle shredded cheddar or pepper jack over the top if desired. Cover the skillet for 2 minutes until melted.










Serving Ideas

  • Serve in a bowl as-is
  • Spoon over rice, cauliflower rice, or egg noodles
  • Serve with cornbread or biscuits
  • Wrap in low-carb tortillas








Easy Recipe Variations

  • Cajun Style: Add 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning and sliced andouille sausage
  • Italian-Inspired: Swap in Italian seasoning and add diced tomatoes
  • Tex-Mex: Add chili powder and cumin; stir in a can of Rotel
  • Low-Carb Creamy: Stir in 3–4 oz cream cheese at the end








Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
Yes. Add a little extra butter or oil since lean meats release less fat.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes! Keep it low-carb by skipping rice or noodles.











This One-Pot Fried Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is comfort food done right. Simple ingredients, bold flavor, and minimal cleanup make it a weeknight staple you’ll come back to again and again. Iknow you're gonna love it, so get in the kitchen and give it a try TONIGHT!


And as always...


Happy Eatin' Y'all!

~The Kitchen Wife~


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