Description
This Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole is a comforting and easy-to-make dish that combines minced beef, fire-roasted tomatoes, fragrant spices, and tender cabbage topped with melted cheddar-jack cheese. Perfect for a hearty weeknight meal, it skips the hassle of rolling stuffed cabbage leaves while delivering all the flavors in a one-pot skillet meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 3 Tablespoons Oil
- 1 Lb 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/Jack Cheese
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics and Beef: Heat oil in a large pan with high sides or a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, chopped onion, and orange bell pepper. Cook until the beef is browned through and the onions have become translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the chopped garlic cloves and sauté for an additional 1 minute, letting the garlic release its aroma without burning.
- Add Tomatoes, Spices, and Cabbage: Pour in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes along with smoked paprika, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir everything to combine, then top the mixture evenly with the chopped cabbage. Cover the pan and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the cabbage becomes tender, stirring occasionally if desired.
- Top with Cheese and Melt: Once the cabbage is soft, sprinkle the shredded cheddar/jack cheese on top. Cover the pan again and let it sit briefly until the cheese has fully melted, approximately 3-5 minutes. Serve hot.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of soy sauce when adding the tomatoes.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, include a pinch of red pepper flakes with the spices.
- To keep it low carb, omit the cheese or use a reduced-fat variety.
- Leftovers store well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely on the stovetop or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Unstuffed Cabbage Casserole, Ground Beef Casserole, One Pot Dinner, Fire Roasted Tomatoes, Comfort Food, Easy Weeknight Meal
