Unstuffed Cabbage Dinner Recipe

Whip up a delightful dinner with the Unstuffed Cabbage Dinner Delight. This dish takes the classic flavors of stuffed cabbage and simplifies the process, turning it into an easy one-pot meal. The perfect blend of ground beef, cabbage, and rice, it's seasoned to perfection and simmered in a savory broth. A comfort food classic that's sure to satisfy.

Photos of Unstuffed Cabbage Dinner Recipe

The ingredients required for this recipe are fairly common and should be easily available in your local supermarket. However, the one item that might not be in your pantry is the tomato-vegetable juice cocktail. It adds a unique flavor to the dish and also contributes to the overall liquid content, assisting in the cooking process. If you can’t find it, tomato juice is a decent substitute.

Unstuffed Cabbage Dinner Delight Ingredients

Ground beef: The key protein in this dish. It's sautéed until browned, which brings out its rich, savory flavor.

Garlic powder: Adds a subtle hint of garlic that complements the beef beautifully.

Black pepper: Brings a bit of heat to the dish.

Beef broth: Acts as the liquid base and contributes to the savory flavor of the dish.

Onion soup mix: Enhances the dish with its complex savory flavors.

Onion: Adds a bit of sweetness and texture to the dish.

White rice: Absorbs the flavorful broth and gives the dish bulk.

Green cabbage: Its slight crunch and mild flavor pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.

Tomato-vegetable juice cocktail: Adds a unique, slightly sweet flavor and contributes to the overall liquid content.

One reader, Braden Koontz says:

This unstuffed cabbage dinner delight is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible and the dish is so easy to make. It's a perfect comfort food that's both hearty and healthy. I love how the cabbage and beef blend together, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. Highly recommended!

Braden Koontz

Key Techniques for Preparing Unstuffed Cabbage Dinner Delight

How to brown ground beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, crumble the ground beef and add the onion, garlic powder, and pepper. Cook and stir until the beef is evenly browned, then drain off the excess grease.

How to simmer: After adding the rice, cabbage, and vegetable juice cocktail to the skillet, stir everything together. Cover the skillet and simmer over low heat for 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

How To Make Unstuffed Cabbage Dinner

This recipe is more to the practical side. We are making unstuffed cabbage – instead of baking the cabbage rolls together, we are turning it into a stew. It saves more time but it is equally as tasty.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking: 30 minutes

Total: 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbGround Beef
¾ tspgarlic powder
1tspground black pepper
14.5ozlow-sodium beef broth
1ozdry onion soup mix
½ smallonionchopped
1cupinstant white rice
2cupscoarsely shredded green cabbage
1½ cuptomato-vegetable juice cocktail

Instructions

Crumble the ground beef into a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, and season with garlic powder and pepper Cook and stir until the beef is evenly browned. Drain off the excess grease.
Pour the beef broth and onion soup, mix into the skillet with the beef, and stir to blend. Bring to a boil, then add the rice, cabbage, and vegetable juice cocktail.
Stir together, then cover and simmer over low heat for 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Nutrition

Calories: 524.82kcal
Fat: 23.23g
Saturated Fat: 8.75g
Trans Fat: 1.34g
Monounsaturated Fat: 10.20g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.73g
Carbohydrates: 50.62g
Fiber: 2.21g
Sugar: 3.06g
Protein: 26.60g
Cholesterol: 80.51mg
Sodium: 858.13mg
Calcium: 65.88mg
Potassium: 781.73mg
Iron: 3.45mg
Vitamin A: 22.16µg
Vitamin C: 18.19mg

Expert Tip for Perfecting Your Unstuffed Cabbage Dinner

When preparing the cabbage, make sure to shred it coarsely. This will not only give your dish a nice texture, but it will also allow the cabbage to absorb the flavors from the beef broth and vegetable juice cocktail more effectively. Additionally, when simmering the mixture, keep the heat low and cover the skillet. This will ensure that the rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the wonderful flavors in the skillet. Remember, patience is key when simmering - rushing this process could result in undercooked rice or a dish that's too liquidy.

Time-Saving Hacks for Preparing This Cabbage Dinner Recipe

Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.

One-pot wonders: Opt for recipes that require minimal dishes and cook everything in a single pot for easy cleanup.

Batch cooking: Make a larger portion and store leftovers for quick and convenient meals throughout the week.

