Last Updated on July 12, 2025 by Lucas
Craving a quick, hearty dinner that’s big on flavor but light on effort? This hamburger cabbage skillet is your go-to 50-minute comfort recipe—packed with savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and bold seasoning. Whether you’re chasing a low-carb meal or just need a satisfying weeknight fix, this one-skillet wonder delivers. Ready to turn a few simple ingredients into something amazing? Let’s dive in.
Hamburger Cabbage: Amazing 50-Minute Comfort Recipe
Equipment
- Large skillet or heavy-bottomed pan
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Cutting board and sharp knife
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g ground beef
- 1 medium head of cabbage chopped
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 bell pepper diced
- Optional: 1 teaspoon paprika
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes for heat
Instructions
- Sauté Onion and Garlic:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
- Brown Ground Beef:
- Add ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add Cabbage and Seasonings:
- Stir in chopped cabbage, bell pepper (if using), paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until cabbage begins to soften, about 5 minutes.
- Simmer:
- Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for an additional 10–15 minutes, or until cabbage is tender and flavors are well combined.
- Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot as a standalone meal or with your choice of sides.
Video
Notes
- Calories: 249 kcal
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 17g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Net Carbs: 4g
- Sodium: 75mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Key Benefits of This Quick Hamburger Cabbage Recipe
Looking for a meal that’s quick, comforting, and packed with flavor? This hamburger cabbage recipe is your answer. It’s a one-skillet wonder that delivers on taste and convenience.
Hearty and Satisfying in Just 50 Minutes
Pressed for time? This dish comes together in just 50 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of ground beef and cabbage creates a hearty meal that satisfies without the wait.
Low-Carb and Gluten-Free Friendly
Ideal for those following keto or gluten-free diets, this recipe is naturally low in carbs and free from gluten. The cabbage provides fiber and nutrients without the extra carbs. It’s a great option for clean, simple eating.
One-Skillet Wonder = Fewer Dishes
Cooking everything in one skillet means less cleanup for you. The simplicity of the recipe doesn’t just save time in cooking but also in washing up afterward.
Family-Friendly and Budget-Conscious
This recipe stretches a pound of ground beef to feed the whole family, making it a budget-friendly choice. It’s a great way to add vegetables to ground beef and is perfect for feeding a family without breaking the bank.
Whether you’re looking for a quick comfort meal, a low-carb option, or a budget-friendly family dinner, this hamburger cabbage recipe checks all the boxes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you’ll use in this flavorful hamburger cabbage skillet. I’ve organized it for clarity, so you can prep like a pro:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
| Ground beef | 1 lb (450 g) | Lean or regular, based on preference |
| Cabbage | ½ head (~4 cups) | Thinly sliced |
| Onion | 1 medium | Diced for sweetness |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced for fresh flavor |
| Olive oil | 1 Tbsp | For sautéing |
| Black pepper | ¼ tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Paprika | ½ tsp | Adds warmth |
| Salt | ½ tsp | To taste |
| Chili flakes | A pinch | Optional, for a spicy kick |
Ingredient Checklist
Optional add‑ins for extra flavor:
- Bell peppers (½ cup, diced)
- Shredded carrots (½ cup)
- Low-sodium soy sauce (1–2 tsp)
Why these ingredients?
- Simple pantry staples: Ground beef, cabbage, onion, garlic, olive oil. This builds a hearty, low-carb comfort food base.
- Optional add‑ins: Bell peppers and carrots bring color and texture; soy sauce adds savory depth.
- Seasoning suggestions: Basic spices keep it straightforward, while chili flakes offer optional heat.
With these ingredients prepped and on hand, you’re set to make a delicious hamburger cabbage skillet dinner that’s quick, budget‑friendly, and full of flavor. Next up: let’s cook.
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Hamburger Cabbage
Here’s your friendly guide to making this hearty hamburger cabbage meal—a delicious cabbage skillet you’ll want on repeat.
1. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
- Start with a cold pan and add olive oil. Warm gently—this helps avoid burnt garlic and brings out flavor .
- Add diced onion first. Sauté over medium heat for about 3–5 minutes until it softens and sweetens .
- Then stir in minced garlic, cooking for around 30 seconds until fragrant. This timing keeps it from turning bitter .
2. Brown the Ground Beef
- Increase heat to medium-high.
- Add ground beef, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks.
- Cook until no pink remains, about 5–7 minutes. This builds rich flavor and ensures a moist skillet meal.
3. Add Cabbage and Spices
- Add thinly sliced cabbage and season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and a pinch of chili flakes.
- Stir well so the cabbage absorbs the savory beef juices.
- If using bell peppers or carrots, add them now for extra color and texture.
4. Simmer Until Tender
- Lower the heat to medium-low and cover the skillet.
- Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- When cabbage is tender but still holds its shape, you’re done.
- Taste and adjust seasoning—add salt or a few extra chili flakes if needed.
Pro Tips
- Prep first: Chop everything before cooking. This pauses the process and keeps you organized.
- Watch the moisture: If the pan becomes watery, remove the lid near the end to let excess steam escape.
- Customize freely: For a spicy kick, mix in hot sauce. To stretch the meal affordably, serve it over rice or mashed potatoes.
