Looking for a hearty, one-pan keto meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes? This Minced Beef and Cabbage Skillet with Garlic Butter is your answer. Packed with savoury minced beef, tender cabbage, and a rich garlic butter sauce, it’s a comforting dish that’s low in carbs but full of flavour.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, as it comes together quickly and uses just a handful of simple ingredients. The cabbage soaks up all the delicious juices from the beef and butter, making every bite satisfying and nourishing. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and can be easily adapted for dairy-free diets.
To make this dish, you’ll brown the beef with onions and garlic, then toss in shredded cabbage and cook until tender. Finish with a knob of butter and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a meal that’s both comforting and keto-friendly. Serve it straight from the skillet for minimal washing up and maximum flavour.
At a glance
- Time: 25 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Servings: 4
- Cost: Affordable
Macros (per serving)
- Protein: 24 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Carbs: 6 g
- Energy: 350 kcal
Ingredients
- 500g Minced beef (Ideally 15–20% fat for flavour)
- 500g Green cabbage (Shredded)
- 1 small (80g) Onion (Finely diced)
- 3 Garlic cloves (Minced)
- 40g Butter (Plus extra to serve)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil (For frying)
- 1 tsp Salt (Or to taste)
- ½ tsp Black pepper (Freshly ground)
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley (Chopped, to garnish)
Equipment Needed
- Large frying pan
- Sharp knife
- Chopping board
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring spoons
Steps
- Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the minced beef to the pan. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned and no longer pink.
- Season the beef with salt and black pepper. Stir well.
- Add the shredded cabbage to the pan. Toss to combine with the beef mixture.
- Reduce the heat to medium. Cover and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and has reduced in volume.
- Remove the lid and stir in the butter until melted and the mixture is glossy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens:
Recipe contains: dairy
Potential swaps:
- Butter → Dairy-free spread or coconut oil — For a dairy-free version
- Onion → Spring onion greens — For lower FODMAP
- Minced beef → Minced turkey or chicken — For a lighter option
Serving Ideas
- With a fried egg on top – for extra protein and richness.
- Alongside sautéed leafy greens – for added fibre and colour.
- Topped with grated cheese – for a cheesy, comforting finish.
Additional Info
Chefs Tips
- Slice the cabbage thinly for quicker, more even cooking.
- Let the beef brown well for extra flavour before adding cabbage.
- Add a pinch of chilli flakes for a gentle kick.
Variations
- Add a splash of soy sauce or tamari for an umami boost.
- Stir in a handful of spinach at the end for extra greens.
- Use minced lamb for a richer, deeper flavour.
Troubleshooting
- If the cabbage releases too much water, cook uncovered for a few minutes to evaporate excess liquid.
- If the beef is too dry, add an extra knob of butter at the end.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.
- Fridge: up to 4 days
- Freezer: up to 2 months
- Reheat: Reheat gently in a frying pan over medium heat until piping hot, or microwave in short bursts.
Ingredient Spotlight
Minced beef: A great source of protein and healthy fats, perfect for keto.
Cabbage: Low in carbs and high in fibre, it adds bulk and nutrition to the dish.
Butter: Enriches the skillet with flavour and healthy fats.
FAQs
Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, red cabbage works well and adds a slightly sweeter flavour and vibrant colour.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheats easily.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, portion into airtight containers and freeze for up to 2 months.
How do I make this dairy-free?
Swap the butter for coconut oil or a dairy-free spread.
What can I serve with this dish?
It’s delicious on its own, or with a side of leafy greens or a fried egg.
Minced Beef and Cabbage Skillet with Garlic Butter
Ingredients
- 500g Minced beef (Ideally 15–20% fat for flavour)
- 500g Green cabbage (Shredded)
- 1 small (80g) Onion (Finely diced)
- 3 Garlic cloves (Minced)
- 40g Butter (Plus extra to serve)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil (For frying)
- 1 tsp Salt (Or to taste)
- ½ tsp Black pepper (Freshly ground)
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley (Chopped, to garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the minced beef to the pan. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned and no longer pink.
- Season the beef with salt and black pepper. Stir well.
- Add the shredded cabbage to the pan. Toss to combine with the beef mixture.
- Reduce the heat to medium. Cover and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and has reduced in volume.
- Remove the lid and stir in the butter until melted and the mixture is glossy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Allergens & Swaps
Allergens: dairy
- Butter → Dairy-free spread or coconut oil — For a dairy-free version
- Onion → Spring onion greens — For lower FODMAP
- Minced beef → Minced turkey or chicken — For a lighter option
Nutrition (per serving)
- Protein: 24 g
- Fat: 28 g
- Carbs: 6 g
- Energy: 350 kcal
