Polly'S Cabbage Rolls
Polly's Cabbage Rolls feature tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of meats and rice, topped with creamy tomato sauce—comfort food perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the core out of the cabbage. Place the cabbage in a large pot with enough water to cover it.
- Bring the water to a boil and cook until the cabbage leaves are soft.
- Carefully remove the cabbage from the boiling water to prevent overcooking, and drain in a colander.
- In a bowl, combine ground hamburger, ground pork, rice, chopped onion, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon the meat mixture onto softened cabbage leaves and roll them up snugly.
- Place the cabbage rolls in a large pot or baking dish.
- Pour the tomatoes and cream cheese over the rolls.
- Cover and simmer or bake until the meat is cooked through and flavors meld, about 60 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
To make the preparation easier, use pre-cooked rice or even leftover rice from a previous meal. If you prefer a lighter version, swap ground pork for ground turkey or chicken. For added flavor, consider incorporating garlic or fresh herbs into the meat mixture. If you have extra cabbage leaves, you can also use them as a base in the baking dish, similar to a German Cabbage dish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added freshness. They pair wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving a crisp salad or Herring Salad on the side.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a splash of water and cover with foil, then heat in a 350°F oven for about 20-25 minutes. You can also microwave, but be gentle to maintain texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Polly'S Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 999 calories, with 37g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 67g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (74% of the Daily Value), protein (73% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1927mg per serving (84% 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 cabbage rolls?
Yes, cabbage rolls freeze well! After assembling them, place the rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, add additional baking time or thaw them overnight in the fridge before cooking.
What can I substitute for the cream cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute for cream cheese, ricotta or cottage cheese can work well to provide creaminess. For a dairy-free option, try using cashew cream or a vegan cream cheese alternative. Adjust seasoning to taste, as these substitutes may vary in flavor.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done cooking?
Cabbage rolls are done when the meat is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. The cabbage should be tender but not mushy. You can cut one open to check if the meat is no longer pink and the rice is fully cooked. Simmering for about 60 minutes usually ensures everything melds perfectly.
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).