If you love the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but don’t have the time (or energy!) for all that rolling, this Cabbage Roll Skillet is your perfect weeknight solution. Loaded with ground beef, hearty cabbage, vibrant veggies, rich seasonings, and topped with melty cheddar cheese, this one-pan wonder delivers all the comfort of classic cabbage rolls — without the fuss. Ready in just about 30 minutes, this dish transforms everyday ingredients into a satisfying and wholesome family meal. It’s the ideal combination of simple, comforting, and cheesy — and yes, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
🌟 Why You’ll Love This Easy Cabbage Roll Skillet
This recipe has everything you’re looking for in a dinner:
- âś… One-pan cleanup
- âś… Quick and hearty meal ready in 30 minutes
- âś… Comfort food made healthy with veggies and lean beef
- âś… Loaded with flavor from Creole spices and smoked paprika
- âś… Kid-friendly and budget-friendly
Whether you’re low on time, avoiding carbs, or just want a cozy skillet dinner, this cheesy cabbage roll skillet ticks all the boxes.
đź›’ Ingredients for Cabbage Roll Skillet
Here’s everything you need to make this savory and satisfying skillet meal:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef – Lean ground beef works best
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color!)
- 1 small head of cabbage, cored and chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes – no draining needed
Flavor Boosters:
- 2 tsp Tony Chachere’s Creole seasoning – for that signature Cajun flair
- 2 tsp garlic powder – adds depth
- 2 tsp smoked paprika – gives a warm, smoky touch
- 1 tsp black pepper – to balance the richness
Finishing Touch:
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – melt it on top for the ultimate cheesy finish
👩‍🍳 How to Make Cabbage Roll Skillet (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, crumbling it with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Pepper
Add the chopped onion and bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften and become fragrant.
Step 3: Add and Cook the Cabbage
Toss in the chopped cabbage. Stir well and cook for 5–7 minutes, or until the cabbage starts to wilt down.
Step 4: Stir in Tomatoes and Spices
Add the diced tomatoes (with their juice), Creole seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Melt
Evenly sprinkle the cheddar cheese over the top. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for another 3–5 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Serve and Savor
Spoon into bowls and serve hot. This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own but also pairs well with a slice of crusty bread or a simple side salad.
🥗 Serving Suggestions
Looking for ways to round out this meal? Try pairing it with:
- A light cucumber salad or coleslaw
- A side of garlic toast or cornbread
- Roasted or steamed green beans
- A spoonful of sour cream on top for extra creaminess
🔄 Variations and Tips
- Make it low-carb by using riced cauliflower instead of tomatoes
- Go spicy by adding crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce
- Switch up the meat with ground turkey, sausage, or a plant-based option
- Add rice if you want a more traditional cabbage roll texture
🧊 Storage and Reheating
This dish stores beautifully!
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for easy future meals
- Reheat: Warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through
It’s a perfect meal prep recipe for busy weeks — just reheat and serve.
đź’¬ Final Thoughts
This Cabbage Roll Skillet is proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. It captures the soul-soothing taste of classic cabbage rolls while saving you time and effort in the kitchen. The combination of savory beef, tender cabbage, and gooey cheddar cheese is irresistible — and it all comes together in one skillet for easy cleanup.
It’s the ultimate comfort food meets convenience dish, ready to earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.