Taco Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Meal – Quick & Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe

Are you looking for a quick, flavorful, and nutritious dinner that won’t take hours in the kitchen? The Taco Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Meal is a perfect solution! This recipe combines the rich taste of seasoned ground beef with the freshness of cabbage, all topped off with gooey cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of green onions. Whether you’re feeding a family or just looking for a simple dish to enjoy, this meal is versatile, hearty, and guaranteed to satisfy.

Let’s dive in and explore everything you need to know about this delicious skillet meal—from the ingredients to the step-by-step directions, plus some tips on how to make it even better.

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Why You’ll Love This Taco Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Meal

When you’re craving a filling and tasty meal, this Taco Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Meal will check all the boxes. Not only is it quick to make, but it’s also full of bold flavors, including chili powder and salsa, making it a great way to spice up your dinner routine. This recipe is also super customizable, so you can easily swap in different ingredients based on what you have on hand.

Plus, the combination of cabbage and ground beef is a nutritious twist on traditional taco fillings. You get a healthy dose of fiber and vitamins from the cabbage, while the ground beef provides the protein your body needs. With only a few ingredients, this dish is both affordable and packed with flavor!

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Ingredients for Taco Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Meal

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following ingredients ready to go:

• 1 lb ground beef – Choose lean ground beef for a lighter option or go for a richer flavor with regular ground beef.
• 1 tsp chili powder – This adds a smoky, spicy kick to your dish.
• ½ cup salsa – Pick your favorite salsa (mild, medium, or spicy) to control the heat level of your meal.
• 2–3 cups chopped cabbage – Fresh cabbage adds crunch and a slightly sweet flavor that balances out the spice.
• ¾ cup shredded cheddar cheese – This melts beautifully on top, adding a creamy, cheesy finish to your dish.
• Chopped green onions – For garnish, providing a fresh, zesty bite.

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Directions for Taco Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Meal

1. Cook the Beef:

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, start by browning the ground beef. Stir occasionally to break up the beef as it cooks. Once fully cooked, drain any excess grease. This step ensures your meal won’t be greasy and allows the flavors to come through without being weighed down.

2. Add Flavor:

Now, it’s time to add a punch of flavor. Stir in chili powder and salsa. Mix well to coat the beef evenly. The salsa adds moisture and a tangy kick, while the chili powder gives the beef that unmistakable taco seasoning flavor. This step really enhances the overall taste of your dish, making every bite full of zest.

3. Add Cabbage:

Next, add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Stir everything together so the cabbage starts to cook in the flavorful beef mixture. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to medium. Let it cook for about 10 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized. The cabbage softens while absorbing the rich flavors of the beef, creating a satisfying texture.

4. Add Cheese:

Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, remove the lid and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Lower the heat and let it melt, turning the dish into a creamy, cheesy masterpiece. The cheese will create a luscious layer on top of the cabbage, grounding the flavors and adding a deliciously creamy texture.

5. Garnish and Serve:

Once the cheese is fully melted, remove the skillet from the heat and garnish with chopped green onions. The fresh green onions add a pop of color and a hint of freshness that brightens up the dish. Serve your Taco Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Meal hot, either on its own or over a bed of rice for an even heartier meal.

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Tips for the Best Taco Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Meal

• Customize the Cheese: While cheddar cheese works wonderfully in this recipe, feel free to try other types of cheese like Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend for different flavors.
• Make It Spicy: If you prefer extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the salsa before mixing it in. You can also use spicy salsa to amp up the spice level.
• Swap the Meat: Want to make this dish a bit leaner? Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. You’ll still get a delicious result, and it’s a great option for a lower-fat meal.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables to the skillet to make the dish even more nutritious. Bell peppers, zucchini, or tomatoes would all be excellent additions.
• Serve Over Rice or Cauliflower Rice: If you want to stretch the meal further, serve the beef and cabbage over rice (white or brown) or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

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How to Serve Taco Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Meal

This skillet meal is incredibly versatile, and you can serve it in several ways. Here are a few ideas:

• Tacos: For a twist on traditional tacos, serve the beef and cabbage mixture in soft or hard taco shells. Add your favorite toppings like sour cream, avocado, and salsa for a fun and easy taco night.
• Over Rice: As mentioned, this meal pairs beautifully with rice. It can be served over white, brown, or even cauliflower rice for a healthier alternative.
• With Tortillas: You can also serve this skillet meal with warm tortillas on the side. This gives you the option to scoop up the beef and cabbage mixture or make wraps.

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Nutritional Benefits of Taco Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Meal

Not only is this dish flavorful, but it’s also nutritious. Here’s a breakdown of the key health benefits:

• Ground Beef: Packed with protein, ground beef helps to build and repair muscle tissue. It’s also rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
• Cabbage: Low in calories but high in fiber, cabbage is great for digestive health. It’s also a good source of vitamin C, which supports your immune system and skin health.
• Cheddar Cheese: While cheese adds a creamy texture to this meal, it also provides calcium and vitamin D, both important for strong bones and teeth.

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FAQs about Taco Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Meal

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative if you prefer a lighter or vegetarian option.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This meal can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the skillet or microwave for a quick and easy meal.

3. How can I make this dish spicier?
If you love spice, try adding chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy salsa to the recipe for an extra kick. You can also sprinkle chili flakes or cayenne pepper on top before serving.

4. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to swap out cheddar for other cheeses such as Monterey Jack, Mexican blend, or even mozzarella. Each will offer a slightly different flavor.

5. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This Taco Ground Beef and Cabbage Skillet Meal is the ultimate weeknight dinner—simple, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy, hearty meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re craving a quick dinner for your family or need an easy meal prep idea, this recipe checks all the boxes. Try it out today, and don’t forget to customize it with your favorite toppings or ingredients to make it your own!

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