Description
These Easy Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls deliver all the comforting flavors of classic stuffed cabbage rolls without the extra work. Tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, rice, and rich tomato sauce simmer together in one hearty skillet meal. This simple one-pot cabbage roll recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, and freezer-friendly family dinners.
Ingredients
-
1 pound ground beef
-
1 small head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
-
1 medium onion, diced
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 cup uncooked white rice
-
1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
-
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
-
1 ½ cups beef broth
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
1 teaspoon paprika
-
1 teaspoon dried thyme
-
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
-
½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
Instructions
-
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
-
Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
-
Stir in diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
-
Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
-
Stir in chopped cabbage and cook for 5–7 minutes until it begins to soften.
-
Add uncooked rice, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth.
-
Season with paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaf if using.
-
Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low.
-
Cover and cook for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is tender and cabbage is soft.
-
Remove bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.
-
Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.Use brown rice but increase cooking time and liquid slightly.Add diced bell peppers or carrots for extra vegetables.Stir in a splash of Worcestershire sauce for added depth.For a cheesy version, top with shredded mozzarella or cheddar before serving.Replace rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb variation (reduce broth accordingly).
