Family Favorite Cabbage Rolls
Family Favorite Cabbage Rolls feature tender cabbage leaves filled with seasoned beef and rice, simmered in tomato sauce for a hearty, comforting meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Steam cabbage leaves until tender.
- Combine rice, water, and salt; cook for 20 minutes.
- Mix cooked rice, ground beef, instant minced onion, 1 1/2 teaspoons Season-All, black pepper, and basil leaves.
- Place 1/3 cup of meat mixture in each cabbage leaf.
- Roll and tuck in ends.
- Fasten with a toothpick.
- Place rolls in a frying pan.
- Cover with canned tomatoes and juice; simmer for 1 1/2 hours.
- Remove rolls and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful filling, consider adding grated carrots or diced bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you're out of ground beef, ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner substitute. Additionally, feel free to swap the canned tomatoes for a homemade tomato sauce if you prefer a richer taste. Adding herbs like thyme or oregano can also elevate the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream on top for added richness. They pair nicely with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. For a heartier spread, consider serving alongside Jo Ann Foster'S Casserole or Western Baked Beans for a delightful family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Family Favorite Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 415 calories, with 14g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), protein (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2117mg per serving (92% 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. After assembling, cover them and refrigerate. When ready to cook, just add the sauce and simmer as directed. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making them even tastier.
What type of cabbage is best for rolling?
Savoy cabbage is often preferred for its tender leaves that roll easily, but green cabbage works well too. The key is to ensure the leaves are steamed until pliable to prevent tearing during rolling.
Can I freeze cabbage rolls?
Absolutely! Once cooked, allow the cabbage rolls to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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).