Name: Cabbage Roll Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
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

Cabbage Roll Skillet is a hearty, one-pan dinner that captures the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls, without the hassle of rolling. Loaded with ground beef, tender cabbage, bell pepper, diced tomatoes, and savory spices, this cheesy skillet meal is perfect for busy weeknights. Everything comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to for both convenience and flavor.

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

Step 1:

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat.

Step 2:

Stir in chopped onion and bell pepper. Cook for 3–4 minutes, until vegetables are softened.

Step 3:

Add chopped cabbage and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage starts to wilt.

Step 4:

Stir in diced tomatoes, Creole seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Mix well and simmer for 5 minutes.

Step 5:

Sprinkle cheddar cheese evenly over the top. Cover and cook for 3–5 more minutes, until the cheese melts and bubbles.

Step 6:

Serve hot and enjoy this easy one-pan comfort meal!

Variations

Add rice for a more traditional cabbage roll flavor and extra heartiness.
Make it spicy with diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes.
Use ground turkey for a leaner version with the same great taste.
Try mozzarella or pepper jack instead of cheddar for different cheesy finishes.

Cooking Notes

Tony Chachere’s Creole seasoning adds a savory, spicy kick. Adjust the quantity to taste or substitute with Cajun seasoning.
Letting the dish simmer after adding spices allows the cabbage to fully absorb flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve it over steamed rice or mashed potatoes for a filling dinner.
A side of cornbread or garlic toast complements it perfectly.

Tips

Meal prep friendly: Reheats well for lunches throughout the week.
Cabbage shrinks: Don’t worry if the skillet looks full at first—it’ll cook down as it softens.
One skillet = easy cleanup.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cooking Time:

25 minutes

Total Time:

35 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 390
Protein: 27g
Sodium: 680mg

FAQs

1. Can I freeze Cabbage Roll Skillet?
Yes, it freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

2. What kind of cabbage is best for this recipe?
Green cabbage is the go-to, but savoy cabbage cooks faster and is more tender. Napa cabbage is also great if you prefer a milder taste.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! Make it up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. For best texture, wait to add the cheese until reheating.

4. How can I make this recipe healthier?
Use lean ground beef or ground turkey. You can also reduce the cheese or choose low-fat options. For fewer carbs, use fresh tomatoes and skip heavy sides.

5. Is it necessary to use Creole seasoning?
Not at all. You can swap it with Cajun seasoning or make your own blend using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and cayenne pepper.

This Cabbage Roll Skillet recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy all the comforting, savory flavors of classic cabbage rolls without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s quick, satisfying, and family-friendly, making it a perfect go-to meal for any night of the week. Whether you’re trying to stretch a budget, use up veggies, or just want something hearty and cheesy, this one-pan wonder delivers on all fronts. With endless ways to customize it, you’ll find yourself making it again and again, always a little different and always delicious.

Cabbage Roll Skillet

Author: Imili Johnson
Total Time: 35 minutes

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