Cabbage Meat Balls
Hearty cabbage meat balls combine savory flavors with tender rice and vegetables, baked to perfection. A comforting dish ideal for family dinners and cold evenings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix hamburger, rice, celery, chopped onion, beaten egg, and salt together and form into 8 balls.
- Place each meat ball in the bottom of a baking pan.
- Cover the meat balls with a small layer of cabbage leaves.
- Add enough water to cover the bottom of the pan.
- Bake in a slow oven for about 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use short-grain rice as it tends to stick better and absorb flavors. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a veggie twist, try using lentils or quinoa instead of rice. Adding herbs like parsley or dill can enhance the flavor profile, making it reminiscent of traditional American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cabbage meatballs with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh Pre-Tossed Salad for a balanced meal. You can also pair them with a tangy dipping sauce or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor. For a heartier dish, consider serving them alongside garlic bread or roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cabbage meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a splash of water, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. They can also be microwaved for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage Meat Balls contains roughly 192 calories, with 5g protein, 32g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (15% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1382mg per serving (60% 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 these cabbage meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked meatballs. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake them directly from frozen, adding extra cooking time.
What can I use instead of cabbage leaves?
If you don't have cabbage, you can use Swiss chard or collard greens as an alternative for wrapping. They will provide a similar texture and a unique flavor twist.
How do I know when the meatballs are fully cooked?
The meatballs should be cooked until they reach an internal temperature of 160°F. You can also cut one open to check that it is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear.
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).