Best Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls deliver all the cozy, savory flavors of classic cabbage rolls without the time-consuming wrapping and rolling. Tender cabbage is cooked with seasoned ground beef, tomatoes, and rice in a rich, savory sauce, creating a hearty, one-pot meal that’s satisfying and simple. It’s the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or whenever you crave a warm, filling dish without the fuss.

What Makes This Dish Special?

Unstuffed cabbage rolls capture the essence of the traditional dish—savory meat, tender cabbage, tangy tomato sauce, and comforting rice—while eliminating the labor-intensive steps. Everything cooks together in one pot, soaking up the delicious sauce for maximum flavor. It’s a budget-friendly, freezer-friendly recipe that’s incredibly versatile and even better the next day.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small head of green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
1 cup cooked white rice
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 cup beef broth
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional: fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté the Beef and Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess grease if necessary. Add diced onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.

2. Add the Cabbage

Stir in the chopped cabbage. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until the cabbage starts to wilt.

3. Add Tomatoes, Rice, and Seasoning

Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, cooked rice, paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

4. Simmer

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors are melded together.

5. Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Variations

Cheesy Version: Top with shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese and bake until melted and bubbly.
Low-Carb Option: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter version.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter take.

Equipment You’ll Need

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon or spatula
Cutting board and knife
Measuring cups and spoons

Nutritional Information (Approx. Per Serving)

Calories: 310
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 7g

Storage Tips

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Freezer: Freeze cooled portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before serving.

My Cooking Experience

Unstuffed cabbage rolls have become a staple comfort food for me, especially on chilly nights when I want something hearty without a lot of cleanup. I love how everything cooks in one pot, and the flavors get even better as it sits. I often double the batch because it freezes beautifully and makes for easy future meals. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.

Conclusion

Best Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are the perfect solution for anyone who loves the taste of traditional cabbage rolls but not the extra work. Hearty, flavorful, and easy to prepare, this one-pot meal is sure to become a favorite for weeknight dinners and cozy family gatherings. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting flavors with half the effort!

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