Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

image of fresh green cabbage ground beef brown rice diced tomatoes tomato sauce onion garlic olive oil paprika oregano parsley arranged on white marble counter in clear glass bowls rustic wooden kitchen tools soft daylight

adam saha

Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

A comforting, one-pot dish that captures the classic flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the tedious rolling. Savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and rice are simmered in a rich tomato sauce for a hearty, family-friendly meal.

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Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

For the Base

1.5 lbs ground beef 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio
1 large head green cabbage cored and chopped
1 cup long grain white rice rinsed
1 medium yellow onion diced
4 cloves garlic minced
2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

For the Sauce

1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes with juice
2 cups beef broth
1 tbsp brown sugar
2 tbsp paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/4 tsp ground allspice
1/4 cup sauerkraut optional, drained
To taste salt and black pepper

For Serving

1/4 cup fresh dill chopped
1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

Large Dutch Oven or Deep Skillet
cutting board,
Chef's Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons

Method

Prepare the Base

Build the Casserole

Bake or Simmer

Notes

For a low-carb version, substitute cauliflower rice for the white rice and reduce cooking time by 10-15 minutes. Leftovers taste even better the next day and freeze well for up to 3 months.