Stuffed Whole Cabbage
A hearty stuffed cabbage dish featuring seasoned ground beef and rice, baked until tender. Perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers seeking savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Remove the core from the cabbage and hollow out the center to create a shell.
- Combine ground beef, tomato sauce, rice, egg, dry onion soup mix, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Mix the ingredients well until combined.
- Spoon the mixture into the cabbage shell and place it in a 1 1/2-quart glass baking dish.
- Microwave, tightly covered, on High for 17 minutes, turning after 9 minutes.
- Let the stuffed cabbage stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful filling, consider adding sautéed onions or garlic to the meat mixture. You can substitute the lean ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. If you prefer a vegetarian version, try using lentils or a mixture of your favorite vegetables. For added taste, mix in some herbs like parsley or dill. Experiment with spices to customize the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the stuffed cabbage hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Beef Stroganoff for a comforting dinner. This dish also makes for a lovely presentation at family gatherings or potlucks.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, place the stuffed cabbage in a microwave-safe dish, cover it, and heat on medium power until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, you can reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Whole Cabbage contains roughly 123 calories, with 4g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1372mg per serving (60% 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 the stuffed cabbage ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed cabbage a day in advance. Assemble the dish as instructed, then cover it tightly and refrigerate. When you're ready to cook, simply microwave it as directed, adjusting the cooking time if necessary since it will be cold from the fridge.
What can I use instead of tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can use crushed tomatoes or diced tomatoes as a substitute. You can also mix in some tomato paste with water for a similar consistency. For a different flavor, consider using barbecue sauce or a spicy salsa for an exciting twist.
How do I know when the stuffed cabbage is done cooking?
The stuffed cabbage is done when the meat is fully cooked and no longer pink, and the cabbage is tender. If you're unsure, you can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach at least 160°F (70°C) for ground beef.
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).