Unstuffed Cabbage In A Pot
A hearty, comforting dish combining ground beef, cabbage, rice, and tomato sauce, perfect for a quick, flavorful meal that appeals to family and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook and drain the ground beef.
- Add chopped onions, tomato sauce or Ro-Tel tomatoes, salt, and pepper to the beef. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add shredded cabbage and water to the mixture.
- Bring to a boil, then cover and cook until the cabbage and rice are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding garlic or herbs like thyme and basil. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or tempeh. Feel free to use different types of cabbage, such as Napa or Savoy, for a unique twist. Adjust the rice quantity based on your desired texture; more rice will make it heartier, like in Beef Bean Casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the unstuffed cabbage hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream or fresh herbs. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. You might also consider serving it alongside Momma'S Supper for a comforting family dinner. For a heartier meal, consider including roasted potatoes as a side.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Unstuffed Cabbage In A Pot contains roughly 1735 calories, with 89g protein, 175g carbohydrates, and 76g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (178% of the Daily Value), iron (93% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (86% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even pork can be great substitutes. If you're looking for a plant-based option, try using lentils or a meat substitute like Beyond Meat. Just ensure the cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of meat you choose.
How long does it take to cook the cabbage and rice?
Typically, it will take about 20-25 minutes for the cabbage to become tender and the rice to cook through. Keep an eye on it; you may need to adjust the cooking time based on your stove and the size of your cabbage pieces.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Just follow the instructions, let it cool, and then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stove or in the oven until warmed through. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).