Amish Unstuffed Cabbage (Comforting, Hearty & Easy)

If you love the flavors of classic stuffed cabbage rolls but want something quicker and fuss-free, Amish Unstuffed Cabbage is your go-to comfort meal. This hearty casserole layers ground beef, rice, and cabbage in a savory tomato sauce, giving all the flavor of traditional cabbage rolls without the labor of rolling individual leaves.

Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or family gatherings, this dish is simple, satisfying, and full of flavor, with tender cabbage, perfectly cooked beef, and a slightly tangy tomato sauce that ties everything together.

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Why You’ll Love Amish Unstuffed Cabbage

• All the flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls in a fraction of the time
• Tender cabbage with savory, seasoned ground beef
• Easy, one-dish recipe
• Freezer-friendly and make-ahead friendly
• Perfect for weeknight dinners or family meals

This dish embodies Amish comfort food: simple, hearty, and wholesome.

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Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• ½ cup uncooked white rice
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, balances acidity)
• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil

Optional garnish: fresh parsley or dill

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Cabbage

• Remove tough outer leaves from cabbage, core, and chop into bite-sized pieces.
• Set aside.

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Step 2: Brown the Meat

1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
3. Add onions and garlic, sauté until translucent.
4. Drain excess fat if necessary.

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Step 3: Add Rice and Tomatoes

• Stir in uncooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and brown sugar (if using).
• Mix until well combined.

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Step 4: Add Cabbage

• Fold in chopped cabbage, stirring to combine.
• Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes until cabbage is tender and rice is fully cooked.

Optional: Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

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Step 5: Serve

• Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or dill before serving.

This dish is best served hot, either on its own or with a slice of crusty bread.

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Texture & Flavor Profile

• Cabbage: Tender but not mushy
• Rice: Fluffy, absorbing the tomato-beef flavors
• Meat: Savory, perfectly seasoned
• Sauce: Slightly tangy, lightly sweet, aromatic from paprika and oregano

The combination is comforting, filling, and hearty, perfect for cold evenings or family dinners.

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Variations

1. Amish Unstuffed Cabbage with Sausage – Substitute ground beef with ground pork sausage or a mixture of beef and sausage.
2. Cheesy Version – Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top before serving.
3. Slow Cooker Version – Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours.
4. Vegetarian Version – Replace meat with cooked lentils or plant-based ground meat.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigerator

• Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
• Reheat on stovetop or microwave until warmed through.

Freezer

• Freeze cooled leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.

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Tips for Perfect Amish Unstuffed Cabbage

1. Cut cabbage evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
2. Use fresh cabbage for best flavor and texture.
3. Simmer gently to avoid overcooking rice or cabbage.
4. Adjust seasoning toward the end, as rice and cabbage absorb flavors while cooking.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with crusty bread or dinner rolls
• Add a dollop of sour cream for richness
• Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables

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Why This Recipe Works

The combination of ground beef, rice, cabbage, and tomato sauce mirrors the classic flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls but simplifies the process. Everything cooks in one dish, allowing flavors to meld while keeping ingredients tender and flavorful.

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Occasions for Amish Unstuffed Cabbage

• Cozy family dinners
• Weeknight comfort meals
• Potlucks or casual gatherings
• Make-ahead freezer-friendly meals

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Final Thoughts

Amish Unstuffed Cabbage is a comforting, hearty, and easy one-dish meal that captures all the flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls without the extra work. Perfect for families, potlucks, or meal prepping, it’s a wholesome, flavorful, and satisfying dinner that everyone will love.

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