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

Description

A simplified, one-pot version of classic cabbage rolls featuring tender ground beef, long-grain rice, and flavorful tomato sauce all cooked together with cabbage and aromatic spices for maximum comfort and minimal cleanup. This hearty Eastern European-inspired dish is perfect for a cozy meal and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Meat and Vegetables

1½ lb ground beef
1 small green cabbage, chopped
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced

Grains

1 cup long-grain rice, rinsed

Liquids and Sauces

2 cups tomato sauce
2½ cups beef broth

Seasonings and Oils

2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper

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Instructions

Brown the Beef and Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it begins to brown, breaking it apart as it cooks. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Season the Mixture: Stir in the paprika, salt, and black pepper, allowing the spices to coat the meat and onions evenly, enhancing the overall flavor.
Add Main Ingredients: Add the chopped cabbage, rinsed long-grain rice, tomato sauce, and beef broth to the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
Simmer to Cook: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to low to maintain a simmer. Let it cook gently for 30 to 35 minutes until the rice is tender, and the cabbage softens.
Final Seasoning and Serve: Stir the mixture once more to ensure everything is well mixed. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed with extra salt or pepper before serving warm.

Notes

For a healthier twist using brown rice, increase the beef broth by ½ cup and extend the simmering time by 15–20 minutes.
This dish freezes well, making it an excellent option for meal prepping and easy reheating.
Ensure the rice is rinsed before use to prevent excessive starchiness and improve texture.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Eastern European–Inspired