If you're craving comfort food that’s both hearty and hassle-free, look no further than this One Pot Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe! Imagine all the flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls, but without the fuss of rolling and baking. This American favorite combines tender ground beef, vibrant cabbage, and fluffy rice, all simmered together in a savory tomato sauce that will make your taste buds dance. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish not only comes together in just 45 minutes but also serves up to six hungry mouths. Ready to discover how to whip up this delicious one-pot wonder? Let’s dive in!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- Ground beef
- Cabbage
- Rice
- Tomato sauce
- Onion
- Garlic
- Salt
- Pepper
- Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the onion and garlic finely, and set them aside. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Cut the cabbage into quarters and remove the core, then chop it into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing them until they are soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, stirring occasionally, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
- Once the beef is browned, add the chopped cabbage to the pot. Stir well to combine, allowing the cabbage to wilt slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
- Next, add the rinsed rice to the pot along with the tomato sauce, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Pour in enough water or beef broth to cover the mixture, about 1-2 cups, depending on how much liquid is absorbed by the rice. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes. Check occasionally to ensure it doesn't stick to the bottom, adding a little more water if necessary.
- After the cooking time is up, remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. This will allow the rice to absorb any remaining liquid.
- Fluff the mixture with a fork, tasting and adjusting the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop your onion and garlic the night before, and rinse the rice in advance. This will streamline your cooking process and make it even quicker to get dinner on the table.
- Beef Alternatives: Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. You can also use plant-based meat if you're looking for a vegetarian option.
- Flavor Boost: Enhance the flavor by adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the meat while it's browning. This adds depth and a lovely smokiness to the dish.
- Cabbage Variety: If you prefer a different texture, try using Savoy cabbage instead of green cabbage. It has a slightly sweeter flavor and a more tender leaf.
- Check Liquid Levels: Keep an eye on the pot while it simmers. If it looks dry, add a little more water or broth to prevent sticking and ensure the rice cooks perfectly.
- Garnish for Freshness: Serve your unstuffed cabbage rolls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for an extra pop of color and flavor.
- Leftover Magic: This dish makes excellent leftovers! Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days, and simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 373kcal
Carbohydrates: 41g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 53mg
