In a large pot or French oven, heat oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, onion and 1 tsp salt and cook together until beef is cooked through and no longer pink, and until onions are tender. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
Add in cabbage, Rotel, tomato sauce and water stir to combine. Stir in remanding salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil. Turn heat down to low, cover and let simmer for 30 minutes. Cabbage should be tender at this point. Season more if needed.