Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a classic comfort food, offering a delicious blend of seasoned ground beef, rice, and savory tomato sauce, all wrapped in tender cabbage leaves. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a hearty meal for a crowd, this recipe is simple yet full of flavor, making it a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 head cabbage
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 can tomato soup
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
3. Core the cabbage and carefully remove the leaves one by one.
4. Blanch the cabbage leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then remove and drain.
5. In a bowl, mix together the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, salt, and pepper.
6. Place a spoonful of the meat mixture onto each cabbage leaf and roll up.
7. Place the cabbage rolls in a baking dish and pour tomato soup over the top.
8. Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: For extra flavor and nutrition, add finely chopped carrots or celery to the meat filling.
• Use Ground Turkey or Pork: If you prefer a lighter alternative, use ground turkey or ground pork instead of beef.
• Tomato Sauce or Puree: Instead of tomato soup, use tomato sauce or puree for a more homemade feel and richer flavor.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeños to the filling for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat in the microwave.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cabbage leaves? Yes, frozen cabbage leaves can be used, but they should be thawed before rolling.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the cabbage rolls ahead of time, assemble them, and refrigerate them before baking.
3. Can I freeze stuffed cabbage rolls? Yes, you can freeze the assembled, uncooked cabbage rolls for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking.
4. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice? Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice for a healthier option, though the texture may be a bit firmer.
5. How do I avoid tearing the cabbage leaves? Be sure to blanch the cabbage leaves long enough to soften them, and remove them gently to avoid tearing.
6. What can I use instead of tomato soup? You can use tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, or a combination of both for a thicker sauce.
7. Can I add cheese to the cabbage rolls? Yes, adding shredded cheese like cheddar or mozzarella to the meat filling or on top of the rolls before baking will add extra richness.
8. How can I make this dish vegetarian? Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat substitute or a mixture of lentils and rice for a vegetarian version.
9. Can I cook these cabbage rolls in a slow cooker? Yes, you can cook the stuffed cabbage rolls in a slow cooker on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.
10. How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done? The cabbage rolls are done when the filling is fully cooked, and the cabbage is tender. You can check the center of a roll by cutting one open to ensure it’s cooked through.

Conclusion

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a comforting and hearty dish, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. With its blend of savory ground beef, rice, and tangy tomato sauce, it’s sure to satisfy. This recipe is flexible and can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences, making it a timeless favorite that can be enjoyed by everyone.