Unstuffed Cabbage Roll

Unstuffed cabbage roll is a hearty, deconstructed version of the classic cabbage roll casserole. Packed with seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, and savory tomato sauce, this easy one-pot dish is the perfect comfort food for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• All the flavor of traditional cabbage rolls without the rolling
• Simple one-pot preparation for easy cleanup
• Budget-friendly with pantry staples
• Perfect for meal prep or make-ahead dinners
• Even tastier the next day

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 small head cabbage, chopped
• 2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes
• 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Directions

1. Heat a Dutch oven or large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook and stir ground beef and onion until browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain and discard any excess grease.
2. Add chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
4. Serve hot, optionally over rice.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños.
• Lower fat: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
• Add grains: Stir in cooked rice, quinoa, or barley.
• Vegetarian option: Use plant-based meat or lentils in place of ground beef.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through. For freezing, allow the dish to cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I add rice directly to the pot?

Yes, but use pre-cooked rice to avoid over- or undercooking. Stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it is naturally low in carbs, but check labels on tomato products to ensure no added sugars.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Brown the meat first, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours.

What type of cabbage works best?

Green cabbage is standard, but you can also use savoy or napa cabbage for a softer texture.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, use about 4 to 5 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes and adjust cooking time if needed.

How do I prevent it from getting watery?

Drain the beef well and simmer uncovered for the last few minutes to reduce excess liquid.

Does this recipe freeze well?

Yes, it freezes beautifully. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing.

What side dishes go well with unstuffed cabbage rolls?

Serve with rice, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad.

Can I add cheese?

Sure! Add shredded cheese just before serving for extra richness.

How do I reheat from frozen?

Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until hot.

Conclusion

Unstuffed cabbage roll is the ultimate shortcut to enjoying the classic flavors of cabbage rolls without the hassle. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or stocking your freezer with leftovers, this one-pot wonder is a dependable and delicious addition to your weekly dinner routine.

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