There’s nothing quite as cozy and nostalgic as cabbage rolls. But let’s be honest—they can be time-consuming to make. Enter the Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole, a hearty one-pan dish that gives you all the flavor of traditional cabbage rolls without the tedious rolling and stuffing. This recipe combines tender cabbage, juicy ground beef, aromatic onions, and comforting rice in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Everything bakes together into a bubbling, satisfying casserole that’s both wholesome and incredibly easy. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner when you’re craving comfort food but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

→ Hearty Base

• 1 pound ground beef

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 1 small cabbage, shredded

→ Flavor Builders

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice

• 1 cup cooked rice

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F so it’s perfectly hot when you’re ready to bake.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion until the meat is browned and the onion is soft and fragrant. Drain excess fat if necessary.

3. Add the shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes (with their juices), cooked rice, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.

4. Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.

5. Transfer the mixture into a baking dish and cover tightly with foil to keep it moist and evenly cooked.

6. Bake for 30–35 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the casserole is bubbling.

7. Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting, flavorful meal!

Nutrients (per serving, approx. 6 servings)

• Calories: ~280

• Protein: ~20g

• Carbohydrates: ~22g

• Fat: ~12g

• Fiber: ~4g

• Sodium: ~550mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish delivers the same nostalgic flavors as traditional cabbage rolls—savory beef, sweet-tender cabbage, and hearty rice—but without all the fuss. It’s budget-friendly, filling, and feeds the whole family with ease. Plus, it’s an excellent make-ahead recipe since it reheats beautifully.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Classic cabbage rolls are beloved in Eastern European, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cuisines. They’re typically made by rolling beef and rice inside blanched cabbage leaves, then simmering or baking in tomato sauce. This casserole is a modern shortcut, often called “lazy cabbage rolls,” created for busy home cooks who want the flavor without the labor. It preserves the comfort of the original while making the process simpler.

Ingredient Spotlight

The ground beef is the protein-packed star, providing savory richness. Cabbage adds bulk and natural sweetness, softening beautifully when baked. Rice brings heartiness and balances the dish, making it satisfying and complete. The tomatoes add tang and juiciness, while Worcestershire sauce delivers a savory depth. Finally, paprika and garlic powder give warmth and complexity without overpowering the other ingredients.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers should be cooled and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm portions in the microwave or cover with foil and reheat in a 350°F oven until hot. This casserole also freezes very well—just portion into freezer-safe containers, freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Store cooled leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days, where the flavors actually continue to develop and improve. For meal prep, portion into individual containers that reheat easily in the microwave with a splash of broth to restore moisture. The dish freezes beautifully for up to three months when stored in sealed containers, thawing overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Common Variations to Try

Want to switch things up? Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork instead of beef for a lighter or different flavor profile. Try swapping rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version. Add bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to sneak in extra vegetables. You can also top the casserole with shredded cheese before baking for a cheesy twist.

Pairing Recommendations

This casserole pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or garlic rolls to soak up the tomato juices. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish. For drinks, pair with a glass of red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon, or for a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with lemon works beautifully.

Health Benefits

This recipe is not just comforting—it’s also nutrient-rich. Cabbage is loaded with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, while beef provides protein and iron. Using brown rice or cauliflower rice can boost fiber and lower carbs. Because the dish is baked and not fried, it’s lighter while still hearty and filling.

Conclusion

Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole is a deliciously simple way to enjoy the flavors of a beloved traditional dish without the effort of rolling. It’s perfect for busy families, meal prep, or anyone craving a warm and hearty dinner. With its rich beef, tender cabbage, and tomato-based flavor, it’s the definition of comfort food—made easy. Once you try it, you’ll want to keep this recipe in your rotation all year long.

This savory cabbage beef bake represents the epitome of comfort food cooking, where simple ingredients combine to create something much greater than the sum of their parts. Whether you’re honoring family traditions, feeding growing teenagers, or creating satisfying meals that warm both body and soul, this reliable recipe delivers consistent success that brings people together around the dinner table for shared comfort and nourishment.