These comforting cabbage rolls are a timeless family favorite. Tender cabbage leaves are stuffed with a hearty, savory filling of beef and rice, then slow-baked in a rich, tangy tomato sauce until perfectly tender. Topped with a generous layer of melted cheese, this dish is the definition of homestyle comfort food.<\/p>\n
Yields: 4-6 servings
\nPrep Time: 30 minutes
\nCook Time: 1 hour
\nTotal Time: 1 hour 30 minutes<\/p>\n
Ingredientes
\nFor the Cabbage Rolls:<\/p>\n
1 large head of cabbage<\/p>\n
1 lb lean ground beef<\/p>\n
1\/2 medium onion, finely chopped<\/p>\n
2 cloves garlic, minced<\/p>\n
1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice<\/p>\n
1 huevo grande, ligeramente batido<\/p>\n
1\/2 cup milk<\/p>\n
1 tsp salt<\/p>\n
1\/2 tsp black pepper<\/p>\n
For the Tomato Sauce:<\/p>\n
1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce<\/p>\n
2 tbsp ketchup<\/p>\n
1 tbsp brown sugar<\/p>\n
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce<\/p>\n
1\/2 tsp lemon juice<\/p>\n
For Topping:<\/p>\n
1 cup shredded cheese (such as mozzarella, cheddar, or Monterey Jack)<\/p>\n
Instructions:<\/p>\n
1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves:<\/p>\n
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.<\/p>\n
Carefully cut around the core of the cabbage and remove it. Gently place the whole head of cabbage into the boiling water.<\/p>\n
Boil for about 5-7 minutes, or until the outer leaves are soft and pliable. Using tongs, carefully peel off 8-10 large leaves. Place them on a tray to cool completely.<\/p>\n
Once cool, use a paring knife to shave down the thick center stem of each leaf so it\u2019s easier to roll.<\/p>\n
2. Make the Filling:<\/p>\n
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped onion, minced garlic, uncooked rice, beaten egg, and milk. Season with the salt and pepper.<\/p>\n
Mix everything together with your hands or a spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.<\/p>\n
3. Prepare the Sauce:<\/p>\n
In a separate bowl, whisk together the tomato sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice until smooth.<\/p>\n
4. Assemble the Rolls:<\/p>\n
Preheat your oven to 350\u00b0F (175\u00b0C).<\/p>\n
Spread about half of the tomato sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9\u00d713 inch baking dish.<\/p>\n
Lay a prepared cabbage leaf flat on a work surface. Place about 1\/4 cup of the beef mixture near the bottom (stem) end of the leaf.<\/p>\n
Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top, like a burrito. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.<\/p>\n
Place each finished roll seam-side down in the sauced baking dish, arranging them snugly in a single layer.<\/p>\n
5. Bake:<\/p>\n
Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the top of the cabbage rolls.<\/p>\n
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.<\/p>\n
Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the rice and beef are fully cooked and the cabbage is tender.<\/p>\n
6. Add Cheese and Serve:<\/p>\n
Remove the dish from the oven and carefully remove the foil. Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the hot rolls.<\/p>\n
Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, for 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.<\/p>\n
Let the rolls rest for 5 minutes before serving.<\/p>\n
Serving Suggestions
\nClassic Comfort: Serve alongside creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles.<\/p>\n
Lighter Option: Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans.<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t Waste the Sauce: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious extra sauce.<\/p>\n
Helpful Tips
\nEasier Leaf Removal: For an easier method, freeze the whole head of cabbage overnight. Thaw it completely, and the leaves will be soft and ready to use without boiling.<\/p>\n
Rice Note: Using uncooked rice is traditional as it absorbs moisture from the meat and sauce during cooking, resulting in a perfectly textured filling.<\/p>\n
Customize It: Feel free to add 1\/2 teaspoon of dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or parsley to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.<\/p>\n
Nutritional Highlights
\nThis dish offers a well-balanced meal in one! Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamins C and K, while lean ground beef provides high-quality protein and iron. The combination of ingredients creates a satisfying dish rich in essential nutrients.<\/p>\n\n