This simple skillet meal transforms humble ingredients like ground beef, cabbage, and tomato sauce into a hearty, satisfying dish. Think of it as a fuss-free take on classic stuffed cabbage rolls—no rolling, no layering, just bold flavor in one cozy pot.
🕒 Quick Recipe Card
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Dietary Tags: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Low-Carb, High-Protein
🛒 Ingredients
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1 lb lean ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles)
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1 small head green cabbage, chopped (about 4 cups)
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1 small onion, chopped
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1½ cups tomato sauce (low-sodium preferred)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional: 1 tbsp tomato paste for extra richness
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Optional spices: ½ tsp garlic powder, ½ tsp smoked paprika, pinch of red pepper flakes
🔪 Instructions
1️⃣ Brown the Beef
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In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked.
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Drain excess fat if needed. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2️⃣ Add the Onion & Cabbage
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Stir in chopped onion and cabbage.
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Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage starts to soften.
3️⃣ Stir in the Sauce
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Pour in tomato sauce and stir to coat.
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Add optional tomato paste and any spices you like.
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Cover and simmer on low heat for 10–12 minutes, or until cabbage is tender and flavors meld together.
4️⃣ Taste & Serve
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Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or chili flakes if desired.
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Serve warm, topped with fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil if you’re feeling fancy.
💡 Tips & Substitutions
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Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or lentils to lighten it up or make it plant-based.
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Boost flavor: A splash of apple cider vinegar or Worcestershire sauce adds tang.
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Meal prep win: This dish reheats beautifully and tastes even better the next day!
🧊 Storage & Reheating
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Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
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Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
🔎 Nutrition & W-W Points (per serving, serves 4)
Estimated (with lean ground beef):
Calories: ~280 | Protein: ~25g | Carbs: ~12g | Fat: ~15g
W-W Points:
➡️ 6 Points (lean ground beef)
➡️ 4 Points (93% lean ground turkey or tofu crumbles)
✅ Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free Notes
✔️ All ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free and dairy-free.
✔️ Just double-check your tomato sauce to ensure there are no added gluten-containing thickeners.
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I add rice?
A: Yes! Stir in 1 cup of cooked brown rice at the end for a stuffed-cabbage feel. (Adjust W-W points accordingly.)
Q: Is this spicy?
A: Not as written, but you can easily add heat with chili flakes or hot sauce.
Q: Can I make it in a slow cooker?
A: Definitely. Brown the beef first, then cook all ingredients on low for 4–5 hours.
📝 Final Thoughts
This dish is a weeknight lifesaver—flavorful, filling, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re eating low-carb, watching W-W points, or just need a hearty meal fast, this one-pan wonder hits the spot.