Pork Cabbage Skillet Recipe
Weeknights can be a whirlwind, but can you find a quick, healthy meal that everyone will eat? That’s no small feat! This Pork Cabbage Skillet Recipe has you covered. It’s one of those brilliant 30-minute pork recipes that checks all the boxes—simple prep, minimal cleanup, and delicious results.
The tender pork paired with sautéed cabbage creates a hearty, flavorful dish that feels comfortable without guilt.
This recipe is versatile enough to make your own, perfect for brainstorming weeknight dinner ideas or just needing a go-to family-friendly dinner.
Whether you’re new to one-pan meals or a seasoned pro, this recipe will become a household favorite. Grab your skillet, and let’s make dinner easy tonight!
This Easy Pork Cabbage Skillet is the ultimate answer to busy nights. It’s a one-pan wonder quickly prepared and packed with wholesome ingredients and bold flavors. It’s a great option if you’re looking for low-carb skillet recipes or love the convenience of easy skillet dinners.
From its quick prep to the satisfying, feel-good bites, this dish proves that simple ingredients can create something truly delicious. Now, let’s explore how you can bring this family-friendly dinner to life in your kitchen!
Why You’ll Love Pork Cabbage Skillet Recipe
This Pork and Cabbage Dinner Recipe is about to become your weeknight hero! Here’s why it’s sure to win a spot on your family’s regular dinner rotation:
Easy to Make
This recipe uses minimal ingredients and a single skillet. Every step, from slicing the pork to sautéing the cabbage, is straightforward—even for non-seasoned cooks.
Family-Friendly
The combination of tender pork and savory cabbage creates a flavor-packed dish for kids and adults. It’s hearty, healthy, and guaranteed to bring everyone around the dinner table.
Versatile
Want to switch things up? Use ground pork instead of medallions or swap green cabbage for red for a pop of color. Craving a little heat? Add chili flakes or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an extra kick.
Quick Cleanup
We all love a meal that doesn’t leave a mountain of dishes, right? This one-pan wonder saves you precious time on cleanup, so you can relax after dinner.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re planning a cozy family meal, meal prepping for the week, or even entertaining a few friends, this dish fits every scenario. Pair it with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or keep it low-carb with a fresh salad on the side.
Ingredients for Pork Cabbage Skillet Recipe
This One-Pan Pork Cabbage Meal shines with its simplicity and use of wholesome ingredients that come together for a flavor-packed dinner. Each addition plays a key role in making this dish hearty, satisfying, and incredibly easy to prepare.
- Pork — The star of the show, bringing tender, juicy bites and a rich protein boost to the dish.
- Cabbage — Adds texture, a subtle sweetness, and a satisfying crunch that pairs perfectly with the pork.
- Onion and Garlic — The aromatic foundation that enhances the overall flavor and fills your kitchen with an irresistible smell.
- Soy Sauce or Seasonings — Infuses the dish with savory, umami-rich notes that deeply satisfy every bite.
- Oil — Helps everything cook evenly while bringing out the flavors of the ingredients.
- Optional Additions — Customize your skillet with extras like diced carrots for sweetness, chili flakes for heat, or sliced mushrooms for a meaty, earthy touch.
Craving exact measurements for these simple ingredients? Scroll to the recipe card below for the full details and a handy printable version to get started right away!
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Instructions to Make Quick Pork Cabbage Stir-Fry
Making this dish is a breeze, and the process is as enjoyable as the dish itself! Follow these simple steps to bring a hearty, delicious dinner to your table:
- Get Everything Prepped
Start by slicing your pork into bite-sized pieces or thin medallions. This helps it cook faster and more evenly. Chop the cabbage into shreds or small chunks, and dice your onion and garlic. Prepping everything beforehand makes the cooking process smooth and stress-free. - Sear the Pork
Heat a drizzle of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the pork pieces in a single layer. Sear them until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy on the edges. Remove the pork from the skillet and set it aside—you’ll add it back later. - Sauté the Aromatics
Using the same skillet, toss in the diced onion and garlic. Stir them around for a few minutes until they’re fragrant and softened. This is where the dish starts to smell amazing! - Cook the Cabbage
Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet, tossing it with the onion and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage starts to wilt but still has a slight crunch. This preserves its texture while blending with the aromatics beautifully. - Bring It All Together
Return the seared pork and any juices that may have gathered to the skillet. Pour in soy sauce or your chosen seasonings. Toss everything thoroughly to coat the pork and cabbage in those savory flavors. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to marry the flavors and finish cooking the pork. - Serve and Enjoy
Remove the skillet from the heat once everything is heated through and coated. Serve your masterpiece straight from the skillet for easy cleanup, pairing it with rice, mashed potatoes, or a crunchy side salad for a complete meal!
Pro Tip
To avoid overcooking the pork, keep an eye on it while searing. Remove it as soon as it’s browned—don’t worry if it’s slightly underdone; it will finish cooking when mixed back in later.
