Brown the Beef & Aromatics: Heat a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add 1.5 lbs ground beef and diced onion. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, breaking up the meat with a wooden spoon until browned and fully cooked. Drain excess fat if desired. 🥩🧅
Add Garlic & Seasonings: Reduce heat to medium. Stir in minced garlic, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. 🧄🌿
Add Tomatoes & Cabbage: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices. Add the chopped green cabbage in batches, tossing gently to combine with the beef mixture. 🥬🍅
Simmer Until Tender: Cover the skillet with a lid and cook over medium-low heat for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is wilted and tender. ⏲️
Top with Cheese & Melt: Uncover the skillet and sprinkle 1.5 cups of shredded cheese evenly across the top. Turn off the heat, replace the lid, and let stand for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly! 🧀
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley or green onions and serve warm straight from the skillet! 🍽️✨
