Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet 😋


For the Skillet:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
  • 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups shredded cabbage (about half a small head)
  • 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend—see below)
  • 1/2 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot depending on your preference)
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth or water (to help soften the cabbage)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings:

  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Sliced avocado or guacamole
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Lime wedges
  • Hot sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Beef

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes.
  3. Drain excess fat if needed, then stir in the diced onion and cook for another 3–4 minutes until softened.

2. Add the Aromatics and Cabbage

  1. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet, stirring to combine with the beef and onions.
  3. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the mixture and stir to evenly coat.

3. Simmer and Soften

  1. Pour in the salsa and chicken broth (or water). Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  2. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp.

4. Season and Serve

  1. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional taco seasoning if needed.
  2. Remove from heat and serve hot with your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, sour cream, avocado, or fresh cilantro.

Tips for Success

  • Make Your Own Taco Seasoning: Combine 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper for a homemade blend.
  • Add Extra Veggies: Throw in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Use Pre-Shredded Cabbage: Save time by using a bag of pre-shredded coleslaw mix instead of chopping your own cabbage.
  • Spice It Up: Add diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
  • Double the Recipe: This dish reheats beautifully, so make extra for leftovers or meal prep.

Why This Recipe Works

This Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet combines the bold flavors of taco night with the wholesome goodness of cabbage in a single pan. The cabbage softens slightly while still retaining a bit of crunch, providing the perfect texture to hold all the savory, seasoned beef and zesty salsa. It’s a dish that’s hearty enough to satisfy even the heartiest appetites, yet light enough to keep you feeling good after eating it. Plus, the endless topping options mean everyone can customize their bowl to their liking.


Conclusion: A Skillet Full of Taco Magic

Whether you’re serving this Ground Beef Taco Cabbage Skillet as a quick weeknight dinner, a low-carb meal prep option, or a fun twist on taco night, it’s sure to be a hit. Its vibrant flavors, simple preparation, and versatility make it a standout dish that’s as easy to love as it is to make. Plus, its one-pan simplicity means you can spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal.

We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your twist on this taco cabbage skillet might just inspire others to try it too! 🌶️🧀✨