Cabbage Roll Skillet is one of those meals that can instantly brighten up your weeknight dinners. It’s fantastic because you throw everything into one skillet and let the flavors meld together as it cooks. Picture yourself coming home after a long day, the tantalizing aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this easy, comforting dish. It’s everything you love about traditional cabbage rolls but made simpler and quicker!
Imagine the satisfactions of savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and melted cheese—all in one bowl. Plus, this recipe is loaded with flavor thanks to a few simple spices. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this Cabbage Roll Skillet satisfies. With only a handful of ingredients, it’s also budget-friendly and perfect for any occasion. So, put on your apron, grab your skillet, and let’s start cooking!
Why This Recipe Works
This Cabbage Roll Skillet leverages simple yet flavor-packed ingredients to create a dish that not only satiates but also nourishes. The combination of ground beef, cabbage, and tomatoes offers a wholesome canvas. Meanwhile, the spices infuse warmth and personality, making it a favorite for families. The recipe’s relaxed steps allow you to enjoy the process, transforming ordinary ingredients into something special. Moreover, it balances nutrition and comfort, ensuring everyone at the table leaves happy and full.
Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Roll Skillet
This dish is a game changer for weeknight dinners! It’s quick to prepare, filling, and hits all the right notes for those seeking low-carb alternatives. While it features familiar ingredients, the approach is refreshingly straightforward. The melted cheddar on top brings a comfort food element that even picky eaters will adore. Not only is it a one-pan wonder, but cleanup is also a breeze. So you can spend less time worrying about dishes and more time enjoying family time.

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
Preparing Cabbage Roll Skillet

Browning the Ground Beef
Firstly, grab a large skillet and set it over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add 1 lb of ground beef. Sauté it until browned, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. As it cooks, remember to break it apart with a spatula for even cooking. Afterward, drain any excess fat, but leave a few tablespoons for flavoring your dish.
Sautéing Vegetables
Next, toss in the chopped onion and bell pepper into the skillet. Cook these for about 3-4 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their natural sweetness. This step adds depth to your Cabbage Roll Skillet, setting the stage for the other veggies.
Adding Cabbage and Tomatoes
Now it’s time for the star ingredients! Stir in the chopped cabbage along with the canned diced tomatoes. Sprinkle in all the spices—Tony Chachere’s creole seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix everything well, making sure the flavors blend together beautifully.
Simmering the Skillet
Cover your skillet with a lid. Let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, during which time you should stir occasionally. The objective here is to let the cabbage soften and the flavors meld. You’ll know it’s ready when the cabbage is tender and the dish smells delightful.
Final Touches
Once you’re happy with the tenderness of the cabbage, conduct a taste test. Adjust seasoning as needed, sprinkling a touch more salt or spice if you’d like. Then, generously sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top. Re-cover the skillet and cook until the cheese melts, creating a gooey, irresistible layer.
Serving Your Dish
Serve your Cabbage Roll Skillet warm, either on its own or paired with rice for those who aren’t following a keto diet. The choice is yours! This flexibility adds to the dish’s appeal, making it perfect for various tastes.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy this Cabbage Roll Skillet on its own or with a side of fluffy rice or crusty bread. Add a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. A splash of vinegar-based dressing on the salad complements the hearty skillet beautifully, cutting through the richness.
Tips for Success
- Prep Ahead: To save time, prep your veggies ahead of time. Chopping the cabbage, onions, and bell peppers in advance makes weeknight cooking much smoother.
- Choose Lean Beef: Consider using lean ground beef for a healthier option. This helps cut down on the fat without sacrificing taste.
- Spice It Up: If you like a kick, adjust the spice level by adding your favorite hot sauce or chili flakes, which can knock the flavor up a notch.
Variations
- If you’re looking for a lighter protein option, substitute ground turkey or chicken. They work wonderfully and will keep the dish satisfying.
- Incorporate other vegetables like carrots or zucchini for added nutrition. These veggies blend well and pack in more vitamins!
- For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with lentils or mushrooms. Both options would make a hearty, flavorful dish while keeping the essence of Cabbage Roll Skillet intact.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving. This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop!

FAQs
What can I serve with Cabbage Roll Skillet?
Serve it with rice, crusty bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the dish and store it in the fridge, then simply reheat when ready to serve.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all ingredients used are gluten-free, making it perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s in an airtight container to maintain the best quality.
What can I substitute for ground beef?
Ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative would work well. Each brings a unique flavor to the skillet!
This Cabbage Roll Skillet is not only a family-friendly dish, but it’s also bursting with flavors that make it a dinner staple. The use of wholesome ingredients paired with comforting cheese creates a delightful meal that is both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re looking to maintain a low-carb lifestyle or simply want a hearty dish, this skillet delivers every time. Enjoy the warm embrace of this dish whether it’s a chilly weeknight or a busy weekend dinner.
Print
Cabbage Roll Skillet
This Cabbage Roll Skillet brings together savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and melted cheddar in a quick, one-pan dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
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
- Brown the ground beef in a large skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes.
- Add chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in chopped cabbage and canned diced tomatoes, then add spices.
- Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, then top with cheddar cheese and let melt.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Prepare vegetables ahead of time to speed up cooking.
Lean ground beef can be used for a healthier option.
Adjust spices according to your heat preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 30
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Unsaturated Fat: 15
- Trans Fat: 1
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 30
- Cholesterol: 85