Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet Recipe

The Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet is a one-pan, quick, and easy recipe that brings the bold flavors of tacos into a healthier, low-carb option. By replacing tortillas with cabbage, you can enjoy the satisfying taste of tacos while adding plenty of nutrients. The crisp cabbage cooks down beautifully, absorbing the flavors of the seasoned beef, and creating a delicious, satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.

This dish is not only packed with flavor but also versatile. You can customize the recipe to your liking with different toppings, vegetables, or spice levels. Whether you’re trying to reduce carbs, looking for a quick meal, or simply craving something flavorful, this skillet dish is sure to impress.

How to Make Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet

Making this dish is as simple as it gets. The process involves browning the ground beef, adding in the seasoning and vegetables, and letting everything cook down together. The cabbage becomes tender and absorbs the taco seasoning, creating a deliciously hearty and flavorful meal. Follow the instructions below for a delicious taco-inspired dinner!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Chop the cabbage: Begin by removing the outer leaves from the cabbage. Slice it into quarters and remove the core. Then, slice the cabbage into thin strips or chop it into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
2. Dice the onion and garlic: Peel and dice the onion, then mince the garlic. This will help you add flavor early in the cooking process.
3. Open the canned tomatoes: If using canned tomatoes, drain the juice to avoid excess liquid in the dish. Alternatively, chop up fresh tomatoes.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

1. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it, breaking it up with a wooden spoon or spatula, until browned and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes.
2. Once the beef is browned, drain excess fat if needed. You want the beef to remain flavorful, but excess fat can make the dish greasy.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

1. Add the diced onion to the skillet with the beef, and sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for another 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Spices and Tomatoes

1. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything to coat the beef and onion mixture with the spices.
2. Add the drained canned tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine, and let the mixture cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Cook the Cabbage

1. Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Stir everything together, making sure the cabbage is evenly mixed with the beef and seasonings.
2. Cover the skillet and let the cabbage cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage becomes tender. If you like your cabbage to be a little crisper, cook for a shorter amount of time.
3. If you prefer a bit more liquid in the dish, you can add a splash of water or broth at this point to help the cabbage soften more easily.

Step 6: Final Adjustments

1. Taste the mixture and adjust seasoning if necessary. Add salt, pepper, or extra spices to suit your taste.
2. If you’re adding cheese, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top and let it melt for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Step 7: Serve

1. Spoon the beef and cabbage mixture into bowls and top with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, cilantro, sliced avocado, and lime wedges.

Tips for Success

1. Cabbage Texture: If you prefer softer cabbage, cook it longer. For a firmer, more crisp texture, reduce the cooking time and keep the lid off to allow more evaporation.
2. Season to Taste: Taco seasoning can vary in spiciness, so make sure to taste as you go. If you like more heat, add extra cayenne or chili powder. For a milder version, reduce the amount of chili powder and omit the crushed red pepper flakes.
3. Beef Choices: You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian option.
4. Add Vegetables: If you want to increase the vegetable content, feel free to toss in some bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms. These vegetables will absorb the flavors of the beef and seasoning while adding additional nutrients.
5. Healthy Modifications: If you’re aiming for a lower-fat option, use lean ground beef or swap for ground turkey. For a dairy-free option, skip the cheese topping or use a dairy-free cheese.

Variations and Add-ins

1. Spicy Taco Cabbage Skillet: Add diced jalapeños or extra hot sauce to make this dish spicier.
2. Cheesy Taco Cabbage Skillet: Add a generous layer of melted cheese on top for an extra indulgent dish. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend work wonderfully.
3. Vegetarian Taco Skillet: Swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or extra beans (like black beans or pinto beans) for a vegetarian version of the skillet.

Healthier Modifications

1. Lower-Carb Option: This recipe is already a great low-carb alternative to traditional tacos by using cabbage instead of tortillas. However, if you want to lower your carbs even further, you can omit the tomatoes and use a low-carb salsa or fresh avocado to provide the desired moisture.
2. Add More Veggies: For an even healthier version, include more vegetables, like spinach, kale, or carrots, to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the dish.

How to Store and Reheat

• Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. You can also microwave it in short intervals until heated through.

Meal Prep Options

This skillet dish is perfect for meal prepping. Make a large batch and divide it into individual portions for lunch or dinner throughout the week. You can easily store the beef and cabbage mixture in containers and reheat as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes! You can cook everything ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to eat, simply reheat and add your desired toppings.

