Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Skillet: A Hearty One-Pan Meal

Craving the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but short on time? This Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Skillet is the perfect solution! 

It delivers all the classic taste of stuffed cabbage rolls in a fraction of the time, without the hassle of rolling leaves. This one-pan meal is easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Convenience: Less mess and easy cleanup.

• Quick and Easy: No rolling required, making it much faster than traditional cabbage rolls.

• Hearty and Nutritious: Loaded with protein, fiber, and wholesome ingredients.

• Family-Friendly: A comforting dish that pleases both kids and adults.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

• 1 cup beef broth (or water)

• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp dried oregano

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Meat

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and diced onions, cooking until they become soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

Step 2: Add Cabbage and Seasonings

Stir in the chopped cabbage, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to coat the cabbage with the seasonings.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Simmer

Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer. Cover and let cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage softens.

Step 4: Add Rice and Serve

Once the cabbage is tender, stir in the cooked rice and mix well. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.

Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as is for a low-carb meal or with a side of crusty bread.

• Pair with a simple green salad for added freshness.

• Add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.

Storage and Reheating Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

• Reheating: Warm up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen up the mixture.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe low-carb?

Yes! Simply omit the rice or replace it with cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

2. Can I use ground chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground chicken or turkey works well as a leaner alternative.

3. How do I make this dish vegetarian?

You can swap the meat for lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based ground crumbles while using vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

4. What type of cabbage works best?

Green cabbage is the most common choice, but Napa cabbage or savoy cabbage can also be used for a slightly different texture.

5. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the meat and onions first, then add all ingredients (except rice) to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in cooked rice before serving.

6. Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Simply reheat when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

This Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Skillet is the ultimate comfort food without the fuss. It’s a deliciously simple, nutritious meal perfect for busy nights. Whether you're looking for a quick dinner, meal prep option, or a new way to enjoy cabbage rolls, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and let us know how you like it!