Susanne'S Cabbage Rolls
Susanne's Cabbage Rolls feature tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of ground pork, beef, rice, and onions, then baked in a flavorful tomato sauce with bacon. This hearty, comforting dish is perfect for family dinners and those who enjoy classic, wholesome flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil a large pot of water and cook the cabbage until the leaves soften, removing leaves as they become tender.
- Remove the cabbage leaves from the water and cut off the large veins.
- Mix the ground pork, ground beef, chopped onion, rice, and chopped garlic together until well combined.
- Form the mixture into large balls.
- Place each meatball inside a cabbage leaf, fold the edges, and roll to enclose.
- Line the bottom of a heavy pot with cabbage leaves, then place the cabbage rolls inside.
- Cover the rolls with additional cabbage leaves and four strips of bacon.
- Fill the pot halfway with the saved water from boiling the cabbage.
- Cover the pot and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 2.5 to 3 hours.
- Serve the cabbage rolls topped with sour cream.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, substitute half of the ground meat with finely chopped mushrooms or lentils. You can also use pre-cooked rice to save time. If you don’t have tomato soup, crushed tomatoes or a homemade tomato sauce can work in its place. Be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream on top for added richness. They pair wonderfully with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. For a comforting twist, enjoy them alongside 'I Don'T Feel Like Cooking' Beef And Rice.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes. They can also be microwaved for quicker reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Susanne'S Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 829 calories, with 34g protein, 104g carbohydrates, and 31g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (68% of the Daily Value) and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1280mg per serving (56% 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 cabbage rolls?
Yes, cabbage rolls freeze well! After cooking and cooling, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake until heated through.
What can I use instead of cabbage?
If you're looking for a substitute, you can try using Swiss chard or collard greens. Both greens can be blanched and used similarly to cabbage leaves. However, keep in mind that they may have a slightly different flavor and texture.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done?
Cabbage rolls are done when they are heated through and the meat mixture reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). The cabbage should be tender, and the flavors will meld beautifully after the long cooking time.
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).