One-Pan Unstuffed Ground Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to One-Pan Unstuffed Ground Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole
If you’re looking for a simple yet hearty meal that brings the family together, the One-Pan Unstuffed Ground Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole is the perfect choice! This dish captures all the delicious flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the fuss of rolling each one. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
A Personal Story Behind My One-Pan Unstuffed Ground Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Journey
Growing up, cabbage rolls were a staple in my household. My grandmother would spend hours preparing them, and the aroma would fill the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. As I got older, I wanted to replicate that comforting experience but with a simpler approach. That’s when I discovered this one-pan recipe that gives all the nostalgic flavors of cabbage rolls, minus the hassle!
What Makes This One-Pan Unstuffed Ground Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe Special?
This casserole stands out because it combines the rich flavors of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and spices in a one-pan dish. It’s a great option for busy weeknights, as it requires minimal prep and cleanup. Plus, you can easily adjust the ingredients based on what you have on hand, making it a versatile recipe for any family.
The Full One-Pan Unstuffed Ground Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 sweet onion, chopped
- 1 orange bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, chopped
- 14 oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small head green cabbage, cored and chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or jack cheese
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, onion, and bell pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Tip: Make sure to break up the beef as it cooks for even browning.
- Add garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Place chopped cabbage on top of the beef mixture. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes until the cabbage is tender. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the cooked mixture. Cover again and let cook until the cheese melts, about 3-5 minutes.
- Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious cabbage and beef skillet!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for One-Pan Unstuffed Ground Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole
This casserole pairs wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a light salad to balance the meal. You can also customize it by adding other vegetables such as carrots or zucchini. For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or using spicy sausage instead of ground beef. This dish is also great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for several days!
Frequently Asked Questions About One-Pan Unstuffed Ground Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole
Can I use other types of meat? Yes! While this recipe calls for ground beef, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook it. Just add the cheese right before serving.
Recipe Stats
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories per Serving: 380
Servings: 4
One-Pan Unstuffed Ground Beef Cabbage Roll Casserole
Equipment
- Large Pan Use a pan with a lid for best results.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium sweet onion, chopped
- 1 medium orange bell pepper, seeded and chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 14 oz fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 small head green cabbage, cored and chopped
- 2 cups shredded cheddar or jack cheese
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, onion, and bell pepper. Cook until the beef is browned and onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Tip: Make sure to break up the beef as it cooks for even browning.
- Add garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, smoked paprika, oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
- Place chopped cabbage on top of the beef mixture. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes until the cabbage is tender. Tip: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese over the cooked mixture. Cover again and let cook until the cheese melts, about 3-5 minutes.
- Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious cabbage and beef skillet!