Stuffed Cabbage Roll
Savory stuffed cabbage rolls filled with seasoned ground beef and rice, simmered in tomato sauce for a hearty, comforting meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook cabbage leaves in boiling salted water a few minutes to soften; drain.
- Combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, slightly beaten egg, salt, and pepper with 2 tablespoons of condensed tomato soup.
- Divide the meat mixture among the softened cabbage leaves.
- Roll up the cabbage leaves and secure each with toothpicks.
- Place the cabbage rolls in a skillet and pour the remaining tomato soup over them.
- Cover and cook over low heat for about 40 minutes, stirring often and spooning sauce over the rolls.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, ensure the cabbage leaves are thoroughly softened before rolling. If you don't have ground beef, ground turkey or chicken works well as a substitute. You can also add spices like garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor. For a vegetarian option, replace the meat with a mix of mushrooms and lentils. This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
Serving Suggestions
Serve stuffed cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream on top for added creaminess. They pair well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a hearty option, consider serving them alongside Irish Beef Stew. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or meal prep for the week.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover stuffed cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or additional tomato soup to prevent drying out. Cover and heat until warmed through, about 15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Cabbage Roll contains roughly 560 calories, with 13g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (115% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (56% of the Daily Value), and calcium (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2680mg per serving (117% 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 freeze stuffed cabbage rolls?
Yes, stuffed cabbage rolls can be frozen. After cooking, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months and reheated directly from frozen.
What can I use instead of tomato soup?
If you don't have tomato soup, you can substitute it with crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce. For a creamier version, consider using a mixture of tomato sauce and a little heavy cream. Adjust the seasoning accordingly to maintain the flavor balance in the dish.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done cooking?
Cabbage rolls are done when the meat is fully cooked and the cabbage leaves are tender. You can check the internal temperature of the meat; it should reach 160°F. Additionally, the sauce should be bubbling lightly. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
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).