Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This simplified version of cabbage rolls skips the rolling and stuffing, but keeps all the delicious flavor. It’s a fast and flavorful weeknight meal that requires just one pot, making cleanup a breeze. With its hearty ingredients and customizable flavor, it’s a go-to recipe for families and solo cooks alike.
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Ready in just 35 minutes
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Uses simple, wholesome ingredients
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Full of classic comfort food flavors
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One-pot convenience with minimal cleanup
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Great for meal prep and leftovers
Ingredients
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2 tablespoons canola oil
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1 pound 90/10 lean ground beef
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1 large yellow onion, chopped
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3 large garlic cloves, minced
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1 small head (about 1¼ pounds) green cabbage, chopped (about 8 cups)
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1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
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1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
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1¼ cups water
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3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
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2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
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2 teaspoons kosher salt
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½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
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1 (8.5 to 8.8-ounce) package microwavable white rice
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill and/or parsley, plus more for garnish
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Heat canola oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
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Add ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until browned and crumbly, about 5 minutes.
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Add chopped cabbage and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
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Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, water, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
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Reduce heat to medium and cover. Simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes until cabbage is tender.
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Stir in uncooked rice. Cook uncovered for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is heated through.
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Remove from heat. Stir in fresh herbs and garnish before serving.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: 4
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Preparation Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 25 minutes
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Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
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Meat options: Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or pork sausage.
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Vegetarian version: Replace meat with lentils, chickpeas, or a plant-based alternative.
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Rice alternatives: Use cooked white/brown rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
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Extra flavor: Add red pepper flakes or smoked paprika for heat.
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Different sauces: Use marinara or add Worcestershire sauce for deeper umami.
Storage/Reheating
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Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
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Reheat: Warm in a skillet with a splash of water or broth, or microwave in intervals until heated through.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked rice instead of microwavable?
Yes, any cooked white or brown rice will work well. Just stir it in and heat through.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. It stores and reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, it freezes beautifully in individual portions for up to 3 months.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, use lentils, beans, or plant-based meat instead of ground beef.
What kind of cabbage is best?
Green cabbage is standard, but savoy cabbage also works for a more tender texture.
Is it very tangy with the vinegar?
The vinegar adds a balanced tang. You can reduce the amount to your taste.
What can I serve with this dish?
Pair with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
How can I spice it up?
Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or a bit of cayenne for heat.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, but you may need to adjust the liquid by adding more water or broth.
Does it taste better the next day?
Yes, the flavors meld beautifully, making leftovers even more delicious.
Conclusion
Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are a quick and comforting take on a beloved classic. With all the rich flavors of traditional cabbage rolls and none of the rolling, this dish is perfect for weeknights, meal prep, or when you’re craving something cozy and hearty. Try it once and it might just become a staple in your dinner rotation.
Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Eastern European-inspired, American comfort food
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are the ultimate shortcut to classic comfort food. This hearty one-pot meal combines tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, and a tangy tomato sauce—all without the time-consuming task of rolling. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s a flavorful, nourishing dinner perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you’re craving a cozy, satisfying dish.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons canola oil
1 pound 90/10 lean ground beef
1 large yellow onion, chopped
3 large garlic cloves, minced
1 small head (about 1¼ pounds) green cabbage, chopped (about 8 cups)
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1¼ cups water
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
2 teaspoons kosher salt
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 (8.5 to 8.8-ounce) package microwavable white rice
2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill and/or parsley, plus more for garnish
Instructions
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Heat canola oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
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Add ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes until beef is browned and crumbled.
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Add chopped cabbage and cook another 5 minutes, until wilted.
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Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, water, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
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Reduce heat to medium, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Stir in uncooked rice and cook uncovered for 2 minutes, until rice is heated through.
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Remove from heat. Stir in fresh herbs and garnish before serving.
Notes
Swap ground beef for turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different take.
Use lentils or plant-based crumbles for a vegetarian version.
Substitute cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Spice it up with smoked paprika or red pepper flakes.
Serve with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
