Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: the ground beef taco cabbage skillet! Seriously, this dish is a lifesaver for busy families. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a delicious, hearty meal that everyone will love. I mean, who doesn’t appreciate a one-pan dinner that’s as easy to make as it is to clean up? Plus, the flavors of savory beef, fresh cabbage, and zesty taco seasoning come together in such a comforting way. Trust me, this is one recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket for those hectic evenings!
Ingredients List
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese (your favorite kind!)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
First things first, let’s get that ground beef browning! In a large skillet, heat up some oil over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, add the ground beef. You’ll want to cook it for about 5-7 minutes. Just keep an eye on it and stir occasionally until it’s all browned and no longer pink. It should look deliciously golden and crumbly! If you notice any excess grease, feel free to drain it off before moving on.
Step 2: Add Onions and Garlic
Now, it’s time to add in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Toss them right into the skillet with that browned beef. Cook everything together for about 3-4 minutes, stirring often. You’ll know they’re ready when the onions become translucent and start to smell amazing—trust me, it’s heavenly!
Step 3: Incorporate Cabbage
Next, let’s get that chopped cabbage in the mix! Stir it into the skillet and let it cook for about 5 minutes. You want it to start softening up but still have a little crunch left. Just keep stirring it around so it gets coated with all those yummy flavors.
Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Seasoning
Now it’s time to add the can of diced tomatoes along with that taco seasoning packet. Pour them in and give everything a good mix! Make sure the seasoning gets evenly distributed throughout the mixture. This is where all the magic happens, and the flavors really start to come together.
Step 5: Simmer the Mixture
Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This is a great time to set the table or whip up some toppings! Don’t forget to stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom. You want that cabbage to get tender and soak up all the delicious flavors.
Step 6: Melt the Cheese
Once the cabbage is nice and tender, it’s time for the best part—cheese! Sprinkle your shredded cheese on top of the mixture. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Oh wow, just wait till you see that gooey goodness!
Step 7: Season and Serve
Before you dig in, give your skillet a taste and add salt and pepper as needed. It’s all about that perfect balance! Serve hot, and watch how quickly this dish disappears. Enjoy every savory bite!
Tips for Success
To make sure your ground beef taco cabbage skillet turns out perfectly, here are a few handy tips! First, using lean ground beef is a great way to keep it healthier and reduce excess grease. If you want to jazz it up, feel free to throw in extra veggies like bell peppers or corn—they add a nice crunch and flavor! Also, don’t hesitate to adjust the taco seasoning to match your taste; if you like it spicy, go for a little extra! Lastly, always taste before serving; a pinch of salt and pepper can elevate the dish beautifully. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information Section
When it comes to nutrition, it’s always good to keep in mind that values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. So, while I can’t give you an exact number, here’s a general idea of what you can expect with this ground beef taco cabbage skillet:
- Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
- Fat: About 20g
- Protein: Roughly 25g
- Carbohydrates: Around 15g
Always remember to check labels for more precise information based on what you’re using, and feel free to adjust the recipe to fit your dietary needs! Enjoy your delicious and nourishing meal!
FAQ Section
Can I use turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic substitute if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit drier than beef, so adding a splash of chicken broth or a little extra seasoning can help keep it flavorful and moist. Cook it just like the beef, and you’ll have a delicious dish that’s just as satisfying!
What other vegetables can I add?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! You can definitely add in bell peppers, corn, or even zucchini for an extra veggie boost. Just chop them up and toss them in with the cabbage. Each vegetable adds its own unique flavor and texture, making the dish even more colorful and nutritious. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to get more greens on the table!
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers? Yes, please! To keep your ground beef taco cabbage skillet fresh, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until it’s heated through. Trust me, it tastes just as good the next day!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- One-pan meal means less cleanup, which is always a win in my book.
- Loaded with flavor from the taco seasoning and fresh ingredients.
- Healthy option packed with protein and veggies, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
- Versatile—feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or additional vegetables.
- Great for meal prep; leftovers taste even better the next day!

Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet in 30 Minutes of Joy
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A quick and easy ground beef taco cabbage skillet recipe for a delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is soft.
- Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for about 5 minutes until it starts to soften.
- Add the can of diced tomatoes and taco seasoning. Mix well.
- Cover and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the cabbage is tender, sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Cover again until the cheese melts.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or corn.
- Adjust taco seasoning based on your spice preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: ground beef taco cabbage skillet