Name: Cabbage Roll Skillet (Easy Keto Ground Beef Dinner Recipe) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
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

I absolutely love sharing this Cabbage Roll Skillet (Easy Keto Ground Beef Dinner Recipe) Recipe because it combines everything I want in a meal: comfort, flavor, and simplicity. This dish takes the classic flavors of cabbage rolls, but skips the fuss for a fast, one-pan dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family meals. I adore how the savory ground beef mingles with tender cabbage and a touch of spice, all topped with gooey melted cheddar cheese. It’s a dish that feels both wholesome and indulgent without the carbs, making it one of my favorite easy keto dinners to whip up again and again.

Why You'll Love This Cabbage Roll Skillet (Easy Keto Ground Beef Dinner Recipe) Recipe

From the first time I made this recipe, I was hooked by the irresistible flavor profile. The combination of seasoned ground beef, cabbage, and just the right touch of creole seasoning creates a perfect balance of smoky, savory, and slightly tangy notes. That warm, comforting flavor instantly reminds me of traditional cabbage rolls but with so much less effort and without the need to wrap each roll individually.

I am also a big fan of how incredibly easy this recipe is to prepare. It’s truly a one-skillet wonder that saves me time on washing dishes and keeps things simple in the kitchen. Brown the beef, toss in veggies and spices, let it simmer, then finish with cheese — that’s it! No complex techniques or waiting hours for the flavors to develop. The lid-covered cooking locks in moisture and tenderness, making the cabbage melt-in-your-mouth delicious.

What makes this dish stand out to me is how versatile it is. I like serving it during busy weeknights when I want to get something tasty on the table fast, but also for casual gatherings when I want a crowd-pleaser everyone enjoys. And for anyone who isn’t following keto, adding rice on the side is a lovely way to make it more kid-friendly without sacrificing flavor. It’s a real crowd-pleaser that feels special yet is straightforward to make.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows a large black pan filled with cooked ground meat mixed with diced vegetables including red, yellow, and green bell peppers, as well as small chunks of white onion. The ingredients are evenly spread in one visible layer inside the pan. The pan rests on a white marbled surface. The colors of the vegetables stand out vividly against the brown meat, creating a colorful and textured mix. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

I've kept the ingredient list simple but essential to bring out those classic cabbage roll flavors in a keto-friendly way. Each item plays a specific role, whether it’s adding savory depth, texture, or vibrant color to the skillet.

TIP : You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below

Ground beef: Provides hearty protein and the rich base for this dish.
Yellow onion: Adds a sweet, savory foundation that caramelizes nicely.
Bell pepper: Brings a mild crunch and subtle sweetness, plus color.
Small head of cabbage: Key to replicating cabbage roll flavors, it softens while cooking, soaking up spices perfectly.
Diced tomatoes: Add moisture and a slight acidity to balance richness.
Tony Chachere's Creole seasoning: My secret weapon for a flavorful kick and depth – but salt and spices work, too.
Garlic powder: Infuses warm, roasted garlic aroma with minimal fuss.
Smoked paprika: Imparts a gentle smoky essence that pairs beautifully with the cabbage and beef.
Black pepper: Lends just the right amount of heat and complexity.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts on top for that rich, comforting finish everyone loves.

Directions

Step 1: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground beef. Break it apart as it browns, cooking until it's no longer pink. Drain excess fat if there's more than a few tablespoons, but I usually leave just a bit to keep the flavor.

Step 2: Toss in the chopped yellow onion and bell pepper. Cook everything together for about 3 to 4 minutes until the veggies start to soften and the onions turn translucent.

Step 3: Add the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, and all the seasonings: Tony Chachere's Creole seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly so all the flavors meld.

Step 4: Cover the skillet with a lid and let the mixture cook for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir it occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking. By the end, the cabbage should be tender and the mixture well combined. Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning if necessary!

Step 5: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the skillet mixture. Replace the lid and allow the cheese to melt completely, which should take just a few minutes.

Step 6: Serve hot, either on its own for a keto-friendly meal or alongside rice for those not following a low-carb diet. Enjoy every comforting, cheesy bite!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 6 satisfying servings, perfect for feeding a family or saving leftovers. The prep time is quick, usually around 10 minutes, especially if you use pre-chopped veggies. Cook time takes about 30 minutes total, mostly hands-off simmering. Including prep and cooking, expect the full process to take about 40 minutes from start to finish. There is no resting time needed, so you can dig in as soon as the cheese is melted and bubbly.

