There’s just something so comforting about old fashioned stuffed cabbage rolls, isn’t there? Growing up, I remember my grandma making these hearty little bundles of joy, filling our home with a warm, inviting aroma that would make anyone’s mouth water. The combination of savory ground beef and soft, tender cabbage leaves, all wrapped up in a sweet and tangy tomato sauce, brings back memories of family dinners and cozy gatherings. What I love most about this recipe is how it’s not just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate. With each bite, you’ll taste the love and nostalgia that goes into creating these delightful rolls. Trust me, once you try these old fashioned stuffed cabbage rolls, they’ll become a cherished favorite in your own kitchen!
Ingredients List
To whip up these delicious old fashioned stuffed cabbage rolls, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Trust me, they come together beautifully! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup uncooked rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
Make sure to grab fresh ingredients for the best flavor! Each component adds its own special touch, creating that cozy, comforting dish you’ll love.
How to Prepare Old Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Alright, let’s dive into creating these mouthwatering old fashioned stuffed cabbage rolls! It’s a straightforward process, and I promise, the results are worth every bit of effort. First, we need to get that cabbage ready.
Prepping the Cabbage
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, carefully add your cabbage head. Blanch the leaves for about 2-3 minutes—this softens them, making them easier to roll later. Use tongs to remove the leaves and set them aside to cool. You’ll want them nice and pliable!
Making the Filling
While the cabbage is cooling, it’s time to whip up the filling! In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, uncooked rice, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and paprika. I like to use my hands for this part—it’s the best way to get everything well combined! Let that mixture sit for a few minutes to let the flavors meld.
Assembling the Rolls
Now comes the fun part! Take a cabbage leaf and place a generous spoonful of the filling at the base. Fold the sides in and roll it up tightly, like a burrito! Repeat this for each leaf until all your filling is used up. Don’t worry if it takes a bit of practice; the taste is what really matters!
Baking the Rolls
Next, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, spread a little tomato sauce on the bottom to prevent sticking. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish. Pour the remaining tomato sauce mixed with water and brown sugar over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour. After that, remove the foil and let them bake for another 15 minutes for that lovely, caramelized finish!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to the nutrition of these old fashioned stuffed cabbage rolls, keep in mind that values can vary based on your specific ingredients and brands. On average, each roll contains about 250 calories, with 10g of fat, 15g of protein, and 30g of carbohydrates. Plus, you’ll find around 5g of sugar and 400mg of sodium. Remember, these numbers are just a guide, so feel free to get creative with your ingredients!
Tips for Success
To make sure your old fashioned stuffed cabbage rolls turn out perfectly, I’ve got some handy tips! First, don’t rush the blanching process; properly softened leaves make rolling a breeze. If you’re not a fan of beef, feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. You can also mix in some cooked quinoa or mushrooms into the filling for extra texture and flavor. Adjust the spices to your liking—add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat or some fresh herbs for a burst of freshness. And always taste the filling before rolling; it should be seasoned just right!
Variations of Old Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many delicious ways to switch up these old fashioned stuffed cabbage rolls! For a twist on the classic, try using ground pork or a mix of meats for a richer flavor. You can also substitute the rice with cooked quinoa or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. If you love spices, consider adding some cumin and coriander to the filling for an earthy kick or even some fresh herbs like dill for a burst of freshness. And for those who enjoy a bit of sweetness, mixing in some raisins or dried cranberries can add a delightful contrast to the savory meat. Get creative and make this recipe your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve enjoyed your old fashioned stuffed cabbage rolls, you might have some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). To store them, simply place the rolls in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to save some for later, they freeze wonderfully! Just wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
When it’s time to reheat, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight if frozen. Then, pop them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for a quicker option—just cover with a damp paper towel to keep them moist!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and satisfying, perfect for a cozy family dinner.
- Comforting flavors that evoke nostalgia with every bite.
- Easy to prepare, even for novice cooks.
- Versatile recipe that allows for personal touches and variations.
- Great for meal prep—freeze leftovers for a future feast!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of meat in my cabbage rolls?
Absolutely! While I love using ground beef for its rich flavor, you can easily substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even pork. Each option will bring its own unique taste to your old fashioned stuffed cabbage rolls!
How do I prevent the cabbage leaves from tearing?
Great question! The key is to blanch the cabbage leaves just enough to soften them, usually around 2-3 minutes. This helps to make them pliable. If you still encounter tearing, try cutting out the thick stem at the base of each leaf to make rolling easier.
Can these cabbage rolls be made ahead of time?
Yes, they’re perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the rolls and store them in the fridge for a day or two before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them before or after baking. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn!
What should I serve with old fashioned stuffed cabbage rolls?
These rolls are hearty enough on their own, but they pair wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or some creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal!
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done?
You’ll know they’re ready when the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through. If you want to be extra sure, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef.
Healthy Pasta Primavera | Soffice Torta di Mele | Pasta Primavera Recipe
Print
Old Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: 5 Comforting Secrets
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Old fashioned stuffed cabbage rolls filled with hearty meat and rice.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup uncooked rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 2 cups water
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bring a large pot of water to boil and blanch cabbage leaves for 2-3 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, rice, onion, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Place a spoonful of the mixture on each cabbage leaf and roll tightly.
- In a baking dish, spread some tomato sauce on the bottom.
- Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish.
- Mix remaining tomato sauce with water and brown sugar, then pour over the rolls.
- Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour.
- Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes.
Notes
- Use fresh cabbage for best results.
- Adjust spices according to your preference.
- Can be made ahead and frozen.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Eastern European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: cabbage rolls, stuffed cabbage, comfort food
