Cabbage rolls are a timeless comfort food in many cultures, but traditional versions can be time-consuming to prepare. That’s where this unstuffed cabbage roll casserole comes in—a hearty, no-fuss twist on the classic. It delivers all the satisfying flavor of cabbage rolls without the rolling, layering, or complicated prep.
This dish combines tender chopped cabbage, savory ground beef, soft rice, and a rich tomato-beef broth that soaks into every bite. Everything is baked together in one pan, making cleanup easy and the process beginner-friendly. It’s the kind of meal that fills the house with warmth and aroma—perfect for chilly nights, potlucks, or feeding a hungry family on a budget.
What’s especially great about this recipe is how it scales. Whether you’re cooking for four or doubling it for a crowd, the ingredients remain affordable and accessible. If you want to make it your own, feel free to mix in cheese, herbs, or even a dash of hot sauce. This unstuffed cabbage bake will have everyone coming back for seconds—and maybe even asking for the recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 3.5 pounds chopped cabbage
- 29 ounces canned tomato sauce
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 28 ounces canned beef broth
Servings: 8
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and gather all your ingredients. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook and stir the ground beef until it’s browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked beef with chopped cabbage, tomato sauce, onion, rice, and salt. Stir everything until well blended. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish, then slowly pour the beef broth over the top, allowing it to sink in. Cover the dish tightly and bake for 1 hour. Remove the cover, stir the mixture well, then cover again and bake for an additional 20 to 30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the rice is fully cooked. Serve hot and enjoy this hearty, no-fuss meal.
Nutritional and Dietary Information
This recipe is protein-rich thanks to the ground beef and includes a good dose of vegetables from the cabbage. The rice adds carbohydrates, making it filling and balanced for a main dish. It’s gluten-free if you check your broth and tomato sauce labels. However, it may be high in sodium and saturated fats, so those on heart-healthy or low-sodium diets should adjust seasoning and ingredient brands accordingly.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring
Did this recipe bring comfort to your table? If so, share it with family or friends who appreciate easy, homemade meals. Leave a comment with your own twist or favorite side dish pairing. Every shared recipe and kind word keeps the community inspired and delicious ideas flowing. Let’s keep cooking, together.