Kitchen organization: Keep your kitchen well-organized to easily locate ingredients and utensils while cooking.

Efficient multitasking: Utilize downtime, such as waiting for water to boil, to prep other ingredients and maximize efficiency.

Utilize kitchen tools: Use time-saving tools like food processors, slow cookers, and pressure cookers to expedite meal preparation.

Plan meals: Create a weekly meal plan to streamline grocery shopping and ensure you have all necessary ingredients on hand.

Follow recipes: Stick to tried-and-true recipes to avoid experimentation and potential setbacks in the kitchen.

Clean as you go: Wash and put away dishes and utensils while cooking to minimize post-meal cleanup time.

Time-saving ingredients: Incorporate pre-cut vegetables, canned beans, and quick-cooking grains to reduce prep time.

Substitute Ingredients For Unstuffed Cabbage Dinner Recipe

ground beef - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and can be used as a healthier alternative to ground beef. It has a similar texture and can be seasoned to mimic the flavor of ground beef.
garlic powder - Substitute with minced garlic: Fresh minced garlic can be used as a substitute for garlic powder. Use 1 clove of minced garlic for every 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder.
ground black pepper - Substitute with crushed red pepper flakes: Red pepper flakes can add a similar level of heat and spiciness as black pepper, providing a different dimension of flavor to the dish.
low-sodium beef broth - Substitute with low-sodium chicken broth: Chicken broth can be used as a substitute for beef broth, providing a lighter flavor while still adding depth to the dish.
dry onion soup mix - Substitute with homemade onion soup mix: Create a homemade mix using dried minced onion, beef bouillon granules, onion powder, and a touch of salt, which can be used as a replacement for the store-bought dry onion soup mix.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots have a milder, sweeter flavor compared to onions and can be used as a substitute to add a more delicate onion flavor to the dish.
instant white rice - Substitute with quinoa: Quinoa is a nutritious alternative to white rice, providing a nutty flavor and a boost of protein and fiber to the dish.
green cabbage - Substitute with Napa cabbage: Napa cabbage has a milder flavor and a more delicate texture compared to green cabbage, adding a different dimension to the dish.
tomato-vegetable juice cocktail - Substitute with tomato juice with a splash of Worcestershire sauce: Mix tomato juice with a small amount of Worcestershire sauce to replicate the flavor profile of a tomato-vegetable juice cocktail.

Plating Ideas for a Delightful Unstuffed Cabbage Dinner

Elevate the plating: Arrange the unstuffed cabbage dinner delight in a visually appealing manner, ensuring that each component is showcased beautifully on the plate.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley or dill to add a pop of color and a hint of freshness to the overall presentation.
Incorporate texture: Consider adding a crunchy element, such as toasted breadcrumbs or crispy fried onions, to provide contrast and depth to the dish.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of minimalism by allowing some areas of the plate to remain empty, creating a sense of balance and sophistication in the presentation.
Focus on precision: Pay close attention to the placement of each component, ensuring that the dish exudes a sense of meticulousness and attention to detail.
Highlight the vibrant colors: Emphasize the natural hues of the ingredients, such as the rich red of the tomato-vegetable juice cocktail and the verdant green of the shredded cabbage, to create an aesthetically pleasing visual impact.
Consider elegant plating vessels: Select elegant and refined serving dishes that complement the upscale nature of the dish, elevating the overall dining experience for the esteemed culinary professionals.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Unstuffed Cabbage Dinner

