Stuff Cabbage

Prep: 20 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: Eastern European

Stuffed cabbage rolls feature tender cabbage leaves filled with savory seasoned beef and rice, offering hearty comfort and rich flavors suitable for family dinners or special occasions.

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Ingredients

  • 1 large cabbage
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 medium onion
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp pepper
  • 1 cup cooked rice

Instructions

  1. Remove leaves from cabbage; set aside.
  2. Cook ground beef, onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and 1 cup diced cabbage until brown, about 15 minutes.
  3. Stir in cooked rice and 1 cup sauce; remove from heat.
  4. Fill cabbage leaves with the beef mixture.
  5. Roll up the filled cabbage leaves and cook until heated through.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped carrots or celery to the beef mixture. If you're short on time, pre-cooked or leftover meat can substitute for the ground beef. You can also use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier alternative to regular rice. If you're feeling adventurous, try experimenting with spices like paprika or cumin for a unique twist.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the stuffed cabbage rolls with a side of sour cream or a drizzle of your favorite sauce for added flavor. They pair beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad. For a hearty meal, consider serving alongside mashed potatoes or a side of steamed vegetables. Check out Halubki Polish Stuffed Cabbage for a delightful variation to try.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover stuffed cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the cabbage rolls in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quicker option.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Stuff Cabbage contains roughly 110 calories, with 4g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (112% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1930mg per serving (84% of the Daily Value).

110 kcal 5% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3.6g 7% DV
Total Fat 4.3g 5% DV
Carbs 16.2g 6% DV
Fiber 4.7g 17% DV
Sugar 3.7g 7% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1930.4mg 84% DV
Potassium 420.8mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 0.4mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 72.3mcg 8% DV
Vitamin C 100.9mg 100% DV
Calcium 49.7mg 4% DV
Iron 1.2mg 7% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal

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 stuffed cabbage ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed cabbage rolls and refrigerate them before cooking. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil. When ready to cook, simply bake them directly from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are heated through.

Can I freeze stuffed cabbage?

Yes, stuffed cabbage freezes well. After assembling the rolls, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. To cook from frozen, add extra cooking time while baking until fully heated.

What can I substitute for ground beef?

You can easily swap out ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein like lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Adjust seasonings to match your chosen protein, as different meats may have varying flavor profiles. This flexibility allows you to customize the dish to your dietary preferences.

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).

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