Stuffed Cabbage In Tomato Sauce
Savory stuffed cabbage rolls filled with seasoned ground beef and rice, simmered in a rich tomato sauce—comforting and flavorful, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and egg until well blended.
- Trim off the thickest part of the stem from each cabbage leaf. Divide the meat mixture into 12 portions.
- Wrap each portion in a cabbage leaf and secure with toothpicks.
- Brown the cabbage rolls in oil until lightly browned.
- Add the tomato sauce and water to the pan.
- Cover and simmer for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider incorporating herbs like parsley or dill into the meat mixture. If you prefer a lighter option, ground turkey or chicken can be used instead of beef. To enhance the sauce, add a splash of vinegar or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity. For a variation, try adding chopped bell peppers or mushrooms to the filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed cabbage with crusty bread or over a bed of mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. A side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad can add brightness to the dish. For a heartier option, consider pairing it with a rich beef stew, like the Beef In Wine.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed cabbage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the rolls in a baking dish with a little extra sauce and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Cabbage In Tomato Sauce contains roughly 725 calories, with 12g protein, 73g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1254mg per serving (55% 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 prepare stuffed cabbage ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare stuffed cabbage a day in advance. Simply assemble the rolls and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook. This allows the flavors to meld together, making the dish even more delicious. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.
How do I prevent the cabbage leaves from tearing?
To prevent tearing, blanch the cabbage leaves in boiling water for a few minutes until they are pliable. This softens the leaves, making them easier to wrap around the filling. You can also freeze the whole head of cabbage for a couple of days and then thaw it; this helps loosen the leaves as well.
What can I serve with stuffed cabbage?
Stuffed cabbage pairs wonderfully with a dollop of sour cream on top. You can also serve it alongside a simple yogurt dressing or a tangy coleslaw. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a light soup, like Company Onion Soup, to start.
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).