Unstuffed Ground Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole One-Pan

The aroma of savory ground beef mingled with the vibrant scent of fresh cabbage and spices wafts through the kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere. This Unstuffed Ground Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole One-Pan recipe comes together in just under an hour and is a comforting meal that combines all the classic flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls without the fuss of rolling them. It’s straightforward, filling, and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.

This dish is ideal for families who need nutritious meals on busy nights. It’s also great for meal prep—make it ahead and store it for a quick reheat throughout the week. Once you try this dish, you’ll see how easy and delicious a home-cooked meal can be.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The combination of ground beef and tender cabbage creates a hearty texture that satisfies.
• It’s a one-pan dish, simplifying cleanup time after cooking.
• Melting cheese on top adds a creamy finish that ties all the flavors together.
• This recipe is versatile and can be customized with various spices and peppers.

What You’ll Need

Gather everything you need before starting this simple yet delicious recipe.

For the Casserole

• 2 small onions, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
• 1 green bell pepper (can use red or yellow)
• 1 pound of lean ground beef (I use Butcher Box Ground Beef)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz can)
• Salt and pepper to taste (I do not add any salt when cooking; just the pepper for heart health)
• 1/2 a large head of cabbage, chopped into bite-size pieces
• 1 to 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese (can use Monterey jack cheese)

Note: Ground turkey can be used instead of beef for a lighter version.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use sweet potatoes for a different vegetable base.
• Replace shredded cheese with a dairy-free alternative.
• Add cooked rice or quinoa for extra heartiness.
• Any color of bell pepper works well.

How to Make It

Follow these steps for a delicious one-pan meal.

Prepare the Vegetables

Dice the onions and bell peppers, and mince the garlic. Remove the outer leaves and core from half of the cabbage, then chop it into bite-size pieces.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large deep-sided skillet or Dutch oven, heat to medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, onions, and minced garlic. Once the onions are cooking and fragrant, add the diced bell pepper. When the mixture is soft, remove it from the pan and set aside.

Brown the Beef

Add the second tablespoon of olive oil to the pan and then add the ground beef. Brown the beef, breaking it into small pieces, and cook until thoroughly cooked through.

Season the Beef

Top the browned beef with onion powder, oregano, paprika, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to combine the flavors.

Cook the Cabbage

Add the chopped cabbage to the beef mixture, cover, and cook on medium heat for 10 minutes. Stir it and continue cooking for another 15 minutes, until the cabbage is wilted and tender.

Melt the Cheese

Once the cabbage is cooked through, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top and let it melt. Serve warm for a satisfying meal.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Yes, it freezes well for busy days.
Reheat: Microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.

Tips for Best Results

• Make sure to chop the cabbage into even bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
• Use lean ground beef to keep the dish healthier.
• Don’t rush the cooking; letting the flavors meld elevates the taste.
• Feel free to experiment with different spices for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.
• Serve alongside a fresh salad for added crunch.
• Enjoy it as a leftover lunch option the next day.