Description
This easy one-pot unstuffed cabbage rolls recipe delivers all the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the hassle. Ground beef, chopped cabbage, and a savory tomato sauce make this a cozy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- ½ small cabbage, chopped (about 6–7 cups)
- 1½ pounds ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (8‑ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (14‑ounce) can fire‑roasted diced tomatoes
- ½ cup beef stock
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon pepper
- 3–4 tablespoons tomato paste
- Fresh parsley, for serving
- Cooked rice, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium heat for about 5 minutes until the beef is browned and the onion is translucent. Drain any excess liquid.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef stock, paprika, thyme, brown sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Gently toss in the chopped cabbage and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cover the skillet, reduce heat to medium‑low, and simmer for 15 minutes. Stir, re-cover, and continue simmering for another 10 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
- Remove the lid, stir in 3 tablespoons tomato paste, and simmer uncovered for 5–10 more minutes until the sauce thickens. Add more tomato paste if a thicker sauce is desired.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve over cooked rice if using.
Notes
- Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Swap paprika for smoked paprika or add cayenne for a spicy kick.
- Double the recipe and freeze half for later use.
- Serve over cauliflower rice or enjoy on its own for a low-carb version.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 820mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