Q: Can I freeze this dish? A: Yes, you can freeze the beef and cabbage mixture for up to 3 months. Store it in an airtight container, and when ready to eat, defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Serving Suggestions

1. With a Side Salad: A light green salad with a vinaigrette will complement the richness of the beef and cabbage mixture.
2. Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb alternative to rice, serve this skillet over cauliflower rice.
3. Taco Bowls: For a more traditional taco experience, serve the beef and cabbage in a bowl with your favorite taco toppings.

Creative Ways to Enjoy Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet

The beauty of the Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet lies in its versatility. Here are a few ideas for how to enjoy or serve it in creative ways:

1. Taco Salad Style

Transform your taco skillet into a taco salad by serving the beef and cabbage mixture over a bed of fresh greens. Add some crunchy tortilla chips or low-carb tortilla strips for texture, and drizzle with your favorite salsa or dressing. This is a great option for those looking for a lighter, but equally satisfying meal.

2. Serve with Low-Carb Tortillas

For those who aren’t completely avoiding carbs but want a lighter option than traditional taco shells, consider serving the beef and cabbage mixture in low-carb tortillas. This adds a familiar taco texture and enhances the meal while keeping the overall carb count lower than conventional tortillas.

3. Add Eggs for Breakfast

This taco skillet makes a great breakfast option. Just crack a couple of eggs into the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking and let them cook over the beef and cabbage mixture. The eggs add a creamy, rich texture to the dish, and the flavors complement the savory taco spices perfectly. It’s a great option for a protein-packed breakfast that’s also low-carb.

4. Stuffed Bell Peppers

If you have some bell peppers on hand, try stuffing them with the beef and cabbage mixture. Simply cut the peppers in half and remove the seeds. Fill them with the cooked taco skillet and bake at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until the peppers are tender. This turns the dish into a whole new experience with the sweet, roasted flavor of the peppers complementing the savory beef and cabbage.

Making It Family-Friendly

One of the reasons the Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet is so fantastic is that it can easily be adjusted to meet the needs of a family. Here are a few ways to cater to all ages and tastes:

1. Mild vs. Spicy

If you have kids or family members who aren’t fans of spicy foods, you can adjust the heat level in the dish by reducing or eliminating the chili powder and crushed red pepper flakes. For a more mild version, add sweet bell peppers or a spoonful of sour cream to balance the flavors.

2. Kids’ Version

Serve the beef and cabbage mixture on a bed of rice or inside soft tortillas for a familiar taste. Adding cheese or a bit of ketchup to the mixture can make the dish even more kid-friendly.

3. Taco Toppings Bar

For families or groups with varied tastes, set up a toppings bar. Allow each person to add their favorite taco toppings, such as shredded cheese, lettuce, salsa, guacamole, or even olives. This makes the meal interactive and allows everyone to customize their skillet to their liking.

Entertaining with Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet

This recipe is also perfect for entertaining, particularly for casual gatherings or family dinners. Here’s how you can serve it to guests and keep things fun and interactive:

1. Taco Bar Setup

Transform the meal into a taco bar. Cook the beef and cabbage mixture ahead of time and place it in a large serving bowl or dish. Along with the mixture, offer a variety of toppings such as chopped tomatoes, lettuce, avocado slices, salsa, cheese, sour cream, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime wedges. Guests can then build their own taco bowls or wraps, adding as many or as few toppings as they like.

2. Build Your Own Lettuce Wraps

For a fun twist on traditional tacos, serve the beef and cabbage mixture in large lettuce leaves (like iceberg lettuce or Romaine). This creates a taco-inspired experience that’s low-carb and refreshing. It’s a great option for guests who are gluten-free or following a keto diet.

3. Pairing with Drinks

For drinks, serve chilled margaritas, iced tea, or a Mexican beer like Corona or Modelo. The cool, refreshing beverages will complement the savory and spicy flavors of the taco skillet. For non-alcoholic options, you can also provide sparkling water with a squeeze of lime.

Nutritional Benefits of Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet

This dish is packed with nutritional value, making it a wholesome option for those looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. Here’s a breakdown of some of the key benefits:

1. Protein

Ground beef is a great source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. It also supports immune function and helps keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer.

2. Fiber

Cabbage is a fiber-rich vegetable, contributing to digestive health. Fiber aids in regular bowel movements and can help reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases, such as heart disease and diabetes.

3. Vitamins and Minerals

Cabbage is also rich in vitamin C, an essential nutrient that supports the immune system and promotes skin health. Additionally, it contains vitamin K, which is important for bone health, and folate, which supports red blood cell formation and overall cellular function.

Ground beef provides a source of iron, a mineral that is important for oxygen transport in the blood, and zinc, which supports immune function and tissue healing.

