Cabbage Rolls With Meat
Savory cabbage rolls filled with seasoned ground meat and rice, baked in a tomato-based sauce. Perfect comfort food for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil a head of cabbage until fairly soft.
- Make rolls with the cabbage leaves around the meat and rice mixture.
- Combine ground meat, cooked rice, and seasonings, then shape to fit the cabbage leaves.
- Place the cabbage rolls in a pan and cover with canned tomatoes and tomato soup.
- Bake in the oven for 45 to 50 minutes, basting often with juice.
Tips & Substitutions
When making cabbage rolls, consider using ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you don't have cooked rice on hand, quinoa or couscous can be good substitutes. To enhance flavor, add garlic or spices like paprika to the meat mixture. For a quicker preparation, you can use pre-packaged cabbage leaves instead of boiling a whole head.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor. They pair wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables or a light salad. For a comforting meal, consider serving them alongside potato gratin with Boursin for a creamy, indulgent side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual rolls for a faster option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage Rolls With Meat contains roughly 1240 calories, with 62g protein, 221g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (124% of the Daily Value), iron (99% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (71% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1816mg per serving (79% 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 make cabbage rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare cabbage rolls a day in advance. Assemble them and store in the refrigerator, covered tightly. When ready to cook, simply pour the sauce over and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if needed.
What type of meat is best for cabbage rolls?
Ground beef is traditional, but ground pork, turkey, or chicken work well too. Each type of meat brings a different flavor, so choose based on your preference. Mixing meats can also add depth to the dish.
Can I freeze cabbage rolls?
Absolutely! Freeze uncooked cabbage rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. Cook from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
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).