Spicy Cabbage Rolls
Spicy cabbage rolls filled with seasoned ground beef, rice, and vegetables, baked in a tangy tomato sauce for a hearty, flavorful meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove 10 large outer leaves of cabbage; cook in boiling salted water 5 to 8 minutes or until just tender; drain and set aside.
- Reserve remaining cabbage for other uses.
- Combine ground beef, chopped onion, chopped green pepper, chopped celery, Worcestershire sauce, cooked rice, salt, and pepper.
- Place equal portions of meat mixture in center of each cabbage leaf.
- Fold 2 opposite ends over and place rolls, seam side down, in a lightly greased 13 x 9 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Combine tomato paste, water, and undrained tomatoes with green chiles; pour over cabbage rolls.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture. If you don't have green chiles, you can substitute with diced bell peppers. For a healthier version, swap ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based alternative. Ensure the cabbage leaves are pliable to avoid tearing when rolling. You can also use leftover rice from other meals to save time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these spicy cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for added flavor. Pair them with a side salad or crusty bread to complete the meal. They also go well with dishes like Savory Ground Stew or Quick Beans And Beef, offering a hearty combination of flavors and textures.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a splash of water or sauce, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F until heated through. They can also be microwaved for quicker reheating, but be careful to avoid drying them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spicy Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 81 calories, with 4g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (56% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 771mg per serving (34% 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
What types of meat can I use for the filling?
You can use various meats like ground turkey, pork, or chicken instead of ground beef. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or a mix of beans. Each will impart a different flavor and texture, making this dish versatile and accommodating for different dietary preferences.
How do I prevent the cabbage leaves from tearing?
To prevent tearing, ensure the cabbage leaves are cooked just until tender but still firm. Alternatively, you can freeze the cabbage head for a few hours before using it; this helps soften the leaves without cooking them. If you encounter any tears, use smaller pieces of cabbage to patch them up.
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).