Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Stuffed cabbage rolls are a hearty and comforting dish filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, rice, and spices, all wrapped in tender cabbage leaves. With a tangy tomato sauce on top, this dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, satisfying both meat lovers and vegetable enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover cabbage leaves with boiling water.
- Let stand until limp, about 10 minutes.
- Remove and drain.
- Mix ground beef, rice, onion, salt, pepper, garlic salt, and half of the tomato sauce.
- Place about 1/3 cup of meat mixture at the stem end of each leaf and roll leaf around the mixture, tucking in the sides.
- Place rolls seam side down in an 8 x 8 x 2-inch baking dish.
- Mix remaining ingredients and pour over cabbage rolls.
- Cover and bake at 350° for 45 minutes or until ground beef is done.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure the cabbage leaves are pliable, blanch them in boiling water for about 10 minutes. For a healthier option, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also use brown rice instead of instant rice for added texture and nutrition. Add some chopped herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed cabbage rolls can be served with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. Pair them with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. They also go well with a side of mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables, making it a comforting dinner option.
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 baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave them on medium power until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 165 calories, with 8g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (160% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (71% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2294mg per serving (100% 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 stuffed cabbage rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed cabbage rolls a day in advance. After assembling them, cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, simply adjust the cooking time slightly if they’re cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes can work as a substitute. You can also blend in some tomato paste with water for a similar consistency and flavor.
Can I freeze stuffed cabbage rolls?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the rolls and place them in a freezer-safe container before baking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed.
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).