Baked Cabbage Rolls
Tender cabbage leaves stuffed with seasoned ground beef and onions, baked to golden perfection—comforting and flavorful, ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Scald cabbage in salted hot water; drain well.
- Mix ground beef, salt, chopped onion, beaten egg, bread crumbs, and pepper; form into 12 to 14 beef balls.
- Place beef balls in cabbage leaves; fold and roll up.
- Fasten each roll with toothpicks.
- Place rolls in a buttered casserole dish.
- Pour 1 1/2 cups warm water over cabbage rolls and cover.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
- Remove cover; bake for an additional 15 minutes, until golden brown.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also add cooked rice or quinoa to the meat mixture for extra texture. Make sure to scald the cabbage leaves thoroughly to make them pliable. If you have leftover filling, it can be cooked in a skillet for a quick meal. This dish pairs well with Hungarian Goulash Soup(Not Just A Soup - A Meal!) for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor. They pair beautifully with a side salad or crusty bread. For a heartier meal, consider serving them alongside Fire Beef or a rich Mushroom Sauce. These rolls can also be topped with tomato sauce for a classic twist.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a splash of water, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quick meal, ensuring they are covered to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 281 calories, with 7g protein, 52g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1047mg per serving (46% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the cabbage rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cabbage rolls a day in advance. Assemble them as instructed, then cover and refrigerate until you're ready to bake. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if they go in cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute if you're looking for a lighter or vegetarian option. Adjust the seasoning as needed, since different meats have varying flavor profiles.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done?
The cabbage rolls are done when they are heated through and the beef reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. The tops should be golden brown and the cabbage tender. If you're unsure, cut one open to check the meat.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).