Cabbage Roll Skillet

If you love traditional cabbage rolls but not so much the time it takes to make them, let me introduce you to the ultimate shortcut: the Cabbage Roll Skillet. It’s everything you love about the classic—savory beef, tender cabbage, a tangy tomato sauce, and warm spices—all tossed together in one cozy skillet. No rolling. No baking. Just all the flavor with way less effort.

This dish is comforting, filling, and super satisfying. It’s a weeknight dinner winner, and bonus—it’s naturally low-carb and budget-friendly. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder why you ever fussed with rolling those leaves in the first place.

Why You’ll Love Cabbage Roll Skillet

This recipe takes a beloved comfort food and makes it totally weeknight-friendly. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your regular rotation:

Quick & Easy: No need to boil, roll, or bake anything. Just toss everything into a skillet and let it do its thing.

One-Pan Meal: Less cleanup, more flavor. Everything cooks in one skillet, and that’s always a win.

Full of Flavor: The combo of seasoned ground beef, sautéed onions, tender cabbage, and tomato sauce is rich and deeply satisfying.

Customizable: Want to add rice? Go for it. Looking for a low-carb version? Skip it. You can make it your own with ease.

Great Leftovers: It reheats beautifully, so make extra and thank yourself later.

Ingredients in Cabbage Roll Skillet

This dish uses humble ingredients, but together, they create magic. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ground Beef

The base of the skillet—flavorful and filling. You can sub in turkey or plant-based ground meat if you’d like.

Onion & Garlic

Aromatic and essential. They add depth and that classic homemade flavor.

Cabbage

Chopped into bite-sized pieces and sautéed until tender. It soaks up all the saucy goodness.

Crushed Tomatoes or Tomato Sauce

Rich, tangy, and full of flavor. This is what makes it taste like real-deal cabbage rolls.

Cooked Rice (optional)

For a traditional touch, stir in cooked white or brown rice. You can also use cauliflower rice for a lighter twist.

Paprika & Italian Seasoning

A blend of smoky and herby flavors that give this skillet its signature taste.

Salt & Pepper

To season everything just right.

Optional: A Splash of Worcestershire or Vinegar

Adds brightness and depth—just a little goes a long way.

Optional: Shredded Cheese

Want to take it to the next level? Sprinkle cheese on top and let it melt before serving.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

This skillet comes together in a few easy steps:

Cook the Beef

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.

Add the Aromatics

Stir in the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and softened.

Add the Cabbage

Toss in the chopped cabbage. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften and wilt down.

Stir in Sauce and Spices

Add the crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce, along with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and a splash of Worcestershire or vinegar if using. Stir well to combine.

Simmer

Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10–15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded.

Add Rice (if using)

If you’re including cooked rice, stir it in at the end and heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Optional: Add Cheese

Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and cover for a few minutes until melted and gooey.

Serve Warm

Scoop into bowls and serve hot, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4–6
Calories per serving: Approx. 300–450 (depending on rice and cheese additions)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

How to Serve Cabbage Roll Skillet

This dish is super versatile, and here are a few fun ways to serve it up:

With Crusty Bread: Mop up all that saucy goodness with a slice of warm bread.

Over Mashed Potatoes: For a heartier take, serve the skillet over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes.

Topped with Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and tang.

Next-Day Wraps: Scoop leftovers into a tortilla or flatbread for a tasty lunch wrap.

With a Side Salad: A crisp green salad adds a nice balance to the rich, savory flavors.

Additional Tips

Cut the Cabbage Evenly: Try to chop cabbage into evenly sized pieces so it cooks uniformly.

Use Pre-Cooked Rice: Saves time and makes for a super speedy dinner.

Add Heat: Love a little spice? Toss in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Double the Recipe: It’s freezer-friendly, so make extra and stash some for later.

Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: Keep a little bite to the cabbage for the best texture—it shouldn’t be mushy.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I make this low-carb?
A1: Absolutely! Just skip the rice or use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Q2: Can I freeze leftovers?
A2: Yes! Let the skillet cool completely, then store in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Q3: What kind of cabbage works best?
A3: Green cabbage is classic and holds up well in the skillet. Savoy also works nicely if you prefer a more tender texture.

Q4: Can I use ground turkey or chicken?
A4: Yep! Just know that turkey and chicken are a bit leaner, so you might want to add a splash of oil to prevent drying out.

Q5: What can I serve with this?
A5: Garlic bread, mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or even a simple cucumber salad work great on the side.

Conclusion

This Cabbage Roll Skillet is everything you love about old-school cabbage rolls without the time commitment or cleanup. It’s warm, hearty, and packed with feel-good flavors—and the best part? It all comes together in one pan. Whether you’re craving comfort food or just need an easy dinner that hits the spot, this recipe has your back. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your rotation!

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