Hulupkies(Cabbage Rolls)
Hulupkies are flavorful cabbage rolls filled with seasoned beef and rice, baked in a rich tomato sauce with bacon—perfect for hearty family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rice according to package directions.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, egg, oregano, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and 1/2 cup of Ragu sauce.
- In a large kettle, boil the cabbage head, removing leaves as they become very tender.
- Lay out the cabbage leaves and place approximately 2 tablespoons of meat mixture in the center of each leaf.
- Roll each leaf around the filling, folding in the sides to enclose the mixture.
- Place the rolled cabbage leaves seam side down into a roaster lined with extra cabbage leaves.
- Top the rolled leaves with water, additional Ragu sauce, and strips of bacon.
- Cover and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 2 1/2 hours, checking every 45 minutes and adding water if necessary.
Tips & Substitutions
When making hulupkies, ensure the cabbage leaves are very tender for easy rolling. If you don't have Ragu sauce, any tomato-based sauce can work as a substitute. For added flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or parsley to the meat mixture. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hulupkies with a side of crusty bread or a light salad to balance the richness of the dish. They pair beautifully with French Onion Soup By Microwave for a comforting meal. For a heartier option, consider serving with mashed potatoes or a side of steamed vegetables to round out the meal.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in short intervals until hot. Adding a splash of water can help maintain moisture during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hulupkies(Cabbage Rolls) contains roughly 327 calories, with 14g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (89% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (62% of the Daily Value), and calcium (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1394mg per serving (61% 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 prepare hulupkies ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the hulupkies a day in advance. Assemble the rolls and store them in the refrigerator, then bake them just before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and saves time on the day of serving.
What can I use if I don't have fresh cabbage?
If fresh cabbage isn't available, you can use frozen cabbage leaves, which are often pre-blanched. Alternatively, look for collard greens or Swiss chard, which can also make a delicious wrapper for the filling.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done?
The hulupkies are done when the cabbage leaves are tender and the meat filling is cooked through, which typically takes about 2 1/2 hours at 300°F (150°C). You can check the internal temperature of the filling; it should reach at least 165°F (74°C).
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).