Name: Unstuffed Cabbage Roll
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 2 pounds ground beef; 1 large onion, chopped; 1 small head cabbage, chopped; 2 cans (14.5 ounce) diced tomatoes; 1 can (8 ounce) tomato sauce; 0.5 cup water; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Why Are Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls a Favorite?

Unstuffed cabbage rolls offer a delightful twist on a classic comfort food, providing all the flavors we love without the fuss of rolling. This dish combines savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and rich tomatoes into a hearty casserole that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Many families, like mine, have found this recipe to be a crowd-pleaser—my kids, who normally turn their noses up at cabbage, can’t get enough of it!

One reason unstuffed cabbage rolls shine is their simplicity. You can whip them up in under an hour with just a few ingredients, making it an excellent meal option when time is short. Plus, the longer it sits, the more the flavors meld, meaning leftovers are just as delicious, if not more so. Pair it with rice or a simple side salad, and you have a wholesome dinner that satisfies.

For more insights on the benefits of cabbage, check out Healthline's article. And if you're curious about quick and nutritious weeknight meals, this resource has some fantastic ideas!

Ingredients for Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Essential ingredients for a hearty dish

To whip up a delicious unstuffed cabbage roll that your family will adore, you'll need a few key ingredients that come together harmoniously. These are the backbone of the dish:

2 pounds ground beef: This adds richness and protein to your meal.
1 large onion, chopped: Onions provide that essential flavor base.
1 small head of cabbage, chopped: The star of the show, it adds texture and nutrition.
2 (14.5 ounce) cans diced tomatoes: Juicy tomatoes enhance the dish's overall flavor and moisture.
1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce: This helps to bind everything together into a savory sauce.
½ cup water: A little water ensures your dish stays moist as it cooks.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a delightful aroma and taste that's hard to resist.
2 teaspoons salt and 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning this savory dish to perfection.

Optional ingredients to enhance flavor

While the essential ingredients create a solid foundation, feel free to get creative! Consider adding:

Turkey bacon or Chicken ham: For extra flavor and a bit of smokiness.
Cheese: Melting some cheese on top right before serving is a dreamy touch.
Chili flakes or Italian herbs: These can amp up the flavor profile to suit your taste buds.
Vegetables: Throw in bell peppers or carrots for added color and crunch.

These ingredients can help elevate your unstuffed cabbage roll experience! For more tips on cooking with cabbage, check out Cabbage & Other Cruciferous Veggies for insights into the nutritional benefits of your choices.

Preparing Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Unstuffed cabbage rolls are an incredibly satisfying dish that brings a comforting, home-cooked feel to the dinner table. The best part? It requires minimal effort, making it perfect for those busy weeknights. Let's dive into the preparation steps that will have your family raving about this easy yet delicious meal.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to have everything on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 pounds of ground beef
1 large onion, chopped
1 small head of cabbage, chopped
2 (14.5 ounce) cans of diced tomatoes
1 (8 ounce) can of tomato sauce
½ cup of water
2 cloves of garlic, minced
2 teaspoons of salt
1 teaspoon of ground black pepper

Having your ingredients prepped and in one place not only simplifies the process but also minimizes the chances of missing a critical item.

Brown the Beef and Onion

Start by heating a Dutch oven or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, stirring for about 5 to 7 minutes until the meat is browned and crumbly. Drain any excess grease. This step is crucial as browning the beef adds depth of flavor, making your unstuffed cabbage roll dish even tastier.

Cook the Cabbage and Add Remaining Ingredients

Next, it’s time to incorporate the star of the show: the cabbage! Stir in the chopped cabbage, along with the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. This is where the magic happens, and your kitchen will start to fill with a mouthwatering aroma.

Simmer for the Perfect Texture

Once boiling, cover your Dutch oven and reduce the heat to let it simmer. Allow it to cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal here is to achieve a tender texture for the cabbage while allowing all the wonderful flavors to meld together. You can adjust the seasoning as needed; if you like a bit more kick, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes!

Serve and Enjoy!

After the simmering time has passed, your unstuffed cabbage roll dish is ready to serve. Spoon it into bowls, and if desired, serve it with rice on the side for a wholesome weeknight meal. Your family or friends won’t believe how indulgent and flavorful this dish can be—especially when it’s so easy to make!

By following these simple steps, you'll have a delightful casserole that not only tastes great immediately but also gets better the longer it sits. For more delicious inspiration, don’t hesitate to explore other comforting casserole recipes on sites like Allrecipes or Epicurious. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Variations on Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Vegetarian unstuffed cabbage rolls

Looking for a veggie-packed twist on the classic unstuffed cabbage roll? Substitute the ground beef with lentils or quinoa. Add an array of vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini to enhance the flavor and nutrition. A sprinkle of feta cheese on top just before serving can elevate the dish, giving it a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the tender cabbage.

