Crock-Pot Cabbage Rolls
Crock-Pot Cabbage Rolls are a comforting dish filled with seasoned ground beef, rice, and savory spices, all wrapped in tender cabbage leaves. This hearty meal is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home, bringing together flavors of tomato and sweetness from brown sugar and lemon.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Immerse cabbage leaves in a large kettle of boiling water for about 3 minutes or until limp; drain.
- Combine egg, milk, onion, salt, pepper, beef, and cooked rice.
- Place about 1/4 cup meat mixture in the center of each leaf; fold in sides and roll ends over meat.
- Place in crock-pot.
- Combine tomato sauce with brown sugar and lemon juice.
- Pour over cabbage rolls.
- Cover and cook on low for 7 to 9 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your cabbage rolls, consider adding herbs like dill or parsley to the meat mixture. If you don't have lean ground beef, ground turkey or pork can be good substitutes. For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with lentils or quinoa. Make sure to fully drain the cabbage leaves after boiling to prevent excess water in the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream on top for added creaminess. They pair beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a comforting side, consider serving them alongside a bowl of Easy Beef Stew or roasted vegetables.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel, heating in short intervals until warmed through. They can also be reheated in the crock-pot on low for a couple of hours.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 487 calories, with 16g protein, 69g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (83% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (65% of the Daily Value), and iron (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1841mg per serving (80% 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 these cabbage rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the cabbage rolls and store them covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. If you want to freeze them, place the uncooked rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes can be used as alternatives. You can also mix in some tomato paste for a richer flavor. Adjust the seasoning to balance the acidity, and consider adding a bit of broth for a more saucy consistency.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done cooking?
Cabbage rolls are done when the meat is fully cooked and the flavors have melded together, usually after 7 to 9 hours on low. You can check the internal temperature of the meat to ensure it reaches 160°F. The cabbage should be tender but still hold its shape.
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).