Chef's knife: A versatile tool used for chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients with precision.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients, protecting countertops and ensuring safety.
Skillet: A flat-bottomed pan used for browning, sautéing, and simmering ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients for recipes.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring and mixing ingredients, especially in hot dishes, as it does not conduct heat.
Saucepan: A versatile pan used for cooking sauces, boiling liquids, and simmering ingredients.
Chef's pan: Similar to a skillet but with higher, sloping sides, ideal for sautéing, braising, and making sauces.
Lid: Used to cover pans and pots during cooking to retain heat and moisture.
Tongs: Essential for flipping, turning, and serving food items, providing a secure grip.
Grater: Used to grate cheese, vegetables, and other ingredients into fine pieces.
Meat thermometer: Ensures that meats are cooked to the proper internal temperature for safety and doneness.
Colander: Used for draining liquids from cooked pasta, vegetables, and other ingredients.
Stove: Provides the heat source for cooking and preparing various dishes.
Oven: Used for baking, roasting, and broiling a wide range of dishes and ingredients.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining and mixing ingredients for various recipes.
Whisk: Used for blending, whipping, and incorporating air into ingredients, such as eggs and sauces.
Spatula: Ideal for flipping, lifting, and serving foods, as well as scraping bowls and pans.
Baking sheet: A flat, metal sheet used for baking cookies, pastries, and other items in the oven.
Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out dough for pastries, bread, and other baked goods.
Pastry brush: Used for applying glazes, butter, and other liquids to pastries and baked goods.
Food processor: A versatile tool for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients quickly and efficiently.
Blender: Ideal for blending, pureeing, and mixing ingredients to create smooth sauces, soups, and beverages.
Mixer: Used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients for baking and cooking.
Grill: Provides a source of direct heat for grilling meats, vegetables, and other foods.
Barbecue tongs: Long-handled tongs designed for grilling and turning meats and vegetables on a barbecue.
Basting brush: Used for applying marinades, sauces, and oils to foods during grilling and roasting.
Instant-read thermometer: Provides quick and accurate temperature readings for meats, baked goods, and other dishes.

Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Unstuffed Cabbage Dinner

Allow the unstuffed cabbage dinner delight to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and maintain the quality of the dish.
For short-term storage, transfer the cooled unstuffed cabbage dinner delight to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating the refrigerated unstuffed cabbage dinner delight, add a splash of beef broth or water to help rehydrate the rice and prevent it from drying out. Heat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
For longer storage, unstuffed cabbage dinner delight can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Divide the cooled dish into individual portions or freeze it in a large, freezer-safe container.
To freeze individual portions, spoon the unstuffed cabbage dinner delight into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the containers with the date and contents for easy reference.
When ready to enjoy the frozen unstuffed cabbage dinner delight, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat the thawed dish in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a small amount of beef broth or water to help rehydrate the rice and prevent drying.
Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen unstuffed cabbage dinner delight directly from the freezer. Transfer the frozen dish to a microwave-safe container, add a bit of liquid, and microwave on high power, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on your microwave's power and the portion size.

Reheating Tips for Leftover Unstuffed Cabbage Dinner

Reheat the unstuffed cabbage dinner delight in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Add a splash of beef broth or water if the mixture seems too dry. Heat until the dish is warmed through and the cabbage is tender-crisp, about 10-15 minutes.
For a quick and easy reheating method, transfer the leftover unstuffed cabbage dinner delight to a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to help retain moisture. Microwave on high power in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until the dish is heated through and the rice is warm and fluffy. This method should take about 3-5 minutes total, depending on the quantity of leftovers and the power of your microwave.
If you prefer a crispy texture on the ground beef and rice, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover unstuffed cabbage dinner delight to an oven-safe baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the dish is heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top to brown slightly and develop a crispy texture.
For a stovetop method that infuses extra flavor, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the leftover unstuffed cabbage dinner delight and a minced clove of garlic. Stir-fry the mixture for 5-7 minutes, or until the dish is heated through and the cabbage is tender-crisp. This method adds a subtle garlic flavor and a slightly crispy texture to the rice and ground beef.

Interesting Trivia About Unstuffed Cabbage Dinner Delight

The Unstuffed Cabbage Dinner Delight is a delicious and convenient alternative to traditional stuffed cabbage rolls. This recipe offers all the flavors of the classic dish without the hassle of rolling individual cabbage leaves. It's a perfect choice for a busy weeknight dinner, providing a hearty and satisfying meal that's easy to prepare. Plus, it's a great way to incorporate cabbage into your diet, as it's packed with nutrients and fiber. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish that brings together the goodness of ground beef, rice, and cabbage in a delightful combination.

Budget-Friendly Unstuffed Cabbage Dinner: Is It Cost-Effective?

This unstuffed cabbage dinner delight recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. With affordable ingredients like ground beef, cabbage, and rice, it offers a budget-friendly option for a family meal. The use of common pantry staples like garlic powder, onion soup mix, and vegetable juice cocktail keeps the cost down. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it an economical choice. Overall, this recipe offers a satisfying and wallet-friendly meal, earning a solid 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness.

Is This Cabbage Dinner Recipe Healthy?