This method gives you a balanced, flavorful, and easy cabbage skillet meal with minimal fuss. It’s a great example of a ground beef cabbage sauté done right—and it’s ready in about 50 minutes. Go ahead—give it a try, and let me know how yours turned out.
Pro Tips and Flavor Variations
Here are some friendly tips and easy tweaks to elevate your hamburger cabbage skillet, turning it into a customizable meal you’ll love:
Add Heat with Red Pepper Flakes or Hot Sauce
- Stir in ¼–½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes when you add the spices.
- Or drizzle in a bit of your favorite hot sauce just before serving.
This simple kick warms up the flavors without overpowering the dish.
Swap in Ground Turkey or Chicken
- Use 1 lb (450 g) lean ground turkey or chicken in place of beef.
- They cook up just as nicely and pair beautifully with cabbage.
This is a leaner protein option while keeping the hearty feel of the meal.
Make It Cheesy
- When the cabbage is tender, sprinkle ½ cup shredded cheddar over the top.
- Cover the skillet for a minute so cheese melts into gooey deliciousness.
This cheesy upgrade adds richness and comfort to every bite.
Add Rice or Potatoes for a Hearty Twist
- Stir in 1 cup cooked rice, or serve the skillet over a scoop of mashed potatoes.
- You can also dice and lightly pan-fry 1 cup of potatoes alongside the beef.
This turns your dish into a full-bodied meal that’s extra filling.
Why These Tweaks Work
- Cabbage stir-fry with hamburger is naturally versatile—these variations simply lean into that flexibility.
- Beef and cabbage hash becomes more comforting with cheese or carbs.
- Great when you need a customizable meal to fit different tastes and appetites.
Bonus Flavor Tip
Boost nutrition and add crunch by topping your finished skillet with fresh chopped parsley or green onions.
And remember: cabbage is a powerhouse veggie—it’s low in calories, high in fiber and vitamin C, and supports gut and heart health [1].
Mix and match these variations to make this dish uniquely yours. And if you try something extra delicious, I’d love to hear about it—don’t hesitate to leave a comment below.
Serving Suggestions for Hamburger Cabbage
Here are some warm, practical ideas to enjoy your hamburger cabbage skillet in different ways—each designed to keep your meals satisfying and versatile.
As a Standalone Skillet Meal
Enjoy the dish right from the pan.
It’s a balanced, low‑carb recipe that’s rich in protein and nutrients—perfect for a quick lunch or dinner when you want simplicity without sacrificing taste.
Serve with Mashed Potatoes or Rice
- Spoon your hamburger cabbage over fluffy mashed potatoes or a bed of rice.
- This classic combo transforms it into a comforting, hearty plate—great for satisfying the whole family.
Pair with a Side Salad or Cornbread
- A crisp green salad adds a fresh, crunchy contrast.
- Or serve with a slice of warm cornbread to make your meal feel more rustic and cozy.
Great for Meal Prep
- This dish stores beautifully for 3–4 days in the fridge.
- Portion out meals at the start of the week, and enjoy a quick reheat for lunch or dinner—easy, nourishing, and no-fuss.
Why Cabbage Works so Well
- It’s packed with vitamin C, vitamin K, fiber, and antioxidants—even when cooked—making it a nutrient powerhouse [2].
- Cabbage supports gut health and helps balance blood sugar, thanks to its fiber and low-calorie nature [3].
These serving suggestions help you enjoy your hamburger cabbage in ways that suit different occasions. Whether you’re meal‑prepping or simply want comfort food, this versatile dish has your back. Now, let these ideas inspire your table—and feel free to share your favorite combo in the comments.
Conclusion
This Hamburger Cabbage skillet is a weeknight hero—quick, comforting, and easy on the wallet. With its hearty blend of ground beef and cabbage, it’s a satisfying low-carb meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this dish has you covered. Its versatility invites you to add your personal touch—be it a sprinkle of cheese, a dash of hot sauce, or a side of rice. Give it a try and let us know how you make it your own in the comments below.
FAQs
Can I freeze hamburger cabbage?
Yes, you can freeze hamburger cabbage. However, because cabbage has a high water content, it may lose some texture upon thawing. To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When reheating, note that the cabbage may become softer than when freshly cooked .
What type of cabbage works best?
Green cabbage is ideal for this dish due to its sturdy texture and mild flavor. It’s versatile and holds up well during cooking. Red cabbage can also be used, adding a pop of color and a slightly peppery taste. Napa cabbage, with its tender leaves, is best suited for quick stir-fries or raw applications .
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based alternatives like lentils, tempeh, or tofu. These options provide a hearty texture and absorb the flavors of the seasonings well .
How do I keep the cabbage from turning soggy?
To prevent soggy cabbage, salt it before cooking. Toss the chopped cabbage with salt and let it sit for 10–15 minutes. This process draws out excess moisture. Afterward, drain and pat it dry with a paper towel to remove the released water .
Is this dish good for keto diets?
Yes, this hamburger cabbage dish is keto-friendly. Cabbage is low in carbohydrates, making it an excellent substitute for higher-carb vegetables. Combined with ground beef, it’s a satisfying meal that fits well within a ketogenic diet .
3 thoughts on “Hamburger Cabbage: Amazing 50-Minute Comfort Recipe”