Baked Cabbage Rolls with Cheese

why make this recipe

Cheesy Baked Cabbage Rolls are a delicious and comforting dish that brings together the goodness of fresh cabbage, savory meat, and gooey cheese. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or when you want to enjoy hearty comfort food without too much fuss. It’s a great way to sneak some veggies into your meal, making it healthy while still being satisfying and flavorful.

how to make Cheesy Baked Cabbage Rolls

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cabbage
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
• 1 pound ground meat (beef, turkey, or chicken)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully remove cabbage leaves and blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender.
3. In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
4. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, ground meat, sautéed onion and garlic, cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Place a portion of the filling in each cabbage leaf, roll up, and tuck in sides.
6. Place rolls seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Pour tomato sauce over the rolls and cover with foil.
8. Bake for 30-40 minutes until the meat is cooked through.
9. Remove foil for the last 10 minutes for a cheesy top.
10. Serve warm.

how to serve Cheesy Baked Cabbage Rolls

Cheesy Baked Cabbage Rolls can be served as a main dish. Pair them with a fresh green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. You can also top them with extra cheese or fresh herbs for added flavor.

how to store Cheesy Baked Cabbage Rolls

To store leftover Cheesy Baked Cabbage Rolls, let them cool completely and then place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label the container with the date.

tips to make Cheesy Baked Cabbage Rolls

• Select a cabbage that has large, firm leaves for easier rolling.
• For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes to the meat mixture.
• Feel free to mix different types of cheese for extra flavor.
• Make a double batch and freeze some for later meals!

variation

You can customize the filling by adding cooked vegetables like carrots or bell peppers. For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground meat with mushrooms or lentils, and use plant-based cheese.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cabbage?
Yes, you can use frozen cabbage. Just make sure to thaw it completely and drain any excess water before using.

2. What can I serve with cabbage rolls?
Cabbage rolls pair well with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, or a simple salad.

3. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, ensure that your rice is gluten-free and choose a gluten-free tomato sauce. Replace any bread crumbs with gluten-free alternatives if you choose to use them in the filling.

Cheesy Baked Cabbage Rolls

Cheesy Baked Cabbage Rolls are a delicious and comforting dish made with fresh cabbage, savory meat, and gooey cheese, ideal for family dinners and potlucks.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 55 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Comfort Food

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Cabbage and Filling

• 1 large head cabbage Choose one with large, firm leaves.
• 1 cup cooked rice Use any variety of rice.
• 1 cup shredded cheese Cheddar or mozzarella works well.
• 1 pound ground meat Can use beef, turkey, or chicken.
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can tomato sauce 15 oz can.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Adjust according to taste.
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil For drizzling.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Carefully remove cabbage leaves and blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until tender.
3. In a skillet, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until softened.
4. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, ground meat, sautéed onion and garlic, cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
5. Place a portion of the filling in each cabbage leaf, roll up, and tuck in sides.
6. Place rolls seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Pour tomato sauce over the rolls and cover with foil.

Cooking

1. Bake for 30-40 minutes until the meat is cooked through.
2. Remove foil for the last 10 minutes for a cheesy top.

Serving

1. Serve warm, optionally topped with extra cheese or fresh herbs.

Notes

You can store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. Double the recipe to save some for later!