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  • Author: Sue
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
  • Total Time: 40–45 minutes
  • Yield: 4–6 servings
  • Category: Dinner, Main Course
  • Method: Skillet, One-Pan
  • Cuisine: American, Eastern European-inspired

Description

This cabbage roll skillet recipe delivers all the savory flavor of traditional cabbage rolls in a quick, one-pan meal—no rolling required! Perfect for busy weeknights, it's hearty, comforting, and ready in under 45 minutes.


Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
  • 2 cups cooked white rice
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.
  3. Stir in diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened.
  4. Add chopped cabbage; cook 5–7 minutes until it begins to wilt.
  5. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  6. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, until cabbage is tender.
  7. Stir in cooked rice and heat through for 3–5 more minutes.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning; serve hot. Optional: top with sour cream.

Notes

  • Swap beef for turkey for variety.
  • Add cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat.
  • Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a lighter dish.
  • For added richness, stir in cream or top with cheese.
  • Leftovers keep well and taste even better the next day!