Easy Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls: One-Pot Comfort Meal in Under an Hour

Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Unstuffed cabbage rolls are a deconstructed twist on classic Eastern European stuffed cabbage rolls, offering all the savory flavors without the fuss. This hearty casserole features ground beef, tender cabbage, garlic, and tangy tomatoes in a cozy weeknight dinner that’s ready in under an hour.

Why You’ll Love This Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Casserole

• Quick and easy: Prep and bake in just 50 minutes.
• Deconstructed comfort: All the taste of stuffed cabbage without rolling.
• Family favorite: A crowd-pleasing bowl of ground beef and cabbage goodness.
• One-dish meal: Minimal cleanup for busy weeknights.

Ingredients for Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 head green cabbage, cored and chopped (about 1.5 pounds)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1½ cups beef broth or water
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no pink remains. Season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook for 10 minutes.
5. Uncover and fold in the chopped cabbage until it’s evenly distributed. Transfer everything to the prepared baking dish, smoothing out the top.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cabbage is soft.
7. Remove the foil and bake an additional 5 minutes to let any excess liquid evaporate.
8. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Recipe Tips and Variations

• Swap proteins: Try ground turkey or pork for a lighter twist.
• Extra veggies: Add shredded carrots or bell peppers for more color and nutrition.
• Spice it up: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.
• Meal prep: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 398 kcal
• Protein: 29 g
• Carbohydrates: 16 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 10 g
• Fat: 24 g (Saturated Fat: 9 g)
• Cholesterol: 93 mg
• Sodium: 1294 mg

Enjoy these comforting unstuffed cabbage rolls with your family on cozy weeknights!

Adapted from Allrecipes