Meat Cabbage Rolls
Savory cabbage rolls stuffed with seasoned beef and rice, smothered in tomato sauce and sauerkraut for a comforting, hearty dish perfect for family dinners
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dip cabbage leaves in hot water until wilted; drain.
- Combine ground beef, salt, pepper, cooked rice, and minced garlic; mix well.
- Place 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture onto each cabbage leaf.
- Roll the leaf around the filling and secure with a toothpick.
- Spread sauerkraut in the bottom of a large pot or Dutch oven.
- Arrange the rolled cabbage leaves on top of the sauerkraut.
- Pour tomato soup and tomato paste over the rolls.
- Add enough water to cover the ingredients.
- Cover and cook slowly for 1 hour at 350°F.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding chopped onions or bell peppers to the meat mixture. If you're out of ground beef, try using ground turkey or chicken as a leaner alternative. For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tomato sauce. Ensure to soak the cabbage leaves well to prevent tearing during rolling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these meat cabbage rolls with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal. They pair beautifully with Lena'S Meatball Surprise for a hearty dinner spread. For an extra touch, garnish the rolls with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a covered skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave them on a plate covered with a damp paper towel until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Meat Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 755 calories, with 29g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (127% of the Daily Value), protein (58% of the Daily Value), and iron (46% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 meat cabbage rolls?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked cabbage rolls. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and cook as directed. Cooked rolls can also be frozen, but they may lose some texture.
What can I substitute for sauerkraut?
If you don't have sauerkraut, you can use shredded cabbage sautéed in a bit of vinegar for a similar tangy flavor. Alternatively, try coleslaw mix with a splash of lemon juice to achieve a crunchy texture that complements the rolls.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make vegetarian cabbage rolls, substitute the ground beef with a mixture of cooked lentils, mushrooms, and finely chopped vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of water and replace the tomato paste with a marinara sauce for added flavor. This will create a delicious and hearty alternative.
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).