Whole30 Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Who loves stuffed cabbage? Not my husband but he loves this Unstuffed Cabbage Roll!  We just won’t tell him it's the same thing! This recipe tastes just like those delicious little cabbage rolls with so little work! It makes a nice sized batch and there are always leftovers which make a nice cozy lunch for during the week. If you love this recipe you may like to try this Gnocchi Bolognese or this Chicken Sausage and Cabbage.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Whole30 Unstuffed Cabbage Roll is such a winner because it's EASY - it's the kind of dinner magic that happens all in one skillet. Easy to prep and easy to clean up. What could be better? It makes a big pan full so there is plenty left over for lunches or even to freeze for another time! It's a win-win for a laid-back, tasty dinner that ticks all the boxes for you and your family.

Ingredients You Will Need

Savoy Cabbage: This winter variety of cabbage is similar to green cabbage bit a bit milder and sweeter with leaves that are looser and somewhat crinkled.

Ground Beef: Ground beef works wonders in this Unstuffed Cabbage Roll dish, imparting a hearty flavor and juicy texture that perfectly complements the rich, savory notes of the sauce.

Onion: I prefer yellow onion for this recipe as it has a bolder flavor than sweet onions but you can certainly use sweet if you prefer.

Garlic: Fresh is best for obtaining a little stronger touch of garlic flavor than the sweeter touch you would obtain from powder.

Diced Tomatoes: I like using fire roasted diced tomatoes. They are charred over an open flame and add a smoky flavor to the dish. They can be purchased canned and are ready to use making it super easy and quick. You can use regular tomatoes as well.

Tomato Sauce: Tomato sauce can refer to many different sauces made primarily from tomatoes. Use your favorite canned or jarred sauce for this recipe or try my roasted tomato sauce.

Cauliflower Rice: Cauliflower rice is raw cauliflower that has been pulsed in a food processor till it is small enough to resemble grains of rice.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Olive oil stands out as an excellent choice for sautéing, adding richness and enhancing the natural flavors of foods with its versatility.

Tomato Paste: I like to use tomato paste as it has a stronger flavor than tomato sauce and also acts as a thickener for the sauce.

Balsamic Vinegar: Balsamic is the best choice for this recipe as it lends an intense vinegar flavor that can be reminiscent of red wine when used in a sauce.

Oregano: Unlike it's fresh variety dried oregano is more concentrated and pungent adding a depth of flavor when added to soups and tomato sauces.

Thyme: Is a pungent herb that can withstand longer cooking times in stews and soups and adds a depth of flavor.

Salt and Pepper: Salt enhances and balances flavors, while ground black pepper adds a gentle heat, improving the overall flavor of a dish.

Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika introduces a distinct smoky flavor that complements the other spices, adding depth and a unique taste.

Instructions

Cook the beef: Heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan and then add your beef breaking it apart so it is crumbly and cooking till it is browned.

Add the aromatics: Add onions, garlic and spices stirring constantly for a few minutes.

Cook the cabbage: Add your cabbage, tomatoes, sauce and balsamic vinegar, stirring to combine.

Add the cauliflower rice: Add the tomato paste and cauliflower rice, stirring in.

Finish cooking: Cover and simmer till cabbage begins to soften then uncover and cook till the juice evaporates.

Enjoy!

Recipe Tips and Tricks

Chop the cabbage ahead of time: I will sometimes chop the cabbage up on the weekend and store it in a glass container so it is ready to grab on a week night cutting down on prep time!

Canned tomatoes and sauce: While I enjoy my homemade roasted tomato sauce in this recipe, buying canned is the perfect option to get this Unstuffed Cabbage Roll on the table quicker!

Recipe Variations

Green Cabbage: You can swap green cabbage for savoy cabbage will be a little more cost effective and will still taste delicious!

Ground Chicken: You can swap ground chicken for the ground beef if you like for a milder flavored dish.

Storage Tips

To store the Unstuffed Cabbage Roll, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 6 months.

FAQs About Whole30 Unstuffed Cabbage Roll

What can I do with the leftover cabbage?

I love to shred it and use it in my Egg Roll In a Bowl recipe or make one of my many coleslaw recipes like this Whole30 Coleslaw.

How long before raw cabbage goes bad?

If the cabbage is properly stored it can last 3 weeks up to 2 months in your refrigerator!