Description
Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls deliver all the traditional flavors of classic cabbage rolls without the hassle of stuffing and rolling each leaf. This one-pot meal combines seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, rice, tomatoes, and savory spices simmered together for a comforting and hearty dinner that’s perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Grains
- 3/4 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
Liquids and Sauces
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Heat the oil and brown the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 lb of ground beef and 1 diced medium onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned and the onion is softened, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté the garlic: Add 2 minced garlic cloves to the pot and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Add and soften the cabbage: Stir in about 6 cups of chopped green cabbage. Cook for 5 minutes until the cabbage begins to soften, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Add tomatoes, sauce, broth, and seasonings: Pour in 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juices, 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce, and 2 cups beef broth. Stir in 3/4 cup uncooked long-grain rice, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper until thoroughly combined.
- Simmer the mixture: Bring the contents to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally. Check the rice and cabbage for tenderness, adding a little more broth if the mixture seems too dry during cooking.
- Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the dish and adjust salt or pepper if needed. Garnish with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Ground beef can be swapped with ground turkey or pork for variation.
- Add finely chopped vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Using brown rice requires additional cooking time (about 55-60 minutes) and more broth (about 2½ cups).
- To make the dish without rice, omit rice and reduce beef broth by 1 cup.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if the mixture becomes too thick.
- The dish freezes well when cooled and stored in a freezer-safe container.
- Avoid excessive stirring during simmering to prevent the rice from becoming mushy.
- Serve with crusty bread, sour cream, green salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
