Unrolled Cabbage Rolls
Unrolled cabbage rolls feature tender cabbage leaves filled with savory ground meat and rice, baked in a flavorful tomato sauce—perfect for comfort food lovers and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Spray a pan, add chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until translucent.
- Add chicken broth and uncooked rice; bring to a boil and simmer for 25 minutes.
- Pre-cook the cabbage, then chop it into pieces.
- Combine browned ground meat, cooked rice, egg white, chopped parsley, margarine, salt, and pepper; mix well.
- Spray a 3-quart casserole dish, line the bottom with half of the chopped cabbage.
- Layer the meat mixture over the cabbage, then cover with the remaining cabbage.
- Mix tomato soup and water, then pour the mixture over the layered cabbage and meat.
- Cover the casserole and bake at 350°F for 1 hour, then reduce temperature to 325°F and bake for an additional 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using brown rice instead of white for a nuttier taste and extra fiber. If you're short on time, pre-cooked or frozen cabbage can save effort. To make it vegetarian, substitute the ground meat with lentils or a meat alternative. Adjust the soup seasoning to your liking, adding some Italian herbs for a twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the unrolled cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream and a side of crusty bread for a hearty meal. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables would pair nicely, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors. For something different, consider serving alongside Chicken Salad Or Cucumber Rounds for a light appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, warming at 350°F until heated through, about 25-30 minutes. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Unrolled Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 1146 calories, with 23g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (107% of the Daily Value), iron (69% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2585mg per serving (112% 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 this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply layer the ingredients, cover, and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What type of ground meat works best for this recipe?
While ground beef is the traditional choice, you can use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a richer flavor, try a combination of meats or even ground sausage for added spice.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just ensure that the tomato soup and chicken broth you use are gluten-free. Substituting white rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice can also keep this dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
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).