Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe for Dinner
Cabbage rolls are like a warm hug on a cold day, bringing together ground beef, pork, and fluffy rice, all wrapped in tender cabbage leaves. Imagine biting into those layers, where savory meets succulent and every bite feels like a celebration. This Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe promises not only comfort but also a taste adventure that you won’t soon forget.
Picture this: it’s a cozy evening, and the aroma of these delightful rolls wafts through your kitchen, beckoning everyone to gather around the table. This dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even just because you deserve a delicious meal after a long day. Packed with flavor and a sprinkle of nostalgia, these cabbage rolls are sure to become a beloved staple in your home.
Why You'll Love This Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe
- This incredible Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
Ingredients for Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe:
½ pound ground beef – Choose a good quality beef for a meaty flavor and moisture.
½ pound ground pork – This adds a nice richness and juiciness to the rolls.
¾ cup parboiled long-grain rice – This kind of rice cooks evenly and holds up well in the rolls.
½ yellow onion, minced – Fresh onion enhances the savory base of the filling.
3 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic infuses the dish with a fragrant aroma and depth of flavor.
1 teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing all other flavors in the dish.
1 teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a bit of spice and enhances the meat flavor.
1 teaspoon dried thyme – This earthy herb complements the meat beautifully.
½ teaspoon dried sage – Sage brings a warm flavor that pairs perfectly with the rest.
1 tablespoon olive oil – A drizzle to help prevent sticking and add flavor.
1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce – This provides a delicious, tangy sauce for the rolls.
1 cup chicken broth – Use low-sodium to control saltiness; it adds moisture during baking.
1 (2-3 pound) head green cabbage – Choose a fresh head for the perfect rolls and leaves.
How to Make Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (204°C). At the same time, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is where the cabbage will get a quick bath before its big role.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, parboiled rice, minced onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, thyme, and sage. Use your hands to mix everything together thoroughly until well combined. Get in there; it’s more fun that way!
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Whisk together the tomato sauce and chicken broth in a medium bowl until they blend smoothly. Set aside this luscious mixture as it will smother your cabbage rolls in flavor.
Step 4: Blanch the Cabbage
Now, take your cabbage head and carefully remove any wilted or damaged outer leaves. Submerge the good leaves in boiling water for about 3 minutes until soft and pliable. Remove the leaves with tongs and set them on a plate to cool.
Step 5: Roll Those Cabbage Leaves
Trim the thick stem from the cabbage leaves to make rolling easier. Place each leaf flat and scoop about 3 tablespoons of the meat-rice mixture onto the center. Tuck in the sides and roll tightly from the stem end to seal in the goodness. For larger rolls, double up and use two leaves for extra heft.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Drizzle a baking dish with olive oil to keep things nice and slippery. Lay your cabbage rolls seam-side down, snug as a bug in a rug. Pour the reserved tomato sauce over the top, making sure to cover them completely. Cover with aluminum foil to trap all that delicious steam.
Now, pop them in the oven for about 1 hour. After that merry hour of baking, carefully vent the foil to release steam, then let them bake for another 20-30 minutes until cooked through, and that delicious meat reaches a cozy 160°F (71°C).
Once baked to perfection, allow them to cool slightly. Serve your beautiful cabbage rolls garnished with freshly chopped parsley, and watch everyone be amazed!
These Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe not only deliver on flavor but also embody that wonderful spirit of home-cooked goodness. They’re like a love letter to comfort food, bringing warmth and joy to your dinner table. Enjoy!
You Must Know About Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe
- This showstopping Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe Cooking Process
Start by preparing your filling so it’s ready to go. While blanching the cabbage leaves, mix your meat and rice combination. This ensures that everything is organized and cooking efficiently, saving you time and effort.
Add Your Touch to Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe
Feel free to swap out the meats with turkey or chicken for a lighter version. Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as adding paprika for smokiness or fresh dill for a burst of flavor.
Storing & Reheating Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe
To store, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container, keeping them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven, covered, to maintain moisture and flavor.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe
- This professional-quality Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
The first time I made these Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice, my family couldn’t stop raving! Now, it’s one of our go-to comfort meals that brings everyone together around the dinner table.
FAQs About Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe
What is Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe?
The Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe is a delightful dish that combines savory ground meats, parboiled rice, and herbs, all carefully wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and baked to perfection. This recipe not only showcases simple ingredients but also provides a comforting, satisfying meal that appeals to families and dinner guests alike. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
How long does it take to prepare and cook Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe?
The total time to prepare and cook the Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes. This includes about 30 minutes of prep time and 1 hour and 45 minutes of cooking time. This recipe allows you to create flavorful cabbage rolls that are worth the wait, ensuring that each bite is moist and delicious.
Can I make substitutions in Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe?
Absolutely! The Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe is quite versatile. You can easily swap out the ground beef and pork for ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based substitutes for a lighter or vegetarian version. Additionally, feel free to experiment with spices or additional fillings to customize the flavors to your liking.
How should I store leftovers from Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe?
To store leftovers from the Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or transfer them to an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the rolls in the oven covered with foil to maintain moisture and warmth. Enjoy them again as a delightful meal!
Conclusion for Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe
In conclusion, the Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe is a comforting dish that beautifully blends flavors and textures, making it a hit for any gathering. With simple ingredients and versatile options for customization, this recipe ensures that everyone can enjoy a delicious homecooked meal. Prepare to impress your friends and family with this showstopper of a recipe!
Easy Baked Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Rice Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and bring a large pot of salted water to a boil to blanch the cabbage leaves.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, parboiled rice, minced onion, garlic, salt, black pepper, dried thyme, and dried sage. Mix thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the tomato sauce and chicken broth until well blended. Set this sauce mixture aside for later.
- Remove any wilted or loose outer leaves from the cabbage. Carefully separate as many outer leaves as possible without tearing them. Submerge these leaves in the boiling water for about 3 minutes until tender, then remove with tongs and drain on a plate or cutting board.
- Place the whole cabbage head into the boiling water and cook for 3-4 minutes. Remove and gently peel off the softened outer leaves using tongs. Repeat this boiling and peeling process until the remaining leaves become too small or crinkled to use.
- Once the cabbage leaves are cool enough to handle, use a sharp knife to trim out the thick center stem sections with a V-shaped cut to make rolling easier.
- Lay each cabbage leaf flat. For leaves with trimmed stems, slightly overlap the cut parts to seal. Spoon about 3 tablespoons of the meat and rice mixture onto each leaf. Fold in the sides and roll tightly, sealing the edge over the filling. Use two leaves for larger rolls as needed.
- Drizzle olive oil into a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole pan. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the pan, packing them snugly.
- Pour the tomato sauce and chicken broth mixture evenly over the cabbage rolls, covering them. Tightly cover the pan with aluminum foil to trap steam and prevent drying during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour. Then, carefully vent the foil to release steam and continue baking for an additional 20-30 minutes until the meat is fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired.