Skillet Recipe Tips and Tricks
- Prep Ahead
Chopping your cabbage, onion, and garlic in advance during the week can save time. You can also pre-slice the pork and store it in the fridge for up to a day. - Take It Up a Notch
Enhance the flavor by deglazing the skillet with a broth or white wine splash before adding the cabbage. This adds extra depth to the dish! - Make It Your Own
Play around with the seasonings. Add a dash of smoked paprika, chili powder, or ginger for a flavor boost. Want extra veggies? Slice bell peppers or zucchini. - Serve It Fresh
This dish tastes best freshly made, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container. Reheat gently in the skillet to avoid overcooking.
Troubleshooting Pork Cabbage Skillet Recipe
- Overcooking the Pork
If your pork is tough, it may have been cooked too long. Next time, brown it lightly and let it finish cooking with the cabbage. - Watery Skillet
If your skillet has too much liquid from the cabbage, turn up the heat for a minute or two to allow it to evaporate. Alternatively, add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water) to thicken. - Too Salty?
If you’ve used a lot of soy sauce, balance it out with a pinch of sugar or a splash of unsalted broth. - Flavor Lacking Depth
If you feel the flavors could be bolder, try a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice right at the end—it brightens everything up beautifully!
Recommended Resources
Make sure you have the right tools to whip up this Healthy Pork Cabbage Skillet effortlessly! Here are three must-have kitchen essentials that will make the process smoother and more enjoyable:
- Large Skillet
The backbone of this recipe is a reliable, high-quality skillet! A large skillet with deep sides allows you to cook the pork evenly, sauté the cabbage, and mix the ingredients without any spills. Non-stick or cast iron options are perfect for browning the pork to perfection while keeping cleanup easy. - Sharp Chef’s Knife
A good chef’s knife is your best friend for efficient prep. Use it to chop the cabbage into neat shreds, dice the onion and garlic effortlessly, and slice the pork into even pieces. A sharp, comfortable knife will speed up your prep time and ensure precision. - Wooden Spoon or Spatula
Stirring plays a key role in this one-pan recipe! A sturdy wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula is ideal for sautéing your aromatics and turning the cabbage and pork without scratching your skillet. It’s a simple but essential tool for keeping the flavors perfectly blended.
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Customizing this Skillet Recipe for Every Diet
The beauty of this Pork Skillet Recipe is how easy it is to adapt to fit different dietary needs while still delivering big flavor. Whether you’re looking to keep it gluten-free, vegetarian, or low-carb, here are some simple tweaks to make it just right for you or your family:
- Gluten-Free
Swap regular soy sauce with a gluten-free alternative, such as tamari. This ensures you get all the savory, umami flavor without any gluten. Pair the dish with gluten-free side options like cauliflower rice or roasted sweet potatoes for a complete meal. - Vegetarian
Skip the pork and double up on hearty veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. You can also add plant-based proteins like tofu, tempeh, or lentils for a satisfying, meat-free skillet that’s still packed with protein and texture. - Low-Carb
To keep the dish low-carb, ditch any starchy sides and savor the skillet as it is. For even fewer carbs, use coconut aminos in place of soy sauce. Serve it over a bed of zucchini noodles or alongside a crisp, green salad to adhere to your low-carb goals. - Dairy-Free
This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but if you’re adding anything extra, like butter or cheese, be sure to use plant-based alternatives. If you’d like to amplify the richness without dairy, a drizzle of olive oil works beautifully for finishing instead of butter.
Try one of these variations today and watch it become a personalized favorite in no time!
Making a Meal Out of Pork Cabbage Skillet Recipe
Looking to turn this One Pan Pork Recipe into a complete, crowd-pleasing meal? We’ve got you covered!
- Main Entrée Pairing
Serve the skillet as a savory side dish alongside crispy roasted chicken thighs or tender pork tenderloin for a protein-packed dinner. If you’re feeling adventurous, pair it with grilled salmon for a delightful surf-and-turf vibe. - Salad Options
Balance the skillet’s rich, savory profile with something light and refreshing. Try a garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette or a zesty cucumber and tomato salad. A citrus spinach salad with oranges and a drizzle of honey dressing would be perfect for a slightly sweeter touch. - Sides to Complement
Add some extra comfort to the meal with buttery mashed potatoes, fluffy steamed rice, or warm bread to soak up every bit of sauce from the skillet. Roasted cauliflower or sautéed green beans are excellent choices for a low-carb option. - Beverage Pairings
Refresh your palate with a cold glass of iced tea, sparkling water with lime, or a flavorful mocktail.
With these ideas, you’ll have an irresistible meal that feels complete and satisfying—whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special family gathering.
