Rolled Cabbage
Savory cabbage rolls filled with seasoned ground beef and rice, then baked in tomato soup for a hearty, comforting meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Parboil cabbage until softened and separate the leaves.
- Mix ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, and fried bacon plus drippings together.
- Fill each cabbage leaf with the meat mixture and roll up.
- Place the filled cabbage rolls in a roasting pan.
- Add a can of tomato soup and water to the pan.
- Bake at 350°F for about 1 hour or longer until cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your rolled cabbage, consider adding spices like garlic powder or paprika to the meat mixture. For a healthier twist, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use lentils or quinoa instead of meat. Additionally, using brown rice instead of Minute rice can add more texture and nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
These rolled cabbage dishes are hearty on their own but pair wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, consider serving with mashed potatoes or a creamy coleslaw. These flavors can also complement dishes like Cider Beef Stew, making it a great addition to a cozy dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover rolled cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the rolls with foil and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for quicker reheating, but be sure to cover them to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rolled Cabbage contains roughly 643 calories, with 22g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value) and iron (27% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1495mg per serving (65% 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 in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork for a different flavor profile. If you want a meatless option, consider using lentils, mushrooms, or quinoa mixed with your favorite vegetables.
How do I prevent the cabbage leaves from tearing?
To avoid tearing the cabbage leaves, make sure to parboil them just until they are softened but not fully cooked. Also, use a sharp knife to carefully cut the stem at the base of each leaf to make them more pliable before rolling.
Can I freeze rolled cabbage before or after cooking?
You can freeze rolled cabbage either before or after cooking. If freezing before, layer them in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between each roll. If freezing after cooking, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
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).