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Unstuffed cabbage rolls in a skillet with ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce.

Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls One Pot Wonder

This is a deconstructed, simplified version of classic cabbage rolls, delivering all the comforting flavors in a single pot. Tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and rice simmer together in a sweet and tangy tomato sauce for a hearty, fuss-free meal. It's the perfect cozy dinner for any busy night.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Eastern European
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound lean ground beef 90/10
  • 1 medium head green cabbage about 2 lbs
  • 1/2 cup beef broth or water
  • 3/4 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot with lid
  • Wooden spoon
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened.
  2. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook for 5-7 minutes until no pink remains. Season with salt and pepper. Drain excess fat if desired.
  4. Add all chopped cabbage to the pot. Stir and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage has wilted down by about half.
  5. To the pot, add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, uncooked rice, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, paprika, and thyme. Stir thoroughly to combine, ensuring rice is submerged.
  6. Bring mixture just to a boil, then immediately reduce heat to low. Cover pot with a tight-fitting lid.
  7. Simmer gently for 25-30 minutes. Do not stir during this time.
  8. Remove pot from heat. Let stand, covered, for 5-10 minutes.
  9. Give the dish a final gentle stir. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Notes

For best results, do not skip wilting the cabbage or stir during simmering. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth. For variations, try adding smoked paprika and red pepper flakes, a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, or stir in shredded cheese during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Ground turkey or a plant-based meat substitute can be used instead of beef.