Stephanie'S Cabbage Rolls
Savory cabbage rolls filled with seasoned beef and rice, simmered in tomato soup for a hearty, comforting dish perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the hamburger with chopped onions, salt, and pepper in a skillet.
- Cook the rice separately until tender.
- Combine the cooked rice, browned hamburger mixture, and 3 cans of tomato soup.
- Steam the cabbage heads until the leaves are soft and easily separable.
- Lay a cabbage leaf flat, place about 2 tablespoons of the mixture in the center, and roll it up, folding in the sides.
- Layer the cabbage rolls closely in a large casserole dish or roasting pan.
- Top each layer with the remaining cans of tomato soup.
- Cover and cook slowly at 325-350°F (160-175°C) for 3 to 3.5 hours, watching to prevent boiling over.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use lean ground beef to avoid excess grease. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute half of the hamburger with ground turkey. To enhance flavor, consider adding garlic or herbs like thyme and oregano to the meat mixture. If you have leftover rice, it can be used as a shortcut in this recipe, saving you time.
Serving Suggestions
Serve cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish. They pair wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. For a hearty meal, consider serving with a side of Denise's Baked Beans, which complements the flavors of the cabbage rolls beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 25-30 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stephanie'S Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 933 calories, with 41g protein, 115g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (84% of the Daily Value), protein (83% of the Daily Value), and iron (57% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2920mg per serving (127% 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 cabbage rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cabbage rolls a day in advance. Assemble them, place in the casserole dish, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When ready to cook, simply increase the baking time by 15-20 minutes since they will be cold from the refrigerator.
What type of cabbage is best for rolls?
Savoy cabbage is ideal due to its tender leaves, making it easier to roll. However, regular green cabbage works well too. Just ensure to steam the leaves until soft so they can be easily separated without tearing.
Can I use a different meat for the filling?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives for a lighter option. You can also make a vegetarian version by using a mix of beans or lentils combined with the rice and seasonings for added flavor.
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).