BlogCarnivore RecipesHealthy High-Protein Brownies (Fudgy, Gooey, 205 Calories Each)High Protein RecipeKeto RecipesLow-CarbMeal PlanMediterranean DietRecipeSuccess StoriesWeight Loss DrinkWW Recipes

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Updated on 5 min read

Quick Description

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a comforting and hearty dish filled with seasoned ground beef or turkey, rice, and a savory tomato sauce. These rolls are wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and baked to perfection. Perfect for a cozy dinner, they’re a favorite family meal that’s both filling and flavorful.

Servings & Timing

  • Serves: 4–6
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour
  • Total Time: ~1 hour 20 minutes

Ingredients List

  • 1 large cabbage head
  • 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey (your choice)
  • 1/2 cup cooked rice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing onions)

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves:
    Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cut out the core of the cabbage to make it easier to separate the leaves. Place the whole cabbage in the pot and boil for 5–7 minutes, or until the leaves are softened. Carefully peel off the outer leaves as they soften, being gentle so they don’t tear. You’ll need about 12–15 leaves.
  2. Cook the Filling:
    In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the ground beef or turkey to the pan, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. Once the meat is browned and cooked through, stir in the cooked rice and Worcestershire sauce (if using). Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Stuff the Cabbage Leaves:
    Place one cabbage leaf flat on a cutting board. Add a few tablespoons of the meat and rice mixture in the center. Fold in the sides of the leaf, then roll it up tightly like a burrito. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
  4. Prepare the Sauce:
    In a medium bowl, mix the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce together. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Assemble the Rolls:
    In a large baking dish, spread a little of the tomato sauce mixture on the bottom. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish. Pour the remaining tomato sauce mixture over the rolls, covering them completely.
  6. Bake:
    Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to allow the rolls to slightly crisp up.
  7. Serve:
    Remove the cabbage rolls from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Nutrition (per serving)

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbs: 25g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 6g

Benefits

  • Hearty & Filling: A great meal that’s full of protein and carbs to keep you full for hours.
  • Customizable: You can easily swap out ground beef for ground turkey or even a meat-free option like lentils or mushrooms.
  • Comforting: The warm, tender cabbage leaves combined with the savory filling and rich tomato sauce make for a perfect cozy dinner.

Additional Notes

  • Freezer-Friendly: These stuffed cabbage rolls freeze well. Simply wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.
  • Gluten-Free Option: The recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free rice.

Dietary Info

  • Gluten-Free: Yes (if using gluten-free rice)
  • Dairy-Free: Yes
  • Keto-Friendly: Not keto, but you can use cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version
  • Low-Carb: Not typically low-carb, but cauliflower rice can be used for a low-carb alternative.

Brief Introduction

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a classic comfort food, and this version is sure to become a family favorite. The savory meat and rice filling wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and smothered in a rich tomato sauce make this a filling, delicious, and hearty meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.

Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

  1. Boil cabbage leaves to soften.
  2. Cook the filling with ground meat, onions, rice, and spices.
  3. Stuff and roll the cabbage leaves with the meat mixture.
  4. Prepare the sauce and cover the rolls in the baking dish.
  5. Bake for 45 minutes, uncover, and bake for an additional 15 minutes.

Ingredient Details & Substitutions

  • Ground Meat: You can use ground turkey, chicken, or beef for this recipe depending on your preference. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils, quinoa, or mushrooms.
  • Rice: If you’re looking for a low-carb alternative, use cauliflower rice.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

  • Add cheese: For a cheesy version, sprinkle shredded cheese (like mozzarella or cheddar) on top of the rolls in the last 10 minutes of baking.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
  • Serve With: These rolls go perfectly with a side of mashed potatoes, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables.

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Refrigerate: Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Wrap individual cabbage rolls in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

You may also like...