Cabbage Balls
Cabbage Balls are savory stuffed cabbage leaves filled with seasoned ground meat and rice, baked in tomato juice for a hearty, comforting dish suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the head of cabbage in a large pot until the leaves feel limp. Remove, drain, and cut off individual leaves.
- Mix together the ground beef, sausage, chopped onion, and uncooked rice.
- Place a small amount of the meat mixture in the center of a cabbage leaf and roll it up.
- Secure the cabbage roll with a toothpick.
- Place the cabbage balls in a deep pot and cover them with tomato juice.
- Put a lid on the pot and bake at 350°F for 1 hour or until tender.
- Remove the toothpick before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding spices like paprika or garlic powder to the meat mixture. If you want a lighter option, you can substitute ground turkey for the beef and sausage. Additionally, using brown rice instead of Minute rice can enhance the flavor and nutrition. Be sure to boil the cabbage just until tender to avoid tearing the leaves when rolling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cabbage balls with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor. They pair wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For a comforting side, consider serving them alongside mashed potatoes or a hearty grain like quinoa. This dish is a great option for family gatherings or to enjoy with friends.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cabbage balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings, adding a splash of tomato juice to keep them moist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage Balls contains roughly 336 calories, with 17g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. At about 336 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 use different types of meat for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and sausage for a lighter version. Additionally, adding chopped bacon can give extra flavor if desired. Feel free to experiment with various meat combinations to find your favorite mix.
What can I do if I have leftover cabbage leaves?
Leftover cabbage leaves can be used in various ways. You can chop them and add to soups or stir-fries, or use them as a wrap for other fillings. Alternatively, consider making a cabbage slaw to serve as a refreshing side dish with your cabbage balls.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version of cabbage balls, substitute the meat with a mixture of cooked lentils, beans, or a meat substitute like tempeh or tofu. You can also add finely chopped vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers to enhance the texture and flavor, creating a delicious meatless option.
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).