Beef-Stuffed Cabbage Leaves
Juicy beef-stuffed cabbage rolls seasoned with sage and herbs, baked to perfection and served with tomato sauce. A hearty, comforting dish suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Immerse cabbage into boiling, salted water until bright green.
- Brown the ground beef and chopped onion, then drain.
- Combine the cooked meat with rice, melted butter, bread crumbs, salt, pepper, and sage to make the filling.
- Place the filling near the base of each cabbage leaf, then roll up, folding the edges under.
- Arrange the cabbage rolls in rows in a greased 9 x 13-inch baking dish and cover tightly.
- Bake at 350°F for 30 minutes (or 45 minutes if refrigerated).
- Serve with tomato sauce.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a large head of cabbage to ensure ample leaves for rolling. If you prefer a lighter filling, consider substituting turkey or chicken for the ground beef. Adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or fresh herbs like parsley can enhance the flavor. Additionally, if you have leftover filling, it can be used in other dishes, similar to how you might use it in a 1950 Canadian Noodle Bake.
Serving Suggestions
These beef-stuffed cabbage leaves are delicious served with a generous drizzle of tomato sauce or a dollop of sour cream. They pair wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad, such as a Diabetic Farmers Salad, for a balanced meal. Feel free to garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a bit of tomato sauce, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef-Stuffed Cabbage Leaves contains roughly 724 calories, with 15g protein, 111g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (308% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (52% of the Daily Value), and protein (29% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 782mg per serving (34% 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 freeze the cabbage rolls before baking?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled cabbage rolls before baking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to bake, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.
What can I use instead of rice in the filling?
If you're looking for a substitute for rice, quinoa or couscous can work well for this recipe. Both options provide a similar texture and absorb flavors nicely. You could also use cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative, though you may want to reduce the cooking time slightly.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done?
The cabbage rolls are done when they are heated through and the cabbage is tender. If you're unsure, you can cut one open to check that the filling is hot and fully cooked. The tops should also be slightly golden, especially if you've added cheese or breadcrumbs on top.
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).