Old Fashion Stuffed Cabbage
Old Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage offers tender cabbage leaves filled with savory beef and rice mixture, simmered in a rich tomato sauce—comfort food perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut off the bottom of the cabbage, about 1 inch, and remove the entire core.
- Remove any damaged leaves, rinse the whole cabbage head, and place it into salted boiling water.
- Allow the water to return to a boil and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Remove the cabbage from heat and let it stand for 25 minutes.
- Drain the cabbage and allow it to cool sufficiently for handling.
Tips & Substitutions
For easier handling, freeze the cabbage for a few hours before boiling; this helps soften the leaves. You can substitute the ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a smokier flavor, consider using smoked sausage instead of bacon. Adding herbs like thyme or parsley can enhance the overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed cabbage with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside roasted potatoes or a warm grain like quinoa.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed cabbage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the cabbage in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for quick meals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashion Stuffed Cabbage contains roughly 445 calories, with 27g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (58% of the Daily Value), protein (53% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2576mg per serving (112% 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 stuffed cabbage ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed cabbage a day in advance. Assemble the rolls, place them in a baking dish, and cover with sauce. Refrigerate overnight and bake when ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it even more delicious.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can use crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce mixed with a bit of sugar to mimic the sweetness. Alternatively, a homemade sauce made from sautéed onions and garlic with diced tomatoes works well for a fresh flavor.
How do I know when the cabbage is cooked?
The cabbage is cooked when the leaves are tender and easily peel away from the head. After boiling, you should be able to separate the leaves without much resistance. Ensure the stuffed rolls are cooked thoroughly, with an internal temperature of 160°F for ground beef.
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).