4. Low-Carb and Keto-Friendly

By using cabbage as a base instead of traditional taco shells or tortillas, this dish is naturally low-carb, making it an excellent choice for those following keto or paleo diets. It provides all the delicious taco flavor without the carbs found in flour or corn tortillas.

Making Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet Even Healthier

Here are a few tips if you’d like to make this meal even healthier:

1. Swap to Leaner Meat

To reduce the fat content, consider using lean ground beef (90% lean or higher). Alternatively, ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef for a leaner option. This will lower the fat and calorie content without sacrificing protein.

2. Add More Veggies

Increase the fiber and nutritional content by adding more vegetables to the skillet. Consider adding zucchini, bell peppers, spinach, or kale. These vegetables are low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals.

3. Use a Low-Sodium Taco Seasoning

If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using homemade taco seasoning with no added salt or purchasing a low-sodium taco seasoning. You can adjust the seasoning to taste, ensuring the dish remains flavorful without excessive sodium.

4. Opt for Greek Yogurt

If you’re using sour cream as a topping, swap it for Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt is high in protein and has a creamy texture, making it a healthy alternative to sour cream.

Final Thoughts on Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet

The Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet is an incredibly versatile and delicious dish that can be enjoyed by individuals, families, and guests alike. With its bold flavors and simple ingredients, it’s a great way to enjoy taco-inspired goodness without the carbs and calories of traditional tacos. Plus, the recipe is easily customizable to suit a variety of dietary preferences and tastes.

Whether you serve it in a taco bowl, over rice, or as lettuce wraps, this meal is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s an excellent choice for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or casual entertaining. The combination of tender cabbage, seasoned beef, and your favorite toppings makes every bite full of flavor and satisfaction.

Enjoy experimenting with different toppings, spices, and variations, and don’t be afraid to get creative. The Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet is a canvas for culinary creativity, and it’s sure to please everyone at your table.

The Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet is a delicious, low-carb, and nutritious alternative to traditional tacos. It’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and easily customizable to suit your dietary needs and preferences. Whether you’re looking for a healthier taco night or simply craving a tasty, one-pan meal, this recipe has got you covered. Enjoy it with your favorite toppings and make it your own!

Yield: 4-6

Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet Recipe

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The Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet is a one-pan, quick, and easy recipe that brings the bold flavors of tacos into a healthier, low-carb option. By replacing tortillas with cabbage, you can enjoy the satisfying taste of tacos while adding plenty of nutrients. The crisp cabbage cooks down beautifully, absorbing the flavors of the seasoned beef, and creating a delicious, satisfying meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef (85% lean works well)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 medium head of cabbage, shredded or chopped
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2-3 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
• 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, avocado, cilantro, or lime wedges

Instructions

1. Cook the Ground Beef:
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
   
2. Add Onion and Garlic:
   Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion softens, about 3-4 minutes.
   
3. Add Taco Seasoning and Broth:
   Stir in the taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade) and beef broth. Mix well and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
   
4. Cook the Cabbage:
   Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet. Stir it into the beef mixture and cover the skillet. Cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.
   
5. Season and Serve:
   Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, remove from heat.
   
6. Optional Toppings:
   Serve the taco cabbage skillet with optional toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, avocado, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice.

Notes

Adjusting Heat:
If you prefer a spicier version, feel free to increase the chili powder, cumin, or add extra cayenne pepper. For a milder dish, reduce the chili powder and skip the red pepper flakes.
For an extra kick, consider adding fresh chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce after cooking.

Beef Variations:
While ground beef is the main protein in this dish, you can swap it for leaner alternatives like ground turkey or chicken. Additionally, for a vegetarian option, use plant-based ground meat or beans (like black beans or pinto beans) in place of the beef.

Cabbage Texture:
Cabbage will soften as it cooks, but if you like it a bit firmer and crunchier, reduce the cooking time. For tender, well-cooked cabbage, let it cook for a bit longer under the lid.

Make-Ahead Option:
This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Meal Prep:
The Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet is excellent for meal prep. Portion the beef and cabbage mixture into airtight containers and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months—just defrost and reheat when ready to eat.

Toppings:
Toppings are key to enhancing the flavors. Customize with sour cream (or Greek yogurt), shredded cheese, salsa, avocado, cilantro, lime wedges, or jalapeños for added freshness and flavor.
For a more indulgent twist, top with shredded cheese and let it melt before serving.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or over a bed of mixed greens for a taco salad-style meal. You can also stuff the beef and cabbage mixture into low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps for a healthier, crunchy taco alternative.

Nutritional Information:
This dish is low-carb and keto-friendly, making it an excellent option for those following low-carb, paleo, or keto diets. You can also make it gluten-free by avoiding any wheat-based tortillas.