Unstuffed Cabbage is a hearty, one-pot meal bursting with the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls—minus the extra prep work. This simplified recipe features tender green cabbage, savory ground beef and pork, and aromatic garlic and onions simmered in a rich tomato-based broth. With fluffy white rice cooked directly in the pot, every bite is infused with bold seasonings like paprika and bay leaf for a deliciously satisfying dish. Ready in under an hour, this family-friendly dinner is perfect for busy weeknights. Serve it warm with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor! Ideal for anyone seeking an easy cabbage recipe, a cozy winter meal, or a hassle-free way to enjoy classic flavors without rolling a single leaf.
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the ground beef and ground pork to the pot. Cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and stir well to combine with the meat mixture. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage starts to soften.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix in the uncooked rice, paprika, salt, black pepper, and bay leaf.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is cooked and the cabbage is tender.
Remove and discard the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
Calories |
3130 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 164.3 g | 211% | |
| Saturated Fat | 55.4 g | 277% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 525 mg | 175% | |
| Sodium | 6750 mg | 293% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 250.8 g | 91% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 38.4 g | 137% | |
| Total Sugars | 50.1 g | ||
| Protein | 173.2 g | 346% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 821 mg | 63% | |
| Iron | 21.4 mg | 119% | |
| Potassium | 4429 mg | 94% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.