Name: Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup diced onion; 1 cup diced red bell pepper; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained; 2 cups beef stock or broth; 1 cup long grain rice; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 4 cups chopped green cabbage; 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

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Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Skillet is a deconstructed take on the classic cabbage roll, packed with savory beef, rice, and cabbage in a flavorful tomato sauce. This one-pan meal is hearty, easy to make, and perfect for weeknight dinners.

Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Skillet

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

All the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the fuss of rolling

One-pan meal for easy cleanup
Quick and easy—ready in just 30 minutes
Savory ground beef and tender cabbage with melted mozzarella
Balanced with herbs, spices, and a touch of Worcestershire and soy sauce

Comforting and hearty, perfect for family dinners
Can be customized with different meats or cheese
Makes great leftovers
Naturally gluten-free
Easy to adjust spice levels and seasonings

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 pound ground beef
1 cup onion, diced
1 cup red bell pepper, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
2 cups beef stock or broth
1 cup long grain rice
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
4 cups green cabbage, chopped
1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Directions

Heat a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, onion, and red bell pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Drain excess grease.
Stir in garlic, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and salt. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add diced tomatoes, rice, beef stock, chopped cabbage, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice and cabbage are tender.
Remove the lid, sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the top, cover, and let the cheese melt.

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based meat.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.

Cheese Lovers: Mix in cheddar or Parmesan along with mozzarella.
Brown Rice: Use brown rice, but increase cooking time and liquid slightly.
Cabbage Variations: Use Napa cabbage or Savoy for a milder flavor.

Extra Veggies: Add carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms for more texture and nutrition.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months.
Reheat (Stovetop): Reheat over medium heat until warmed through.

Reheat (Microwave): Heat individual portions in 1–2 minute intervals.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken works well in this recipe.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep ingredients and cook up to step 4, then refrigerate and finish cooking when ready.

Can I use frozen cabbage?

Yes, but reduce cooking time slightly and make sure excess water is drained.

Can I use different cheese?

Mozzarella is mild, but cheddar or a blend of cheeses also works.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, if using gluten-free soy sauce.

Can I make it spicier?

Add crushed red pepper, cayenne, or hot sauce to taste.

Can I use cauliflower rice?

Yes, use cauliflower rice and reduce cooking time accordingly.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, it freezes well in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

How do I prevent the cheese from getting rubbery?

Add the cheese at the end and allow it to melt just until soft, then serve immediately.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, double all ingredients and use a larger skillet or Dutch oven.

Conclusion

Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Skillet is a fast, flavorful, and comforting meal that captures the essence of classic cabbage rolls without the extra work. With tender beef, cabbage, rice, and melted cheese in a savory tomato sauce, it’s perfect for a simple weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week.