Welcome to a Quick and Healthy Dinner!
Hey there! Are you in the mood for a comforting yet healthy dinner option? Let me tell you, this simple one-pan beef and cabbage recipe is an absolute winner. It’s quick to whip up, full of vibrant veggies, and oh-so-delicious! I’ve made this dish countless times, and it never fails to impress. Plus, you’ll love how minimal the cleanup is when it’s all made in just one pan!
Nutritional Benefits of Beef and Cabbage
Not only is this dish simple to prepare, but it’s also packed with nutrients! Cabbage is a fantastic source of vitamins K and C, while ground beef gives you a good dose of protein and iron, keeping you fuller for longer. Carrots add a bit of sweetness, along with beta-carotene, which is great for your eyes. By combining these ingredients, you’re not just enjoying a delicious meal; you’re also fueling your body with major nutrients!
Fun and Adaptable Variations
One of the things I absolutely adore about this recipe is how adaptable it is! If you want to make it vegetarian, simply swap out the ground beef for some plant-based protein like lentils or crumbled tofu. You can also mix in other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added crunch and flavor. If you’re gluten-free, just use tamari instead of soy sauce—it’s a fantastic substitute that maintains the savory flavor!
Simple One-Pan Beef and Cabbage Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (preferably lean)
- 1/2 head green cabbage, chopped
- 1/2 head purple cabbage, chopped
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1 teaspoon sesame oil or red pepper flakes for extra flavor
Serves 4–6 people
Standard portions → 4 servings
Slightly smaller portions → up to 6 servings
Cooking Instructions
- Start by heating a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil, letting it warm up.
- Add the diced onion to the pan and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onions start to turn a lovely translucent color.
- Next, stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional 30 seconds until it becomes aromatic. This is when the kitchen starts to smell amazing!
- Now it’s time for the star of the show—add the ground beef to the pan. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, which will take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat after cooking, feel free to drain it.
- While the beef is cooking, slice your carrots and chop both the green and purple cabbage. This dish is colorful, so don’t be shy!
- Once the beef is cooked, toss in the sliced carrots and cook for another 3 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Now, add in all the chopped cabbage. Stir well to combine everything and let it cook for an additional 5-7 minutes. Give it a stir every now and then until the cabbage is nice and wilted.
- Drizzle soy sauce over the mixture and stir to evenly distribute the flavor. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
- If you’re feeling adventurous, splash a bit of sesame oil or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Remove the pan from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve hot and enjoy your hearty one-pan meal!
Practical Tips for the Best Dish
- If you want to get creative, try adding some ginger with the garlic for a zingy flavor boost!
- Want to prepare this ahead? You can chop your veggies the night before, making dinner prep a breeze.
- This dish makes great leftovers. Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days!
- If you want to reheat the dish, a quick sauté in the pan brings back that fresh flavor!
Equipment Needed
Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need to make this delicious dinner:
- A large skillet or frying pan
- A wooden spatula or spoon for stirring
- A cutting board and knife for prepping your veggies
- A measuring spoon for the soy sauce
- A serving plate to present your meal
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use another type of meat? Yes! Ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully if you’re looking for leaner options.
- How do I prevent the cabbage from getting soggy? Make sure to sauté the mixture just enough to wilt the cabbage without overcooking it.
- Can I make this dairy-free? Absolutely! This recipe is naturally dairy-free, so you’re all set!
- What can I serve this with? It pairs beautifully with rice or quinoa, but you can also enjoy it on its own.
- How do I know when the beef is cooked through? The beef should be browned with no pink remaining when it’s safe to eat.
Let’s Get Cooking!
I hope you give this simple one-pan beef and cabbage a try—it’s really a game-changer! Don’t forget to share your cooking experience with me; I’d love to see how it turns out! If you’re on Pinterest, pin this recipe so you can come back to it later. Happy cooking!
