Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish

Short Description

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a classic comfort food featuring tender cabbage leaves enveloping a savory mixture of ground beef and rice, all simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners and special occasions alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: The combination of meat, rice, and cabbage makes for a filling meal.

• Flavorful: Simmering in tomato sauce infuses the rolls with deep, rich flavors.

• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and reheat when ready to serve.

• Versatile: Easily adaptable with different meats or grains to suit dietary preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 pounds ground beef

• 3.5 pounds chopped cabbage

• 29 ounces canned tomato sauce

• 1 cup chopped onion

• 1 cup uncooked white rice

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 28 ounces canned beef broth

Directions

1. Prepare the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully add the chopped cabbage and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Rice: In a separate pot, cook the white rice according to package instructions. Set aside.

3. Sauté Onions: In a large skillet, sauté the chopped onions until translucent.

4. Combine Filling: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, cooked rice, sautéed onions, and salt until well combined.

5. Assemble the Dish: In a large baking dish, layer half of the chopped cabbage. Spread the meat and rice mixture evenly over the cabbage layer. Top with the remaining cabbage.

6. Add Sauce: Pour the canned tomato sauce and beef broth over the layered cabbage and meat.

7. Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is fully cooked and the cabbage is tender.

8. Serve: Allow the dish to rest for 10 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: Approximately 8 servings

• Preparation Time: 30 minutes

• Cooking Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

• Total Time: 2 to 2.5 hours

Variations

• Meat Alternatives: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a different flavor profile.

• Grain Options: Use brown rice, quinoa, or bulgur wheat instead of white rice for added nutrition.

• Vegetarian Version: Replace meat with a mixture of lentils, mushrooms, and rice.

• Spice it Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a spicier kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Freezing: Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

What type of cabbage is best for this recipe?

Green cabbage is commonly used due to its sturdy leaves, which hold up well during cooking. However, savoy cabbage can also be used for a more tender texture.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish a day in advance and refrigerate it. Bake it just before serving.

Is it necessary to cook the rice before assembling the dish?

Yes, pre-cooking the rice ensures it is fully cooked and prevents excess moisture in the final dish.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned tomato sauce?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Blanch, peel, and puree them to substitute for canned tomato sauce.

How do I prevent the cabbage from becoming too soggy?

Avoid overcooking the cabbage during the initial boiling step. Cook just until tender, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes, sprinkling shredded cheese on top before baking can add a delicious cheesy crust.

What sides pair well with stuffed cabbage rolls?

Mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple green salad complement this dish well.

How do I make this dish spicier?

Incorporate spices like cayenne pepper, paprika, or chopped chili peppers into the meat mixture for added heat.

Can I cook this dish in a slow cooker?

Yes, assemble the dish as directed and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the meat is fully cooked and the cabbage is tender.

Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, ensure all ingredients used, including broth and tomato sauce, are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a timeless dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is both delicious and versatile.

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Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish

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• Author: Olivia
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Eastern European
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This hearty Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish combines tender chopped cabbage with seasoned ground beef, rice, and a savory tomato sauce for a comforting family meal. Perfect for anyone searching for a classic stuffed cabbage recipe that’s simple yet satisfying.

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Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground beef

• 3.5 pounds chopped cabbage

• 29 ounces canned tomato sauce

• 1 cup chopped onion

• 1 cup uncooked white rice

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 28 ounces canned beef broth

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Instructions

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

• In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, then drain any excess fat.

• Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.

• Stir in the uncooked rice, salt, half of the tomato sauce, and half of the beef broth. Mix well.

• In a large baking dish, layer half of the chopped cabbage.

• Spread the beef and rice mixture over the cabbage.

• Top with the remaining cabbage.

• Pour the remaining tomato sauce and beef broth evenly over the top.

• Cover tightly with foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the rice is fully cooked.

• Let sit for 10 minutes before serving.

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Notes

• For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the meat mixture.

• This dish can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days before baking.

• Freezes well; just thaw before reheating.