Unrolled Cabbage
Unrolled Cabbage features tender cabbage layered with savory hamburger and rice filling, baked in a tangy tomato sauce—comforting and flavorful, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix hamburger, salt, pepper, uncooked rice, 1/4 cup onions, tomatoes, brown sugar, vinegar, and chopped onions together.
- Layer cabbage leaves with the meat mixture twice in a baking dish.
- Cover and bake at 325°F for 1 hour.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 3 hours at 250°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flavorful twist, consider adding some smoked paprika or Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. If you don’t have cabbage on hand, collard greens can be a great substitute. Ensure the rice is washed thoroughly before adding it to the mix to improve its texture. If you prefer a vegetarian option, replace the hamburger with lentils or quinoa for a hearty filling.
Serving Suggestions
This unrolled cabbage dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. For a comforting side, serve it alongside mashed potatoes or cornbread. A dollop of sour cream on top adds a nice richness, and consider offering a tangy slaw to balance the flavors. It also goes well with a hearty soup like Hamburger Vegetable Lentil Soup.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave portions for quicker reheating, but be sure to cover them to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Unrolled Cabbage contains roughly 427 calories, with 8g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1751mg per serving (76% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the unrolled cabbage in advance. Assemble the layers in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
What can I do with leftover cabbage leaves?
Leftover cabbage leaves can be used in various ways. Chop them up for a fresh salad, sauté them with garlic and olive oil as a side dish, or add them to soups for extra nutrition. You can also use them to make wraps or in stir-fries.
Can I freeze unrolled cabbage?
Absolutely! Unrolled cabbage can be frozen. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F until warmed through.
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).