Name: One-Pot Beef and Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Eastern European–Inspired
Ingredients: 1½ lb ground beef; 1 small green cabbage, chopped; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed; 2 cups tomato sauce; 2½ cups beef broth; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper

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If you love hearty comfort food that feels like a warm hug, then this One-Pot Beef and Cabbage Rolls Recipe is going to steal your heart. It takes the cherished flavors of traditional cabbage rolls and transforms them into a simple, fuss-free meal that comes together in a single pot. Tender ground beef, nutty rice, fragrant onion and garlic, all slow-cooked with fresh green cabbage and rich tomato sauce, create a luscious, satisfying dish with minimal effort and cleanup. Whether you’re new to cabbage rolls or a longtime fan, this recipe brings cozy, soul-warming goodness straight to your table in under an hour.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows different ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. At the bottom left, there is a white plate holding pink ground meat. Above it to the left is a green cabbage, while to the right of the cabbage is a glass bowl filled with white cauliflower rice. Nearby are small white bowls with red tomato sauce, clear oil, and a small reddish-brown spice. A whole brown onion sits to the top right, and a small piece of garlic is placed at the bottom left of the image. Each item is clearly visible with natural lighting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting started on this One-Pot Beef and Cabbage Rolls Recipe is delightfully straightforward, thanks to a handful of staple ingredients that each play a vital role. From the savory depth of the ground beef to the subtle sweetness of cabbage, every component is carefully chosen to create a comforting balance of tastes and textures.

1½ lb ground beef: Provides rich, meaty flavor and hearty protein, forming the recipe’s savory base.
1 small green cabbage, chopped: Adds a tender crunch and a mild earthy sweetness that softens beautifully as it cooks.
1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed: Absorbs all the delicious juices to create a filling, fluffy texture in every bite.
1 medium onion, diced: Introduces aromatic sweetness and depth to the beef as it sautés.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings warmth and a subtle pungency that enhances the overall savoriness.
2 cups tomato sauce: Adds tangy, vibrant flavor and a luscious, saucy base for simmering.
2½ cups beef broth: Infuses the dish with extra meaty richness and ensures the rice cooks plump and tender.
2 tbsp olive oil: Used for browning the beef, contributes a smooth, fruity undertone and prevents sticking.
1 tsp paprika: Offers a gentle smoky sweetness that elevates the flavor profile without overpowering it.
1 tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors and balances the acidity of the tomato sauce.
½ tsp black pepper: Adds just the right hint of subtle heat and complexity.

How to Make One-Pot Beef and Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef, Onion, and Garlic

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef along with diced onion and minced garlic. Cook everything together, stirring occasionally, until the beef loses its pink color and the onion becomes soft and fragrant. This step lays down a rich and flavorful foundation for the dish, releasing the beef’s savory juices and softening the onions just right.

Step 2: Season with Paprika, Salt, and Pepper

Once the beef mixture is nicely browned, sprinkle in paprika, salt, and black pepper. These seasonings bring warmth, balance, and a subtle kick that will permeate every part of the meal as it simmers. Stir everything thoroughly so the spices coat the beef evenly, building depth and inviting aromas.

Step 3: Add Cabbage, Rice, Tomato Sauce, and Beef Broth

Next, stir in the chopped cabbage and rinsed rice, followed by the tomato sauce and beef broth. This is where the magic happens — the liquid will gently cook the rice and cabbage until tender, while infusing the entire pot with savory, tomato-rich goodness. Give it a good stir to combine all the ingredients and distribute flavors evenly.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Raise the heat just enough to bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then cover the pot with a lid and lower the heat to maintain a simmer. Let it cook for about 30 to 35 minutes until the rice is perfectly tender and the cabbage softens into a melt-in-your-mouth texture. This hands-off cooking time lets all the ingredients meld into one harmonious, comforting dish.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Before serving, give the pot a good stir and taste to see if it needs a pinch more salt or pepper. Adjust as desired — this final step ensures every spoonful bursts with flavor just the way you like it. Now your One-Pot Beef and Cabbage Rolls Recipe is ready to enjoy!

How to Serve One-Pot Beef and Cabbage Rolls Recipe

One-Pot Beef and Cabbage Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

To elevate your meal, fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or dill add a bright, herbaceous note that contrasts beautifully with the rich tomato sauce. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on the side offers a cool, creamy complement that’s classic in Eastern European cuisine and brings an extra layer of indulgence.

Side Dishes

This dish is wonderfully complete on its own, but if you want to round it out, think simple and fresh. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette or some steamed green beans provide a crisp, refreshing counterpoint to the warm, hearty main. Crusty bread or buttery mashed potatoes are also fantastic for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving a crowd or want to make an impression, spoon this one-pot meal into individual bowls and top each with a swirl of sour cream and a sprinkle of paprika or fresh herbs. Layering it with a side of pickled vegetables can also add a tangy burst of flavor, making each bite interesting and delightful.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers from this One-Pot Beef and Cabbage Rolls Recipe keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the dish in an airtight container to preserve moisture and prevent any flavors from mingling with other foods in your fridge.

Freezing

One of the best things about this recipe is that it freezes like a dream. Cool the dish completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will maintain its flavor and texture for up to 3 months, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or busy weeknight dinners.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to ensure even warmth. Either way, the dish will come back to life tasting just as comforting and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of long-grain white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice can be used, but be sure to add extra liquid and increase the cooking time accordingly since it takes longer to cook. This swaps in a nuttier flavor and a bit more chewiness.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or lentils, and use vegetable broth in place of beef broth. Keep in mind this will alter the flavor slightly, but it will still be a satisfying one-pot meal.

How can I tell when the cabbage is cooked enough?

The cabbage should be soft and tender but not mushy. It typically cooks through during the 30-35 minute simmering stage, so test it with a fork before serving to make sure it’s reached the perfect texture.

Do I have to brown the beef first?

Browning the beef along with onion and garlic builds essential flavor and texture that’s crucial to the dish. Skipping this step can result in a less flavorful and less visually appealing meal.

What can I add for a little extra spice?

If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper during the seasoning step. It adds a pleasant warmth without overpowering the comforting nature of the recipe.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pot Beef and Cabbage Rolls Recipe is one of those dishes that you’ll find yourself returning to again and again. It’s supremely comforting, incredibly easy to pull together, and makes your kitchen smell like happiness. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe delivers on taste, convenience, and heartwarming satisfaction all at once. Give it a try and watch how fast it becomes a family favorite!