Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience with our Cabbage Roll Skillet! This dish is flavorful, hearty, and oh-so-juicy, making it the perfect one-pan meal for busy weeknights. Did you know that cabbage rolls date back centuries? Traditionally, they are filled with meat and rice, wrapped lovingly in cabbage leaves. This skillet version takes that classic comfort food and simplifies it beautifully—no rolling required! It’s a family favorite at my table, often served with warm bread and smiles. If you love one-pot wonders like our Easy Beef Stroganoff, you’re in for a treat! Dive in and discover why this dish should find a permanent spot in your recipe collection.
What is Cabbage Roll Skillet?
So, what exactly is a Cabbage Roll Skillet? Well, it’s the delicious love child of comfort food and convenience! Imagine all the tasty components of traditional cabbage rolls, but without the fuss of rolling each one individually. You might ask yourself, “Why should I be excited about a skillet?” Well, as they say, “The way to a man’s heart is through his stomach!” So, why not dish out something heartwarming and satisfying? This recipe combines savory ground beef, fresh veggies, and an explosion of flavor in a single skillet. Are you ready to give it a try?
Why You’ll Love This
When it comes to hearty home-cooked meals, Cabbage Roll Skillet is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s packed with every family favorite ingredient: succulent ground beef, tender cabbage, and a medley of spices that kick things up a notch. Plus, making it at home is a great way to keep costs low while serving a meal that feels fancy. You’ll also love how the melting cheddar cheese on top elevates this dish to another level! It’s quite similar to our classic Stuffed Pepper Casserole but has a unique twist with the cabbage. Why not gather your loved ones and whip this up together? You won’t be disappointed!
How to Make
Quick Overview
Cabbage Roll Skillet is easy, delicious, and super satisfying, making it the perfect dinner choice for busy evenings. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and cooking time of around 30 minutes, you can have this dish on the table in less than an hour! Its standout feature is the delightful combination of flavors and textures that come together in one pan, offering simplicity without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small head of cabbage, cored and chopped
- 1 14 oz can diced tomatoes
- 2 teaspoons Tony Chacheres Creole seasoning
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Step-by-Step
- In a large skillet, heat your stovetop over medium heat and brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become tender.
- Stir in the chopped cabbage, mixing it thoroughly with the meat and vegetables. Cook until the cabbage wilts, about 5 minutes.
- Add the can of diced tomatoes along with the Creole seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for about 10-15 minutes until all the flavors meld together and the cabbage is tender.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top, cover the skillet, and let it sit until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve hot and enjoy your comforting meal!
What to Serve Cabbage Roll Skillet With
For a delightful balance of flavors, pair your Cabbage Roll Skillet with a fresh side salad or some warm, crusty bread. A dollop of sour cream also adds a nice touch, enhancing the flavors beautifully. For drinks, consider serving it with a chilled glass of iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing twist!
Top Tips for Perfecting
- Ingredient substitutions: Feel free to swap out beef for turkey or even plant-based meat to cater to dietary preferences.
- Timing adjustments: If you’re short on time, prepare the ingredients the night before. Simply sauté in the morning to save time.
- Common mistakes to avoid: Avoid overcooking the cabbage; you want it tender but not mushy.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze this dish for up to three months. When reheating, simply microwave individual portions until heated through, or warm it in a skillet on low heat to maintain quality.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cabbage or vegetables?
Yes, you can! Just follow the cooking instructions; it may take a little longer to cook through.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a tasty vegetarian version.
How do I make this spicier?
Adding jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper will give it a nice kick!
Conclusion
With all its comforting flavors and easy preparation, Cabbage Roll Skillet is bound to become a staple in your home! Not only does it satisfy the whole family, but it also makes meal prep a breeze. Gather the ingredients and experience the joy of cooking this delightful dish tonight—you won’t regret it!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small head of cabbage, cored and chopped
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp Tony Chachere's Creole seasoning
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until tender.
- Stir in chopped cabbage and cook for 5 minutes until it begins to wilt.
- Add diced tomatoes, Creole seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Simmer for 10–15 minutes until cabbage is tender and flavors are well combined.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese, cover, and let melt before serving.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms. Add jalapeños or cayenne for a spicy kick!
