Pigs In A Blanket(Cabbage Rolls)
Hearty cabbage rolls stuffed with seasoned ground beef, rice, and sausage, simmered in a tomato and sauerkraut base, perfect for comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut around the cabbage core and put the cabbage in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil.
- Allow the cabbage leaves to come off as they soften.
- Remove the cabbage leaves and cut out the stems.
- Mix ground beef, chopped onion, rice, ground sausage, and 4 tablespoons of tomatoes well.
- Place two tablespoons of the mixture on each cabbage leaf and roll loosely.
- Put sauerkraut and dill seed in the bottom of a large kettle.
- Add the green stuffed pepper in the middle with cabbage rolls around.
- Add remaining tomatoes and 3 cups of water, cover, and cook slowly for 2 hours.
- Serve hot with sour cream.
Tips & Substitutions
To make rolling easier, you can blanch cabbage leaves in boiling water for a minute before using. If you're short on time, cooked quinoa can replace rice for a quicker option. For added flavor, consider mixing in some herbs like parsley or thyme. You can also use turkey or chicken instead of beef and sausage to lighten the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Pigs In A Blanket hot, drizzled with sour cream for added creaminess. These rolls pair wonderfully with a side of German Dressing or a fresh salad for a light contrast. For a heartier meal, consider serving alongside mashed potatoes or crusty bread, which can soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Pigs In A Blanket in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat them in a microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep them moist. For longer storage, consider freezing individual rolls, which can last for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pigs In A Blanket(Cabbage Rolls) contains roughly 493 calories, with 19g protein, 89g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (199% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (198% of the Daily Value), and iron (72% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1096mg per serving (48% 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 use ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute in place of the beef and sausage. Adjust the seasoning as needed to ensure the flavors remain balanced.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done cooking?
The cabbage rolls are done when they are tender and the filling is fully cooked. You can check this by cutting one open to ensure the meat is no longer pink and the rice is fully cooked. The sauce should be bubbling gently during cooking.
Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the rolls a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just cover them tightly to prevent drying out. When ready to cook, simply add them to the pot with the sauerkraut and sauce and follow the cooking instructions.
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).