Rhonda'S Favorite Cabbage Roll
A hearty and flavorful cabbage roll dish featuring seasoned ground beef, rice, and tangy sauerkraut, baked in tomato juice for a comforting family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Core the cabbage and place it in boiling water so leaves will peel and roll easily.
- Peel off leaves as needed with tongs or a fork.
- Mix ground beef, diced onion, Rice-A-Roni beef flavor, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Roll 2-inch balls of the meat mixture in each cabbage leaf.
- Place the rolls tightly together in a baking pan.
- Spread sauerkraut over the cabbage rolls.
- Pour tomato juice over the cabbage rolls and sauerkraut.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some herbs like thyme or dill to the meat mixture. If you're short on time, you can substitute the Rice-A-Roni with cooked rice or quinoa, though the flavor will differ slightly. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and feel free to experiment with other ingredients such as bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance the filling, similar to what you might find in Beef And Cabbage Dinner.
Serving Suggestions
These cabbage rolls pair beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream on top adds a creamy richness. For a heartier meal, consider serving with mashed potatoes or a vegetable medley. Explore more delicious American recipes for further inspiration.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the cabbage rolls in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rhonda'S Favorite Cabbage Roll contains roughly 153 calories, with 6g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (121% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 699mg per serving (30% 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 these cabbage rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cabbage rolls in advance and store them in the refrigerator before baking. Just cover them well with plastic wrap or foil. When you're ready to cook, remove them from the fridge and bake them as directed, allowing a few extra minutes if they're chilled.
What can I use instead of tomato juice?
If you don't have tomato juice on hand, you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes or a mixture of tomato sauce and water. For a different flavor profile, consider using vegetable broth or a light sauce made from canned tomatoes. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain balance.
Can I freeze leftover cabbage rolls?
Absolutely! Cabbage rolls freeze well. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper if needed. They can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
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).