Marge'S Cabbage Rolls
Savory cabbage rolls filled with seasoned meat and rice, wrapped in bacon, and baked to perfection—comforting, flavorful, and ideal for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove the center from the head of cabbage.
- Place the cabbage head in a large pan and cover with water.
- Add vinegar to the water.
- Cook until the leaves become soft and can be removed.
- Line the bottom of a roaster pan with some of the cooked cabbage leaves.
- Mix hamburger, sausage, cooked rice, parsley flakes, basil flakes, salt, pepper, and garlic salt together.
- Place a portion of the mixture on individual cabbage leaves and roll them up.
- Wrap each roll with a bacon slice and secure with a toothpick.
- Place the wrapped rolls in the roaster pan.
- Dissolve 4 beef bouillon cubes in the juice from the cooked cabbage and pour over the rolls.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 2.5 to 3 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
To make rolling easier, blanch the cabbage leaves briefly in hot water before filling them. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute ground turkey for the hamburger and sausage. You can also experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme for added flavor. For a twist, consider adding cheese to the filling, which complements the savory elements beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
These cabbage rolls are delicious served with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, pair them with mashed potatoes or a hearty soup like Deep South Chili. Drizzle some sour cream on top for added creaminess, or serve with a tangy tomato sauce for extra flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a splash of broth or water, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marge'S Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 109 calories, with 4g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 865mg per serving (38% 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 cabbage rolls?
Yes, you can freeze cabbage rolls before or after cooking. If freezing before cooking, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. For cooked rolls, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
What can I use instead of pork sausage?
If you want to substitute the pork sausage, consider using chicken sausage or a plant-based sausage for a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, swap in lentils or cooked quinoa mixed with spices to mimic the sausage flavor. Adjust seasonings to taste.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done?
The cabbage rolls are done when the meat is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The bacon should be crispy, and the cabbage leaves should be tender. If you aren’t sure, cut one open to check that the meat is no longer pink.
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).