How to Serve This Cabbage Roll Skillet (Easy Keto Ground Beef Dinner Recipe) Recipe

A round white bowl filled with a mix of cooked ground beef and chopped cabbage, evenly spread in one layer, mixed with small pieces of orange carrot, green pepper, and light yellow melted cheese scattered on top, giving a warm and soft texture. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a green cloth and parsley leaves nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When I serve this dish, I like to keep the presentation warm and approachable. It tastes fantastic straight from the skillet, so I often place it in the center of the table for everyone to help themselves. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions adds a nice pop of color and freshness on top. I also enjoy pairing it with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness.

If you’re serving non-keto guests or kids, a side of fluffy white or brown rice works beautifully as a neutral base. I also love pairing this skillet with steamed asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts for extra veggies on the plate. When it comes to drinks, a crisp dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing sparkling water with lemon complements the smoky and savory notes perfectly.

This recipe is ideal for casual family dinners but also shines at casual potlucks or meal prep for busy weeks. I always recommend serving it hot or warm to fully enjoy the melty cheese and tender veggies. Portion sizes are generous, so it’s great for leftovers too – just reheat and enjoy that comforting home-cooked flavor all week long.

Variations

I love how adaptable this Cabbage Roll Skillet (Easy Keto Ground Beef Dinner Recipe) Recipe is. For a different protein, ground turkey or chicken works wonderfully and keeps it lean while still absorbing the seasoning beautifully. If you like a little extra spice, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce really amps up the flavor in a way I find irresistible.

If you want to make it vegan or vegetarian, swapping the beef for hearty plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms provides a lovely texture. You can also replace the cheddar cheese with a vegan cheese alternative or omit it entirely and finish with a drizzle of olive oil or tahini for creaminess. Just be sure to use vegetable broth or water if you add any liquids to keep it plant-based.

For a different cooking method, I’ve even tried making this in the oven by placing the skillet mixture into an oven-safe dish and baking it covered at 350°F for about 30 minutes before adding cheese and broiling briefly to melt the topping. It creates a slightly different texture but just as delicious. The stovetop, though, remains my go-to because it’s faster and easier to monitor.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

When I have leftovers, I transfer the skillet to an airtight container once it has cooled to room temperature. This recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Using a glass container with a snap-on lid works best to preserve freshness and prevent any odors from mingling with other foods.

Freezing

This Cabbage Roll Skillet is freezer-friendly, which is a lifesaver for meal prep. I like to freeze it in portioned, freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags with the air pressed out. Make sure it has cooled completely before freezing to maintain the best texture. It will keep well frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat this dish is on the stovetop over low to medium heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of water or broth if it seems dry. This helps restore the moisture and keeps the cabbage tender. While you can microwave it, I prefer stovetop reheating to avoid uneven warming or rubbery texture. A quick re-melt of some cheddar on top after reheating is always a welcome touch!

FAQs

Can I use other types of cheese instead of cheddar?

Absolutely! While cheddar gives this dish its signature melty richness, you can use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a pepper jack for some extra heat. Just choose a cheese that melts well for the best results.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb or keto diet?

Yes, it’s perfect for keto and low-carb lifestyles because it uses cabbage instead of carb-heavy rice or noodles. The hearty ground beef and fat from cheese help keep it satisfying and in line with keto macros.

What if I don’t have Tony Chachere's Creole seasoning?

No worries! I love Tony Chachere's for the great seasoning boost, but you can substitute with a mix of salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne or black pepper to mimic the flavor. Season to your taste as you cook.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Definitely. You can chop your veggies and even brown the beef in advance, then combine and cook everything fresh when you’re ready. It’s also excellent as a make-ahead meal stored in the fridge or freezer for quick reheating later.

What is the best cabbage to use for this skillet?

I recommend using green cabbage because it holds up well during cooking and has a mild flavor that works beautifully here. Savoy cabbage is also a nice alternative if you want a slightly more tender texture and delicate leaves.

Conclusion

I hope you’ll give this Cabbage Roll Skillet (Easy Keto Ground Beef Dinner Recipe) Recipe a try soon because it’s truly one of my all-time favorite comfort meals. It brings together simple ingredients with amazing flavor in a fuss-free, family-friendly way. Once you make it, I have a feeling it’ll become a staple in your dinner rotation just like it has in mine. Happy cooking and enjoy every delicious bite!