Skillet Ham, Cabbage, and Potatoes: A Hearty One-Pan Meal

This skillet ham, cabbage, and potatoes recipe is a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. It’s a simple dish that combines humble ingredients into a satisfying and delicious one-pan wonder. Using a skillet (cast iron is preferred, but any large skillet will do) minimizes cleanup, and the flavors meld together beautifully as the ingredients cook. This recipe is also incredibly versatile; feel free to adjust the vegetables, spices, and even the type of ham to suit your preferences.

## Why You’ll Love This Skillet Ham, Cabbage, and Potatoes

* **Easy to Make:** This recipe requires minimal prep and is straightforward to follow. It’s a great option for beginner cooks or anyone looking for a quick and easy meal.
* **One-Pan Wonder:** Fewer dishes to wash! Everything cooks in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.
* **Hearty and Filling:** The combination of ham, potatoes, and cabbage creates a satisfying and filling meal that will keep you full for hours.
* **Flavorful and Delicious:** The salty ham, tender potatoes, and slightly sweet cabbage combine to create a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
* **Versatile and Adaptable:** Easily customize the recipe to your liking by adding different vegetables, spices, or herbs.
* **Budget-Friendly:** This recipe uses affordable ingredients, making it a great option for budget-conscious cooks.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

* **Ham:** 1 pound, cooked ham, diced or cubed. Leftover ham works perfectly, or you can use a ham steak.
* **Potatoes:** 2 pounds, Yukon gold or red potatoes, peeled and cubed. Yukon gold potatoes have a creamy texture that works well in this dish.
* **Cabbage:** 1 medium head, green cabbage, shredded or chopped. Savoy cabbage is another good option.
* **Onion:** 1 medium, yellow onion, chopped. This adds a subtle sweetness and aroma to the dish.
* **Garlic:** 2-3 cloves, minced. Garlic enhances the flavor of the entire dish.
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons. You can also use bacon grease or vegetable oil.
* **Chicken Broth:** 1/2 cup. This helps to steam the vegetables and adds moisture to the dish. You can substitute with vegetable broth or water.
* **Dijon Mustard:** 1 tablespoon (optional). Adds a tangy flavor that complements the ham and cabbage.
* **Apple Cider Vinegar:** 1 tablespoon (optional). Adds a touch of acidity to balance the richness of the dish.
* **Dried Thyme:** 1 teaspoon. Adds a savory, earthy flavor.
* **Dried Rosemary:** 1/2 teaspoon. Rosemary complements the ham and potatoes beautifully.
* **Salt:** To taste.
* **Black Pepper:** To taste.
* **Optional Garnishes:** Fresh parsley, chopped green onions.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Large Skillet (Cast Iron Preferred): A 12-inch skillet is ideal. If you don’t have a cast iron skillet, any large, heavy-bottomed skillet will work.
* Cutting Board
* Chef’s Knife
* Measuring Cups and Spoons
* Wooden Spoon or Spatula

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious skillet ham, cabbage, and potatoes:

**1. Prepare the Ingredients:**

* Peel and cube the potatoes into bite-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. Consistent sizing ensures even cooking.
* Shred or chop the cabbage. Remove the tough outer leaves first.
* Dice or cube the cooked ham into similar-sized pieces as the potatoes. If using a ham steak, remove the bone (if any) and dice the meat.
* Chop the onion. A fine chop will allow it to cook evenly and release its flavor.
* Mince the garlic. Use a garlic press or finely chop it with a knife.

**2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:**

* Heat the olive oil in the large skillet over medium heat. Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the oil.
* Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
* Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

**3. Add the Potatoes:**

* Add the cubed potatoes to the skillet and stir to coat them with the oil, onion, and garlic mixture.
* Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
* Cook the potatoes for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften and brown slightly. You want them to be mostly cooked through before adding the cabbage.

**4. Add the Cabbage and Ham:**

* Add the shredded or chopped cabbage to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the potatoes and other ingredients.
* Pour in the chicken broth. This will help steam the cabbage and keep the dish moist.
* Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and slightly wilted. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
* Remove the lid and add the diced or cubed ham to the skillet. Stir gently to incorporate the ham into the mixture.
* If using, stir in the Dijon mustard and apple cider vinegar.

**5. Cook Until Heated Through:**

* Continue to cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the ham is heated through and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
* Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.

**6. Serve and Enjoy:**

* Remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
* Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions, if desired.
* Serve hot and enjoy! This dish is delicious on its own or with a side of crusty bread.

## Tips for Success

* **Use a Cast Iron Skillet:** A cast iron skillet is ideal for this recipe because it distributes heat evenly and can withstand high temperatures. However, any large, heavy-bottomed skillet will work.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet:** If your skillet is too small, the vegetables will steam instead of brown. Cook in batches if necessary.
* **Cut the Vegetables into Uniform Sizes:** This ensures that the vegetables cook evenly.
* **Don’t Overcook the Cabbage:** Overcooked cabbage can become mushy and bitter. Cook it until it’s tender but still has a slight bite.
* **Use Leftover Ham:** This recipe is a great way to use up leftover ham from a holiday meal.
* **Adjust the Seasoning to Your Liking:** Taste the dish throughout the cooking process and adjust the seasoning as needed.
* **Add Other Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

## Variations

* **Smoked Sausage:** Substitute the ham with smoked sausage for a different flavor profile.
* **Bacon:** Cook bacon in the skillet before adding the vegetables for extra flavor.
* **Different Potatoes:** Use sweet potatoes or fingerling potatoes instead of Yukon gold or red potatoes.
* **Add Cheese:** Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese or Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking.
* **Creamy Version:** Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt at the end of cooking for a creamy texture.
* **Spicy Version:** Add a diced jalapeño pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
* **Vegetarian Version:** Omit the ham and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

## Serving Suggestions

* Serve as a main course for lunch or dinner.
* Serve with a side of crusty bread or rolls for soaking up the delicious juices.
* Serve with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
* Top with a fried egg for a hearty breakfast or brunch.
* Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.

## Make-Ahead Instructions

This skillet ham, cabbage, and potatoes can be made ahead of time and reheated. Simply cook the dish according to the instructions, then let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.

## Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per Serving, based on estimated values and may vary)

* Calories: 450-550
* Protein: 25-35g
* Fat: 20-30g
* Carbohydrates: 30-40g

This skillet ham, cabbage, and potatoes recipe is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!