There’s something magical about stepping into a kitchen filled with the aroma of simmering tomatoes and savory spices. It transports me back to my grandmother’s house, where she would spend hours in her tiny kitchen crafting her famous stuffed cabbage rolls. I remember standing on a little stool by the counter, watching her skillful hands roll each one with love, and the excitement that filled the air as the family gathered for dinner. Now, as an adult, I long to recreate that magic, but let’s be honest—sometimes life is just too busy for the traditional version! This is where my favorite recipe for Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls comes in. It captures all the beautiful flavors we love without the fuss of rolling. It’s comforting, easy to make, and perfect for those weeknights when you crave something heartwarming.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super easy to make: Simply chop, mix, and cook!
• Budget-friendly: Uses simple ingredients you likely already have.
• Comforting flavors: Everything you love about cabbage rolls in one pot.
• Weeknight friendly: Cooks in about 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.

Ingredients

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients. Gather the following:

• 1 large head of green cabbage, chopped (about 8 cups)
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown; leftovers work great here!)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves of fresh garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds more punch than powdered)
• 1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing
• Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional but lovely!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the world of deliciousness. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a pot of Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls ready in no time!

1. In a large pot or dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it starts to soften and turn translucent. You want just enough color to enhance the flavor without burning it!
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute. Your kitchen will smell heavenly at this point!
3. Next, add the ground beef or turkey. Cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as you go. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to season it with salt and pepper!
4. Once the meat is cooked, stir in the chopped cabbage. This might seem like a lot, but it will wilt down significantly. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender.
5. Now it’s time for the stars of the show: the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, and paprika. Stir it all together, making sure everything gets well combined.
6. Let this beautiful mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, uncovered. This allows all those flavors to meld perfectly. If you like it a touch saucier, feel free to add a splash of water or broth.
7. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Sometimes a little extra salt or a pinch more oregano can turn something good into something spectacular.
8. Once everything is well combined and heated through, serve it hot, topped with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. Voila! You’ve made Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls, bursting with all the flavors of the traditional dish in a much simpler form.

Pro Tips & Variations

Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun twists to keep your Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls fresh and exciting:

• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a kick of heat!
• Use Different Meats: Ground chicken, pork, or even plant-based meat substitutes can be great options.
• Add Beans: For extra protein and fiber, mix in a can of black beans or kidney beans.
• Top it Off: A sprinkle of shredded cheese just before serving can add creaminess and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

There’s nothing quite like a cozy bowl of Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls straight from the pot. I love to serve it with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad on the side. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, a mound of fluffy rice or buttery mashed potatoes pairs beautifully. And for those extra chilly nights? A warm cup of herbal tea or a glass of red wine is just the ticket to elevate the meal. Picture this: cozying up on the couch, surrounded by your favorite people, with bowls of this comforting dish in hand. It’s a scene that warms the heart!

Storage Tips

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (or if you’re making a double batch for meal prep, which I highly recommend!), here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Refrigerate: Store covered in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: This dish freezes beautifully! Portion it out into zip-top bags or airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label them!
• Reheat: When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if it seems a bit dry.

FAQs

Can I use frozen cabbage instead of fresh?

Sure! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before using. However, fresh cabbage gives a better texture and flavor, so if you can, go for it!

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply use a plant-based ground meat alternative and skip the Worcestershire sauce or find a vegan version. Additionally, you can replace the cheese with a dairy-free cheese option or omit it entirely.

What can I do if I don’t have crushed tomatoes?

If you’re running low on crushed tomatoes, you can use diced tomatoes instead! Just give them a quick blend in the food processor for a smoother consistency. You could also use tomato sauce, but you might want to add some extra seasonings for flavor.

How can I spice up leftovers?

Leftovers are fantastic for experimenting! Try adding different spices like cumin or coriander for a twist. Toss it into a taco or use it as a pizza topping for something fun and new.

Conclusion

I hope you feel inspired to bring the warmth of Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls into your kitchen! It’s quick to prepare, and each bite is a reminder of love-filled family dinners. If you make this dish, I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Drop a comment below and let me know your favorite add-ins or any fun twists you come up with. Happy cooking, friend!

Delicious Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe for Easy Dinner Bliss

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• Author: mery
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Try this easy recipe for unstuffed cabbage rolls perfect for a quick dinner Enjoy savory flavors and simple prep for delightful meals

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 large head of green cabbage, chopped (about 8 cups)

1 pound ground beef or turkey

1 cup cooked rice (white or brown; leftovers work great here!)

1 small onion, diced

3 cloves of fresh garlic, minced

1 (28-ounce) can of crushed tomatoes

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 tablespoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Olive oil for sautéing

Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional but lovely!)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

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Instructions

In a large pot or dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it starts to soften and turn translucent.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.

Add the ground beef or turkey. Cook it until it’s browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as you go, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it's tender.

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, and paprika until well combined.

Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, uncovered, allowing flavors to meld.

Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Serve hot, topped with fresh herbs.

Notes

A comforting and easy recipe for Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls that captures all the beautiful flavors of the traditional dish without the fuss of rolling.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6 servings
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5 grams
• Fat: 15 grams
• Carbohydrates: 32 grams
• Fiber: 6 grams
• Protein: 25 grams