
Need a quick, healthy, and satisfying dinner idea?
Look no further than this Ground Turkey Cabbage Skillet!
Packed with lean protein, vibrant veggies, and incredible flavor, this one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights.
Did you know that cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K and can support digestion? Pair it with ground turkey, and you have a nutritious meal that’s both hearty and wholesome.
Let’s dive in and whip up this simple yet delightful dish!
Why You’ll Love This Ground Turkey Cabbage Skillet
This dish checks all the boxes:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a lifesaver for busy evenings.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable, simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry.
- Healthy and Nutritious: High in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
- Customizable: Easily tweak the seasonings or add extra veggies to suit your taste.
Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this recipe is sure to impress without the stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious skillet:
- Ground turkey: Opt for lean or extra-lean for a healthy protein boost.
- Cabbage: Use green or savoy cabbage, finely shredded for even cooking.
- Onion: A yellow or white onion adds a subtle sweetness.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances the flavor.
- Soy sauce or coconut aminos: For a savory umami kick.
- Olive oil or avocado oil: To sauté the ingredients.
- Spices: Salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (optional).
- Optional additions: Carrots, bell peppers, or a splash of vinegar for a tangy twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Your Ingredients
- Finely shred the cabbage and dice the onion.
- Mince the garlic and set aside.
2. Cook the Ground Turkey
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Add the ground turkey, breaking it into crumbles with a spatula.
- Season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed.
- Sauté the onion until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add the Cabbage
- Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and stir well to combine.
- Pour in the soy sauce or coconut aminos and toss to coat.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
5. Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked turkey to the skillet and mix well with the cabbage.
- Adjust seasonings to taste and add red pepper flakes for heat if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations and Add-Ons
Take this recipe to the next level with these ideas:
- Make it Keto-Friendly: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and pair it with cauliflower rice.
- Add More Veggies: Try shredded carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for added color and nutrients.
- Switch Up the Protein: Use ground chicken, pork, or even crumbled tofu for variety.
- Spice It Up: Add sriracha, chili paste, or a pinch of cayenne for a kick.
Serving Suggestions
This skillet is delicious on its own, but you can also:
- Serve over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a hearty meal.
- Pair it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices.
- Use leftovers as a filling for wraps or tacos.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Have leftovers? No problem!
- To Store: Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
- To Freeze: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
- To Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 30-second increments until heated through.
Recipe FAQ’s
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes! Store in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop for best results.
Can I use a different protein?
Yes! Ground chicken, pork, beef, or crumbled tofu work well as substitutes.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, especially if you use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce and skip any carb-heavy sides.
Ground Turkey Cabbage Skillet
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g ground turkey (lean or extra-lean)
- 4 cups cabbage finely shredded (about ½ a medium head)
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt adjust to taste
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional, for heat
Optional Additions:
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- 1 diced bell pepper
- splash of vinegar
Instructions
Prep Your Ingredients
- Shred the cabbage using a knife or mandoline.
- Dice the onion and mince the garlic.
Cook the Ground Turkey
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the ground turkey and season with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking the turkey into small pieces with a spatula, until browned and fully cooked.
- Remove the turkey from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
- Sauté the diced onion until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Cook the Cabbage
- Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet and stir to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Pour in the soy sauce and toss the cabbage to coat.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still crisp.
Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked turkey to the skillet and mix well with the cabbage.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve warm as a standalone dish or with a side of your choice.