Name: One-Pot Beef and Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lb ground beef; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 cup uncooked white rice; 1 small head green cabbage, chopped; 1 can crushed tomatoes (about 14 oz); 2 cups beef broth

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If you’ve ever craved the heartwarming flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but want to skip the fuss of individually wrapping each roll, then this One-Pot Beef and Cabbage Rolls Recipe is about to become your new favorite weeknight dinner. Picture tender ground beef and rice mingling with soft, flavorful cabbage, all simmered in a rich and tangy tomato sauce—all made effortlessly in one pot. This recipe delivers classic comfort in a streamlined way, perfect for those evenings when you want a satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of various cooking ingredients arranged neatly on a white marbled surface. At the center bottom, there is a white plate with a thick layer of ground meat, which is pinkish in color with some texture. Above it to the right is a clear glass bowl filled with white crumbled cheese. To the left, there is a whole round light green cabbage with smooth leaves. At the top right, an unpeeled brown onion rests on the surface. At the top center, a white bowl holds bright red tomato sauce with a smooth texture. Smaller white bowls are around the main items: one at the top left contains yellow oil, below it a small dish with dark red spice powder, another small bowl with light yellow liquid is placed to the right of the meat plate, and a small amount of red sauce fills a tiny white bowl near the bottom right. A single garlic clove is placed on the bottom left. The colors vary from red, green, white, yellow, and brown, creating a vibrant and fresh look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are simple pantry staples, each playing a vital role—from the fragrant garlic and onions that form the flavor base, to the hearty beef and nutritious cabbage that bring rustic comfort, and the spices and liquids that tie everything together with warmth and acidity.

Olive oil, 1 tbsp: For sautéing and adding a silky richness to the dish.
Onion, 1 diced: Provides sweetness and depth, softening to melt into the sauce.
Garlic, 2 cloves minced: Packs aromatic punch and balances the hearty beef.
Ground beef, 1 lb: The main protein that makes the dish satisfying and meaty.
Paprika, 1 tsp: Adds subtle smokiness and a warm red hue.
Dried thyme, ½ tsp: Brings an herbal note that complements the cabbage perfectly.
Salt, ½ tsp: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
Black pepper, ¼ tsp: Adds a gentle kick and depth to the spice profile.
Uncooked white rice, 1 cup: Absorbs the savory broth and bulks up the filling.
Green cabbage, 1 small head chopped: The star vegetable, tenderizing beautifully in the pot.
Crushed tomatoes, 1 can: Provides the luscious base of the cooking liquid.
Beef broth, 2 cups: Keeps the mixture moist and infuses it with extra meaty flavor.

How to Make One-Pot Beef and Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, releasing its natural sweetness. Then, add the minced garlic, letting it cook just until fragrant but not browned, which keeps that bright garlicky freshness alive in the dish.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef

Next comes the heart of the dish—the ground beef. Crumble it into the pot and cook until the pink disappears and the meat starts to brown nicely. This step is crucial because those browned bits bring a deep, savory richness to the whole dish.

Step 3: Add Spices for Warmth

Sprinkle in the paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together well so the spices coat the meat evenly. This mix creates the lovely layered flavor that will saturate every bite of the cabbage rolls.

Step 4: Combine Rice, Cabbage, Tomatoes, and Broth

Now, stir in the uncooked white rice along with the chopped cabbage, which will slowly soften and meld during cooking. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, which form the flavorful cooking liquid that the rice and vegetables absorb, making the whole pot wonderfully tender and saucy.

Step 5: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and cover the pot. Let everything simmer gently for 30 to 35 minutes—this time allows the rice to cook through and the cabbage to become tender without losing its shape. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and make sure all the flavors mingle beautifully.

Step 6: Serve Hot and Savory

Once the rice is tender and the cabbage is perfectly soft, give it a final stir, then serve immediately for a cozy meal that tastes like it simmered all day.

How to Serve One-Pot Beef and Cabbage Rolls Recipe

One-Pot Beef and Cabbage Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

To bring extra freshness and creaminess to your dish, dollop on some sour cream or plain Greek yogurt—it cuts the tomato’s acidity and adds a luscious texture. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or dill for a bright herbal kick that complements the rustic flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

This hearty, one-pot wonder pairs beautifully with simple sides like crusty bread to soak up the sauce or a crisp green salad to contrast the warm, soft textures. Mashed potatoes or buttered noodles add an extra layer of comfort and round out the meal nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the One-Pot Beef and Cabbage Rolls Recipe over creamy polenta or alongside roasted root vegetables. You can also turn leftovers into stuffed peppers by filling halved bell peppers with the mixture and baking until heated through—delicious and visually appealing!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better as they have time to meld even more, making for an even tastier meal the next day.

Freezing

This dish freezes wonderfully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it seems dry. You can also microwave portions, covered, stirring halfway through until heated evenly.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice works well, though it requires longer cooking—about 50 minutes—so adjust the simmer time accordingly and add extra broth if needed.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, swap the ground beef for plant-based meat crumbles or cooked lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian version.

Can I add other vegetables to the recipe?

Definitely! Carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms chopped finely can be added with the cabbage to boost nutrition and add extra flavor layers.

How do I know when the cabbage is cooked perfectly?

The cabbage should be tender but still hold its shape, not mushy. You can test by piercing it with a fork after about 30 minutes of simmering.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, it’s fantastic for meal prep since it stores and reheats well. Prepare a large batch, portion it out, and enjoy convenient, comforting meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

This One-Pot Beef and Cabbage Rolls Recipe is a beautiful marriage of flavors and textures that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Easy to make yet utterly satisfying, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something hearty without the hassle. I’m sure once you try it, it’ll become a cherished staple in your recipe collection just like it is in mine.