Spicy twist with added herbs and spices

If you're craving something a bit bolder, why not spice things up? Add crushed red pepper flakes to your unstuffed cabbage rolls for a kick, and toss in fresh herbs like oregano or dill for layers of flavor. A dash of smoked paprika can also bring subtle smokiness that enhances the dish. Serve alongside a zesty yogurt sauce for an added creamy element—perfect to cool off the heat!

For more ideas, explore various combinations of spices and herbs curated by chefs from Serious Eats or delve into additional recipes at Allrecipes.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

How to Reduce Cooking Time

To speed up your unstuffed cabbage roll prep, chop the cabbage finely. This not only helps it cook faster but also makes it blend seamlessly with the other ingredients. You can also use pre-cooked or frozen ground beef—just ensure it’s thoroughly heated before combining it with the veggies.

Pro Tips for Flavor Enhancement

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. Fresh herbs like thyme or dill can elevate the dish, while a dash of cayenne pepper brings a subtle heat without overpowering. Don't shy away from letting it sit for a few hours, as the flavors continue to meld and improve.

For more tips on cooking with cabbage, check out this guide.

Serving Suggestions for Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Pairing with rice

Serving your unstuffed cabbage roll with rice enhances the meal's comfort factor significantly. Consider using fluffy white rice, fragrant jasmine, or even brown rice for a nutty twist. You might also try cauliflower rice if you’re looking for a lighter, lower-carb option. Each type of rice pairs well, soaking up the rich flavors of the beef and tomatoes while providing a satisfying texture.

Best sides to complement the meal

To round out your dinner, think about adding some delightful sides like:

Garlic bread: Perfect for mopping up the savory sauce.
Steamed green beans: A fresh, bright contrast to the dish.
Coleslaw: Adds a crunchy, tangy element that's refreshing.
Cucumber salad: Cool and crisp, it complements the hearty casserole.

These choices not only enhance your unstuffed cabbage rolls but also bring vibrancy to your plate. Happy cooking!

Time Breakdown for Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Preparation Time

Getting dinner on the table doesn't have to be a hassle! For these unstuffed cabbage rolls, you'll spend about 15 minutes prepping. This includes chopping your veggies and gathering your ingredients. Fun fact: the more colorful your ingredients, the more appealing your dish will look!

Cooking Time

Once you’ve prepped everything, the cooking process takes around 35 minutes. You’ll be browning that delicious ground beef and letting the cabbage soak up all those flavors as it simmers. It's a wonderful opportunity to relax and perhaps catch up on a quick podcast or your favorite show!

Total Time

In just 50 minutes, you can have a comforting dish of unstuffed cabbage rolls ready to enjoy. Not only is this recipe quick to prepare, but it also offers a chance to create lasting memories around the dinner table with family or friends.

For more tips on simplifying your weeknight dinners, check out Food52's Meal Prep Guide. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Facts for Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Key nutritional highlights

Unstuffed cabbage rolls pack a nutritious punch! This dish is rich in protein thanks to the ground beef, while the cabbage brings in essential vitamins and fiber. Each serving offers a great balance for a busy weeknight meal, making it an appealing option for families.

Caloric content and other essential nutrients

A single serving contains approximately 398 calories, making it a hearty yet healthy choice. You’ll also benefit from:

Total Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 93mg
Sodium: 1294mg
Total Carbohydrates: 16g
Dietary Fiber: 5g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 29g
Vitamin C: 59mg (great for immunity!)
Calcium: 119mg
Iron: 7mg (important for blood health)
Potassium: 852mg (helps regulate fluids)

If you're looking for more insights about nutrient-rich meals, check out NutritionData for comprehensive dietary breakdowns and tips for balancing your meals. Make this unstuffed cabbage roll casserole a staple dish and enjoy guilt-free indulgence!

FAQs about Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely, using ground turkey is a great option for your unstuffed cabbage roll! It’s a leaner alternative, which means your dish will be lower in fat while still delivering fantastic flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly; ensure the turkey is cooked through before combining it with the other ingredients.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be easily stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. This dish often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors meld beautifully!

Can this recipe be made in advance?

Yes, you can prepare your unstuffed cabbage roll ahead of time! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge. Then, just pop it in the oven when you're ready to enjoy a comforting meal. Perfect for busy weeknights!

For more tips on meal prep, check out this helpful guide.

Conclusion on Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

In summary, unstuffed cabbage rolls are a delightful, hassle-free twist on a classic dish. Packed with flavor and nutrition, this recipe makes for a comforting weeknight dinner that even picky eaters will enjoy. Plus, it gets better with each reheating! Give it a try and savor the ease and taste.