Cabbage Rolls(My Dad'S)
Cabbage rolls feature tender cabbage leaves filled with seasoned meat and rice, simmered in a savory tomato sauce—comforting and flavorful, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the cabbage head in boiling water to wilt the leaves.
- Separate the leaves from the cabbage.
- Combine hamburger, sausage, finely chopped onion, uncooked rice, egg, and salt to make the filling.
- Place the filling in each cabbage leaf and pin with toothpicks to secure.
- Arrange the filled cabbage rolls in a deep pan.
- Pour the can of stewed tomatoes and the can of tomato sauce over the rolls.
- Cook over low to medium heat, covered, for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
To easily peel the cabbage leaves, ensure they are fully wilted in boiling water. You can substitute ground turkey for the hamburger for a lighter option, or use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free alternative. Season the filling with herbs like dill or parsley for additional flavor. For a twist, try adding some smoked paprika, which complements the tomato sauce beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream on top for added creaminess. They pair well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a comforting touch, consider serving them alongside a warm bowl of The Best Split Pea Soup, which makes for a hearty combination.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored 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 until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave them, covered, for 2-3 minutes, checking to ensure they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage Rolls(My Dad'S) contains roughly 997 calories, with 27g protein, 150g carbohydrates, and 33g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (53% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and calcium (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 the cabbage rolls a day in advance. Assemble them and store them in the fridge covered until you're ready to cook. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if they are cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you prefer a different flavor profile, you can use marinara sauce or a homemade tomato sauce. For a unique twist, try using a combination of diced bell peppers and crushed tomatoes for added sweetness and texture.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done?
The cabbage rolls are done when the meat is cooked through and the rice is tender. You can check by cutting one open; the filling should be hot and no longer pink. The cooking liquid should be bubbling gently, indicating that they are fully cooked.
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).