Ingredients for Simple One-Pan Beef Cabbage Recipe

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable oil): The foundation for sautéing, ensuring ingredients cook evenly without sticking. Choose a neutral-flavored oil for best results.
• 1.5 pounds lean ground beef (80/20 or 90/10): The star protein of this Simple One-Pan Beef Cabbage Recipe, providing hearty flavor and substance. Opt for lean cuts.
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped: Adds essential aromatic depth and a subtle sweetness when caramelized. Don’t rush sautéing for best flavor.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: A pungent flavor builder, crucial for the savory profile of this dish. Mince finely for even distribution.
• 1 head green cabbage (about 2 pounds), cored and thinly sliced: The essential crisp vegetable, adding texture and freshness to the one-pan meal. Slice thinly for quick cooking.
• 1 large carrot, shredded or thinly sliced: Provides natural sweetness, vibrant color, and extra nutrients. Shred or slice thinly for a delightful crunch.
• 1/2 cup beef broth: Infuses rich, savory liquid, creating a flavorful sauce base. Use low-sodium broth to control saltiness.
• 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred): Delivers umami and salty depth, defining the stir-fry flavor. Low-sodium is always a smart choice.
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds a bright, tangy counterpoint, balancing the richness of the beef. A splash elevates all flavors.
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (packed): Balances the savory and acidic notes, adding a touch of sweetness to the sauce. Pack it well for accurate measure.
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated: Imparts a warm, zesty aroma and a subtle spicy kick. Grate it finely for maximum flavor impact.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances and brings out the natural flavors of all ingredients. Season gradually, tasting as you go.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground): Adds a mild, earthy warmth and a subtle peppery finish. Freshly ground pepper offers superior flavor.
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil: A finishing touch, providing a distinctive nutty aroma and depth. Add at the end for best flavor.
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced: Offers a fresh, mild oniony bite and vibrant color as a garnish. Slice them thinly for a pretty presentation.
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish): Adds a delicate nutty crunch and visual appeal as a final garnish. Lightly toast them for enhanced flavor.

How to Make Simple One-Pan Beef Cabbage Recipe

Prep Veggies:

Begin your Simple One-Pan Beef Cabbage Recipe by prepping all vegetables. Chop the onion, mince garlic, grate fresh ginger, shred the carrot, and thinly slice the cabbage. This initial prep makes cooking a breeze.

Brown Beef:

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat, then stir in chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant.

Add Cabbage & Sauce:

Now, add the thinly sliced cabbage and shredded carrot to the pan. Pour in beef broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, grated ginger, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients for your Simple One-Pan Beef Cabbage Recipe.

Simmer Dish:

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Cover the pan and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender-crisp. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.

Finish Flavors:

Uncover the pan and increase heat slightly to reduce any remaining liquid, if desired. Stir in the toasted sesame oil, allowing its nutty aroma to infuse throughout the Simple One-Pan Beef Cabbage Recipe for a rich finish.

Garnish & Serve:

Remove the pan from heat. Garnish generously with thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve your delicious Simple One-Pan Beef Cabbage Recipe immediately for a satisfying, quick meal.

How to Store Simple One-Pan Beef Cabbage Recipe

Once cooled, store leftover Simple One-Pan Beef Cabbage in an airtight container. Refrigerate promptly for up to 3-4 days to keep it fresh. Don’t leave it out too long; I learned that mistake! Discard if you notice off-smells or a slimy texture, as it’s no longer safe to eat.

For meal prep, chop vegetables like onion, garlic, and cabbage a day ahead, storing them separately in the fridge. Cook the dish fresh for optimal texture and flavor. Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through, being careful not to overcook the cabbage and lose its tender-crispness.

What to Serve with Simple One-Pan Beef Cabbage Recipe

To serve this Simple One-Pan Beef Cabbage, simply dish it hot from the pan for a quick meal. For a more polished presentation, garnish generously with extra green onions and sesame seeds. It’s perfect served alongside a bowl of fluffy white rice, allowing you to enjoy all the savory juices. This dish also pairs wonderfully with a light green salad or a side of crusty bread.

My absolute favorite way to serve this is over warm jasmine rice, often with a drizzle of sriracha for a gentle kick. The rice perfectly soaks up the savory sauce, making for an incredibly satisfying and complete meal that I truly enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef in this Simple One-Pan Beef Cabbage?

Yes, absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works well for a lighter dish. Just ensure you still brown the meat thoroughly for flavor. I often add a pinch more seasoning to chicken to boost its taste.

→ How do I prevent mushy cabbage in my Simple One-Pan Beef Cabbage recipe?

The key is to cook the cabbage until it’s just tender-crisp, not overcooked. Keep an eye on it during simmering and avoid leaving it covered too long. I learned this the hard way with my first soggy attempts!

→ Can I make this Effortless Simple One-Pan Beef Cabbage recipe gluten-free?

Yes, easily! Simply swap out regular soy sauce for a gluten-free tamari. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free. It’s a simple change that makes this delicious meal accessible for everyone without losing flavor.

→ How long can I store leftover Simple One-Pan Beef Cabbage in the fridge?

You can safely store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Always ensure it cools completely before storing. I discard it immediately if it smells off or gets slimy; safety first!

→ Can I make this Simple One-Pan Beef Cabbage ahead or freeze it for later?

While you can prep veggies ahead, I don’t recommend freezing the cooked dish. Cabbage tends to get too soft and watery after thawing, losing its tender-crisp texture. It’s best enjoyed fresh or from the fridge.