Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe
This easy one-pot unstuffed cabbage rolls recipe features ground beef, chopped cabbage, tomatoes, garlic, and onion simmered together for a hearty, comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
6 Servings
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 large onion finely chopped
- 1 small head green cabbage roughly chopped
- 2 14.5-ounce cans diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 8-ounce can tomato sauce
- ½ cup water
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
Brown the Ground Beef and Onion:
- In a large Dutch oven or deep-sided skillet, cook the ground beef and chopped onion over medium-high heat until the beef is no longer pink and the onions are softened—approximately 5 to 7 minutes. Drain and discard excess grease.
Add Remaining Ingredients:
- Incorporate the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, water, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper into the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
Simmer the Mixture:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and allow it to simmer for approximately 30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally during cooking to ensure even heat distribution and prevent sticking.
Serve:
- Once the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded, remove from heat. Serve hot as is, or with rice or crusty bread for a more complete meal.
Notes
To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure the canned tomato products (diced tomatoes and tomato sauce) are labeled gluten-free, as some brands may include additives or thickeners that contain gluten. Also, double-check seasonings and any broth used (if added) for hidden gluten-containing ingredients. Serve with gluten-free bread or rice to keep the entire meal gluten-friendly.