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Recipes with Pork
Love the savory goodness of pork? Here are a few more pork recipes to inspire your next meal! From quick weeknight dinners to rich, flavorful dishes, pork’s versatility shines in every cuisine. Check out these delicious ideas:
- Pork Stir-Fry
A quick, colorful dish packed with tender slices of pork, vibrant veggies, and a savory soy-based sauce. Perfect for busy evenings when you want something wholesome and satisfying in under 30 minutes. - BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Slow-cooked to perfection, this juicy pulled pork is slathered in a tangy barbecue sauce and piled onto a soft bun. Pair it with coleslaw for a classic combo that’s hard to resist! - Pork Fried Rice
Transform leftover pork into a crowd-pleasing pork fried rice. Toss it with fresh veggies, eggs, and flavorful seasonings for a one-pan meal that’s quick, hearty, and absolutely irresistible. - Stuffed Pork Chops
Elevate your dinner table with thick-cut pork chops stuffed with a savory mix of breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese. A perfect balance of crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this dish is a cozy favorite.
With these flavorful pork meals, you’ll never not have ideas to bring hearty, delicious dishes to the table. Pick one (or all!) to try this week and discover just how versatile pork can be in your cooking!
FAQs about Pork Cabbage Skillet Recipe
Pork Cabbage Skillet Recipe Storage and Reheating Tips
Wondering how to handle leftovers from your delicious Pork Cabbage Dinner Recipe? Here’s a quick guide to keeping it fresh and making the most of any extras!
- Storing Leftovers
Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container to lock in the flavors and keep them from drying out. Store it in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. - Reheating Tips
To reheat, warm the skillet on the stovetop over low to medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, and add a splash of water or broth to restore its original texture and juiciness. For a quick fix, you can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to avoid overcooking. - Creative Leftover Ideas
Get creative with your leftovers! Here are some fun and tasty ways to repurpose them:- Use it as a savory filling for wraps or tortillas. For extra flavor, drizzle with your favorite sauce.
- Spoon it over a steamed rice or quinoa bed to create an easy and hearty rice bowl.
- Layer it with noodles or pasta for a quick stir-fry-inspired meal.
- Top off a baked potato with the skillet mixture for a satisfying comfort dish.
By following these tips, you’ll enjoy every last bite of this flavorful dish, whether it’s reheated as-is or reinvented into a whole new meal!
Pork Cabbage Skillet Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 Pound(s) pork loin cut into thin medallions
- 1 Tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 thinly sliced medium red onion
- 1 thinly sliced head of green cabbage
- 3 Tablespoons of tamari you could also use coconut aminos
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the pork and season it with salt and pepper. (optional) Cook the pork until there is a golden crust on all sides and is almost fully cooked. This will take about 6-8 minutes. Once cooked, take the pork out of the skillet and set it aside.
- Add the olive oil into the same skillet, and then add the sliced onion and sliced cabbage. Add more salt and pepper, and then cook until the onion and cabbage are soft and slightly glossy. This will take about 15-20 minutes.
- Put the cooked pork back into the same skillet and then add the tamari. Cook until the pork is completely cooked and the mixture should have a nice glaze. This will take about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from the skillet and serve.
Nutrition
More Recipes Like Pork Cabbage Skillet Recipe
If you loved this Pork Cabbage Skillet Recipe, you’re in for a treat! Here are a few more one-pan wonders and pork-packed meals you’ll want to try. Easy to make and bursting with flavor, these recipes are perfect for any night of the week!
- Sweet and Savory Pork Stir-Fry
A rainbow of crispy vegetables combined with tender pork slices tossed in a mouthwatering sweet and tangy sauce. It’s a 20-minute dinner that’s as vibrant as it is delicious. - One-Pan Pork and Potato Hash
Hearty and comforting, this recipe combines seared pork with golden, crispy potatoes and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Add a fried egg on top for the ultimate brunch or breakfast-for-dinner option. - Garlic Butter Pork and Green Beans Skillet
Succulent pork bites seared to perfection are paired with crisp-tender green beans coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. This quick dish will become an instant favorite thanks to its simple yet bold flavors. - Cabbage and Sausage Skillet
This is a smoky twist on the classic skillet meal! Juicy sausage, tender cabbage, and a medley of spices come together in this savory dish, which is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Each recipe delivers the same ease and versatility you loved about the Pork Cabbage Skillet Recipe! Give them a try and discover even more ways to enjoy quick, satisfying meals made in just one pan.
This Pork Cabbage Skillet Recipe is a true winner—simple, satisfying, and versatile! Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the days ahead, it’s a dish that fits right into any routine. Save or bookmark this recipe, so it’s always handy when you’re craving something hearty and delicious.
If you give it a try (and I hope you do!), I’d love to hear what you think! Feel free to share your feedback or any creative spins you put on it—I’m all about those delicious twists. And don’t keep this recipe to yourself! Pass it along to your friends and family—they’ll thank you for sharing a one-pan wonder like this.
Looking for more family-friendly ideas? Explore the site for even more simple, crowd-pleasing recipes that make dinnertime a breeze.
