Margie'S Holupki (Cabbage Rolls)
Cabbage rolls with savory ground beef, bacon, and rice, wrapped in tender cabbage leaves—comfort food perfect for family dinners and hearty gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wilt cabbage leaves by scalding in boiling water.
- Drain and pat dry.
- Cut out heavy ribs from the cabbage leaves.
- Saute chopped onion with chopped bacon until transparent.
- Drain off most of the drippings.
- Mix ground beef, instant rice, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Place a portion of the meat mixture onto each cabbage leaf.
- Roll up the leaves to enclose the filling.
- Place the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Cover and bake until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use a large head of cabbage with tender leaves to make rolling easier. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with lentils or a meat alternative. Adding herbs like dill or parsley can enhance the flavor. Consider incorporating some grated carrots or chopped bell peppers into the meat mixture for added texture and taste, similar to the variations found in Goulash(60 People).
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cabbage rolls with a side of sour cream or a drizzle of tomato sauce for added flavor. They pair beautifully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, consider serving them alongside crusty bread or mashed potatoes. This dish also complements well with Beef recipes, making it a versatile choice for any dinner table.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. You can also microwave them, but be sure to cover them to avoid drying out. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked rolls before baking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Margie'S Holupki (Cabbage Rolls) contains roughly 281 calories, with 12g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2195mg per serving (95% 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 use a different type of meat for the filling?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian version. Just adjust the seasoning accordingly to ensure flavor.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are fully cooked?
Cabbage rolls are fully cooked when the meat reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cabbage leaves are tender. You can cut one open to check if the meat is no longer pink and the rice is fully cooked.
Can I prepare these in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the cabbage rolls up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Alternatively, freeze them before baking. Just remember to increase the baking time if cooking from frozen.
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).