Tex Mex Cabbage Skillet

This Tex Mex Cabbage Skillet has transformed my busy weeknights with its perfect balance of comfort food flavor and impressive nutrition profile. When taco cravings hit but you need something lighter and quicker, this skillet steps in as the ultimate solution.

I first created this dish when trying to use up an abundance of cabbage from our CSA box. My husband who usually turns his nose up at cabbage surprised me by requesting seconds and now it appears on our meal rotation at least twice a month.

• Ground beef ideally 90/10 lean to avoid excess grease while maintaining flavor
• Green cabbage fresh and crisp creates the perfect tender crunch foundation
• Low carb taco seasoning provides authentic flavor without unnecessary fillers
• Dry minced onion offers convenience with concentrated flavor
• Water helps steam the cabbage and distribute seasoning evenly
• Cheddar cheese choose sharp variety for maximum impact with less quantity needed

How To Make Tex Mex Cabbage Skillet

Brown the beef

Start with a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until no pink remains. Be sure to drain excess fat for a cleaner finished dish.

Add vegetables and seasonings

Incorporate the shredded cabbage directly into the cooked beef. Sprinkle the taco seasoning and dry minced onion evenly across the mixture then pour in the water. Stir everything together to ensure even distribution of flavors.

Steam and meld flavors

Continue cooking for approximately 5 minutes stirring occasionally. You want the cabbage to soften slightly but maintain some crispness for textural contrast. The mixture will reduce in volume as the cabbage cooks down.

Cheese finishing

Once cabbage reaches that perfect crisp tender stage sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly across the top. Place the lid on the skillet to trap heat and help melt the cheese completely about 5 minutes. The melted cheese creates a delicious binding element.

My absolute favorite part of this dish is the surprising sweetness that develops when the cabbage caramelizes slightly in the beef drippings. It reminds me of the first time my grandmother taught me to cook with cabbage. She always said cabbage was underrated and this recipe proves her wisdom every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

This cabbage skillet keeps remarkably well in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors actually intensify overnight making leftovers sometimes even better than the original serving. Store in airtight containers for best results. While you can freeze portions for up to two months the cabbage texture may soften more upon thawing and reheating.

Customization Options

This recipe welcomes adaptation based on what you have available. Ground turkey or chicken works beautifully as a beef alternative. For vegetarians crumbled tempeh or extra firm tofu can substitute for the meat protein. Purple cabbage creates a visually stunning variation with slightly different flavor notes. Feel free to add diced bell peppers poblanos or jalapeños for extra vegetables and heat customization.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this skillet as a complete meal on its own or take it to the next level with strategic toppings. Fresh diced avocado sour cream chopped cilantro sliced black olives or a squeeze of lime juice all complement the flavors wonderfully. For family members wanting more traditional presentation offer low carb tortillas on the side. A simple green salad makes a perfect accompanying side dish.

Cultural Context

This recipe represents the beautiful fusion that happens when Mexican flavors meet American pragmatism. Traditional Tex Mex cuisine often features cabbage as a taco topping but elevating it to main ingredient status honors both the vegetable forward cooking traditions of border regions and modern low carb approaches to beloved comfort classics.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute ground turkey for the beef?

Yes, ground turkey works beautifully as a substitute for beef in this dish. It provides a leaner option while still absorbing all the Tex-Mex flavors. Just note that turkey may release less fat when cooking, so you might need to add a teaspoon of olive oil when browning it.

→ What can I use if I don't have taco seasoning?

You can make your own taco seasoning by combining 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon each of cumin and garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon each of paprika, oregano, and salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. This will give you similar flavors to the store-bought version.

→ Is this dish low-carb friendly?

Yes, this Tex Mex Cabbage Skillet is excellent for low-carb diets. Using cabbage instead of traditional tortillas or rice significantly reduces the carbohydrate content while still delivering satisfying Tex-Mex flavors.

→ What toppings go well with this skillet dish?

Enhance your skillet with fresh toppings like diced avocado, chopped cilantro, sour cream, sliced jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or a squeeze of lime juice. These additions bring brightness and texture that complements the warm, savory base.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. The flavors often deepen after a day, making this dish excellent for meal prep.

→ Can I make this spicier?

Absolutely! Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper when cooking the beef. You can also incorporate hot sauce or red pepper flakes according to your heat preference. Serving with sliced fresh jalapeños allows everyone to adjust their own spice level.