Pigs In The Blanket(Hamburger)
Juicy cabbage leaves wrapped around seasoned beef and rice, simmered in tomato sauce for a hearty, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place cabbage in a pot; pour boiling water over cabbage and cook for 10 minutes, boiling.
- Turn cabbage to cook for an additional 5 minutes. Don't overcook.
- Remove cabbage leaves from the pot.
- Mix ground beef, rice, beaten eggs, chopped onion, 1/2 cup of tomato sauce, salt, and pepper to season.
- Put 2 teaspoons of the mixture on each cabbage leaf.
- Roll up the leaf and secure with toothpicks.
- Place a rack in the bottom of a large pot; spread extra cabbage leaves on the rack.
- Fill the pot 3/4 full of tomato sauce and place the wrapped cabbage leaves (pigs) in the pot.
- Cook on high until boiling, then reduce to medium for 1 hour, then low for the remaining time.
- Total cooking time is approximately 2.5 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like dill or parsley into the meat mixture. If you're out of rice, quinoa or couscous can serve as great substitutes. Adjust the spice level by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Make sure not to overcook the cabbage to maintain its structure for wrapping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these pigs in the blanket warm, topped with extra tomato sauce or sour cream for dipping. They pair wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with a side of potato wedges or steamed vegetables. They also make a great dish for a casual gathering or a comforting family dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover pigs in the blanket can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a pot with some additional tomato sauce to keep them moist and heat over low heat until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave them for 1-2 minutes, checking to avoid drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pigs In The Blanket(Hamburger) contains roughly 268 calories, with 6g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% of the Daily Value), iron (10% of the Daily Value), and calcium (10% 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 the pigs in the blanket for later?
Yes, you can freeze the wrapped cabbage leaves before cooking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the cooking instructions as usual.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. Additionally, for a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or a plant-based meat substitute, making sure to adjust seasonings to enhance flavor.
How do I know when the pigs in the blanket are done cooking?
The pigs in the blanket are done when the cabbage is tender and the meat mixture reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). The dish should be bubbling in the sauce, indicating it's cooked through. Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving.
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).