The unstuffed cabbage dinner delight recipe, while tasty, has some aspects that could be improved from a health perspective. Here's a breakdown:

Ground beef is high in saturated fat, which can contribute to heart disease and other health issues when consumed in excess.
The recipe calls for instant white rice, which is a refined grain that lacks the fiber and nutrients found in whole grain alternatives.
The use of low-sodium beef broth is a positive choice, as it helps reduce the overall sodium content of the dish.
Cabbage is a nutritious vegetable, rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a healthy addition to the recipe.
Tomato-vegetable juice cocktail adds some additional nutrients, but it may also contain added sugars and sodium.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Swap the ground beef for a leaner protein source, such as ground turkey or chicken, to reduce the saturated fat content.
Use brown rice or quinoa instead of instant white rice to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the dish.
Increase the amount of cabbage used in the recipe to boost the vegetable intake and provide more fiber and nutrients.
Opt for a low-sodium tomato sauce or diced tomatoes instead of the tomato-vegetable juice cocktail to reduce the added sugars and sodium.
Add more vegetables to the dish, such as diced carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini, to increase the overall nutrient density.
Use a homemade onion soup mix or a low-sodium alternative to further reduce the sodium content.
Experiment with herbs and spices, such as thyme, paprika, or red pepper flakes, to add flavor without relying on salt.

Our Editor's Opinion on This Unstuffed Cabbage Dinner Recipe

This recipe for Unstuffed Cabbage Dinner Delight is a simple and satisfying dish. The combination of ground beef, cabbage, and rice creates a hearty and flavorful meal. The use of onion soup mix and vegetable juice cocktail adds depth and richness to the dish. However, to enhance the overall flavor profile, consider incorporating additional herbs and spices such as thyme, paprika, and bay leaves. Additionally, a touch of acidity from red wine vinegar or Worcestershire sauce can elevate the taste. Overall, this recipe offers a convenient and delicious alternative to traditional stuffed cabbage rolls.

Enhance Your Unstuffed Cabbage Dinner Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes with a hint of garlic and chives, topped with melted butter.

Garlic Bread: Warm, crispy garlic bread brushed with olive oil and sprinkled with parmesan cheese.

Mixed Green Salad: Fresh mixed greens tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette.

Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits, such as strawberries, pineapple, and kiwi, drizzled with a honey-lime dressing.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Unstuffed Cabbage Dinner

Savory Beef and Vegetable Stew: This hearty stew is packed with tender beef, carrots, potatoes, and a savory broth that will warm you up on a chilly evening.

Zesty Lemon Chicken Stir-Fry: This vibrant stir-fry combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and a zesty lemon sauce for a refreshing and flavorful meal.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta: Indulge in this creamy pasta dish featuring al dente noodles, a rich garlic parmesan sauce, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of freshness.

Perfect Appetizer and Dessert Combinations for Your Cabbage Dinner

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, then baked to perfection.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: Grated zucchini mixed with herbs, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, formed into patties and fried until golden and crispy.

Desserts:

Decadent Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Velvety Lemon Cheesecake: Savor the tangy and creamy lemon cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust. The zesty lemon flavor combined with the velvety smoothness of the cheesecake will surely brighten up your day.

Why trust this Unstuffed Cabbage Dinner Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful combination of ground beef, cabbage, and rice, creating a comforting and flavorful dish. The use of garlic powder and onion soup mix enhances the savory profile, while the addition of tomato-vegetable juice cocktail infuses a rich and vibrant taste. With the inclusion of beef broth and black pepper, this recipe promises a satisfying and wholesome meal. The simplicity and balance of ingredients make this dish a trustworthy and delicious choice for a hearty dinner.

If you've tried this Unstuffed Cabbage Dinner recipe or have any tips to share, head over to the Recipe Sharing forum and join the discussion!

FAQ:

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe. It will give the dish a lighter and slightly different flavor, but it will still be delicious.

Can I use brown rice instead of instant white rice?

Absolutely! You can use brown rice instead of instant white rice. Just keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook, so you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it later?

Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time and reheat it later. It actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato-vegetable juice cocktail?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato-vegetable juice cocktail. Simply blend or juice the fresh tomatoes to use as a substitute.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even mushrooms to customize the dish to your liking. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure all the vegetables are cooked to your desired level of tenderness.