Cabbage Rolls Ground Beef: 10 Savory Steps to Perfection

Cabbage Rolls Ground Beef are a delightful comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. These savory rolls are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef and rice, all wrapped in tender cabbage leaves. With each bite, they offer a perfect blend of taste and texture that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re looking for a hearty dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Rolls Ground Beef

There’s so much to love about Cabbage Rolls Ground Beef. First, they are incredibly easy to make, perfect for weeknight dinners. Second, they are a great way to use up leftover rice and ground beef. Third, the combination of flavors from the spices and sauces creates a deliciously satisfying meal. Furthermore, these rolls are versatile; you can easily customize the filling to suit your tastes. Plus, they are low calorie, making them a healthier option for dinner. Lastly, they are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy them throughout the week!

Ingredients for Cabbage Rolls Ground Beef

Gather these items:

• 15 ounces crushed tomatoes (canned)
• 16 ounces tomato sauce (two 8-ounce cans)
• 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 head green cabbage
• 1 pound ground beef
• ½ cup finely chopped yellow onion
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup cooked and cooled white rice
• ¼ cup reserved sauce from above
• 1 large egg, room temperature and lightly beaten
• ½ teaspoon fresh dill, chopped

How to Make Cabbage Rolls Ground Beef Step-by-Step

1. Step 1: Combine crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, light brown sugar, tomato paste, white vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl until fully integrated. Reserve ¼ cup for the filling. Spread ½ cup of sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish and set aside.
2. Step 2: Set the oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Step 3: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Trim the stem from the cabbage and submerge the whole head in boiling water for 5 minutes to soften the leaves.
4. Step 4: Remove cabbage from water and place it in a colander to drain and cool. Keep the water hot for possible reheating of tougher leaves. Carefully separate 12 outer leaves without tearing and place on paper towels to drain.
5. Step 5: Over medium-high heat, cook ground beef, chopped onion, dried parsley, oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper in a large skillet for 5-7 minutes until beef is no longer pink and onion is tender. Drain excess fat and remove from heat.
6. Step 6: Mix cooked meat mixture with cooked rice, reserved ¼ cup sauce, beaten egg, and chopped dill until uniform. Allow to cool slightly before assembling.
7. Step 7: Using a sharp paring knife, cut out the tough stalk at the base of each cabbage leaf in a V shape to facilitate rolling.
8. Step 8: Place a cabbage leaf flat. Spoon approximately ¼ cup filling into the top third of the leaf. Fold the top, then the sides inward, and roll tightly from the base like a burrito. Tuck edges securely to prevent opening during baking. Arrange each roll seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
9. Step 9: Pour remaining sauce evenly over stuffed rolls. Cover tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 75 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
10. Step 10: Remove foil and spoon sauce over rolls if needed to keep moist. Let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Cabbage Rolls Ground Beef

Keep these in mind:

• Using a sharp knife to cut the cabbage stalk makes rolling much easier.
• Make sure to drain excess fat from the beef to keep the rolls from becoming greasy.
• For extra flavor, add more spices to the meat mixture, such as cumin or paprika.
• These savory cabbage rolls with beef can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking.

Best Ways to Serve Cabbage Rolls Ground Beef

When it comes to serving, these rolls are delightful on their own, but you can elevate the meal by pairing them with:

• Freshly baked bread or garlic bread.
• A side salad to add freshness and crunch.
• Mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

How to Store and Reheat Cabbage Rolls Ground Beef

After enjoying your Cabbage Rolls Ground Beef, any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place them in a baking dish, cover with aluminum foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. This makes them a fantastic option for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About Cabbage Rolls Ground Beef

What is a Cabbage Roll with Ground Beef?

A Cabbage Roll with Ground Beef is a traditional dish where cabbage leaves are filled with a mixture of ground beef, rice, and spices, then baked in tomato sauce. This hearty meal is popular in many cultures.

Can I make Cabbage Rolls Ground Beef ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls in advance and store them in the fridge. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve for a quick and easy dinner.

Why Use Ground Beef in Cabbage Rolls?

Ground beef adds rich flavor and protein to the rolls, making them satisfying and filling. It also blends well with the seasonings and other ingredients for a delicious dish.

Variations of Cabbage Rolls Ground Beef You Can Try

Here are some tasty variations you might enjoy:

• For a twist, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.
• Add chopped vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to the filling for extra nutrition.
• Create a Cabbage Roll Casserole with Ground Beef by layering the ingredients in a baking dish instead of rolling them.
• For a spicier version, incorporate crushed red pepper flakes into the meat mixture.

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection or explore Persian Chicken for a different flavor profile. If you’re interested in meatballs, our Romanian Chiftele recipe is a must-try!

For more information on the health benefits of cabbage, you can visit Healthline.

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