Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet

This hearty ground beef taco cabbage skillet has become my weeknight dinner savior when I need something satisfying yet simple. The combination of seasoned beef, tender-crisp cabbage, and melty cheese creates a comforting one-pan meal that satisfies taco cravings without the carbs.

I first created this recipe during a busy week when I needed to use up extra cabbage from my CSA box. My family was skeptical at first, but it's now in our regular rotation because it's so flavorful and filling without weighing us down.

Ingredients

• 450 g lean ground beef: This provides protein and savory flavor. Choose 85-90% lean for best flavor without excess grease.
• 5 cups green cabbage: Adds volume, nutrients and a slight sweetness when cooked. Look for firm heads with crisp leaves.
• 60 ml low carb taco seasoning: Creates authentic taco flavor throughout the dish. Homemade or store-bought both work well.
• 1 tablespoon dried minced onion: Adds convenience and concentrated flavor without prep work. Make sure it's fresh for best taste.
• 60 ml water: Helps steam the cabbage and distribute the seasonings evenly.
• 150 g cheddar cheese: Provides creamy richness and holds everything together. Sharp cheddar adds the most flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Brown the Beef:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon until completely browned with no pink remaining, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat to prevent the dish from becoming greasy.

Add Cabbage and Seasonings:

Stir in the shredded cabbage, taco seasoning, dried minced onion, and water. The pan will look very full at first, but the cabbage will cook down quickly. Stir regularly to ensure even cooking and prevent burning. Cook until cabbage is crisp-tender but not mushy, approximately 5–7 minutes.

Melt the Cheese:

Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the entire cabbage and beef mixture, creating a cheesy blanket. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap heat and help the cheese melt completely, about 5–10 minutes. The steam will also finish cooking the cabbage to perfect tenderness.

Serve:

Remove from heat once cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Serve immediately while hot and cheese is at its creamiest texture.

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The taco seasoning is truly the star ingredient here. I've found that making a big batch of homemade seasoning gives me better control over sodium and eliminates preservatives, plus the flavors taste more vibrant than packaged versions.

Serving Suggestions

This skillet meal is delicious on its own, but you can take it to the next level with toppings. Fresh diced avocado, a dollop of sour cream, sliced jalapeños, and chopped cilantro all make wonderful additions. I serve this family-style right from the skillet, letting everyone customize their own portion with their favorite toppings.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly flexible. Ground turkey or chicken can replace beef for a lighter option. Red cabbage works beautifully instead of green for a colorful twist with slightly different flavor. For dairy-free needs, skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative. You can also add a can of drained black beans or corn kernels if you want to stretch the meal further or aren't strictly following a low-carb approach.

Storage Tips

This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. The cabbage maintains its texture well without becoming soggy, unlike many other vegetable-based dishes that can deteriorate when stored.

Common Queries

→ Can I swap ground beef for another protein?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef for a lighter alternative while maintaining flavor with taco seasoning.

→ Is this dish suitable for a low-carb diet?

Absolutely. Using cabbage instead of tortillas keeps the carbohydrate content low while providing a filling meal.

→ How do I know when the cabbage is cooked just right?

Cook until the cabbage is crisp-tender; it should be softened yet still offer a slight bite for texture.

→ What cheese works best for topping?

Cheddar is recommended for melt and flavor, but Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend can also be delicious substitutions.

→ How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Stir in diced bell peppers or zucchini with the cabbage for added nutrients and color.

→ Can leftovers be stored and reheated?

Yes, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stove or microwave.