Crock-Pot Swedish Cabbage Rolls
Crock-Pot Swedish Cabbage Rolls are a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for family dinners. The combination of tender cabbage leaves filled with seasoned turkey or hamburger, rice, and a rich tomato sauce creates a flavorful meal that suits both busy weeknights and leisurely weekends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place cabbage leaves in a microwavable dish with 2 to 4 tablespoons of water and microwave for about 3 minutes or until cabbage is limp.
- Combine egg, milk, onion, salt, pepper, meat, and cooked rice.
- Place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture in the center of each leaf; fold in the sides and roll the ends over the meat.
- Place the rolls in the crock-pot.
- Combine tomato sauce with brown sugar, lemon juice, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the cabbage rolls.
- Cover and cook on low for 7 to 9 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure easy rolling, blanch the cabbage leaves for a few minutes in boiling water instead of microwaving. If ground turkey is not available, ground beef or pork can be substituted. For added flavor, try incorporating herbs like dill or parsley into the meat mixture. If you're looking for a side dish, consider serving these cabbage rolls with a light salad or pairing with Cheese And Sausage Snacks for a fun appetizer.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cabbage rolls hot, drizzled with the sauce from the crock-pot. They pair wonderfully with a dollop of sour cream on top or a side of crusty bread. For a complete meal, add a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh garden salad. These rolls can also be a great addition to a potluck, alongside desserts like Raspberry Coconut Layer Bars.
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 the microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covering with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Swedish Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 515 calories, with 26g protein, 78g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (74% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (59% of the Daily Value), and protein (52% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1453mg per serving (63% 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 the cabbage rolls before cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked cabbage rolls. To do this, assemble them and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then proceed with the cooking instructions.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can use crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes as a substitute. For a different flavor profile, consider using a marinara sauce or a homemade tomato sauce seasoned with Italian herbs. This can add a unique twist to the dish.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done cooking?
The cabbage rolls are done when the meat is fully cooked, and the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F. Additionally, you should see the cabbage leaves are tender and the sauce is bubbling. The long cooking time helps meld the flavors together, making them even tastier.
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).