Hamburger Meat And Rice Stuffed Cabbage

Name: Hamburger Meat And Rice Stuffed Cabbage
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 30 min
Total time: 2 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large head of green cabbage; 1 lb ground hamburger meat; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 1/4 cup beef broth; 1/2 cup tomato sauce for topping

Highlighted under: Traditional Collection

I love making Hamburger Meat and Rice Stuffed Cabbage on chilly evenings. It’s a comforting dish that combines tender cabbage leaves with a savory filling of juicy hamburger meat and fluffy rice. The rich flavors meld beautifully as they cook, creating a satisfying meal that’s perfect for the whole family. Every bite is packed with flavor, and I enjoy serving it with a drizzle of tangy tomato sauce. Preparing stuffed cabbage may seem daunting, but with my easy method, you'll find it fun and rewarding!

Created by

Lottie Pennington

Last updated on 2026-03-29T07:27:55.050Z

When I first tried making Hamburger Meat and Rice Stuffed Cabbage, I was pleasantly surprised at how much flavor could come from such simple ingredients. Each leaf of cabbage wraps around a hearty filling that brings me back to my childhood. The combination of spices I use really enhances the flavor, so don't skip out on them!

I also found that simmering the stuffed cabbage in a flavorful broth really elevates the dish. The time spent braising allows the flavors to meld perfectly, and I always recommend leaving it on low heat for longer if possible. Serve it with a side of sour cream, and you'll feel like you’re dining out!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Hearty and flavorful filling that warms you from the inside out
Versatile dish that can be adjusted to suit any taste preferences
Perfect for meal prepping and leftovers!

The Role of Cabbage

Cabbage serves as the foundation of this dish, providing a tender yet hearty exterior to the flavorful filling inside. When blanched, the leaves become pliable, making them easy to work with. Aim for a large, fresh head of green cabbage, as it offers the best leaves for wrapping. If you find that some leaves are too tough or don't peel off easily, you can return the cabbage to boiling water for an additional minute to soften them further.

Using cabbage not only contributes to the flavor and texture but also enhances the nutritional profile of the meal. Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, and it provides dietary fiber. This means that each bite of stuffed cabbage not only satisfies your hunger but also supports overall health. If you're feeling adventurous, try using savoy cabbage for a slightly sweeter flavor and more delicate texture.

Filling Variations

The filling for your stuffed cabbage can be customized to suit your taste or dietary requirements. While beef is the traditional choice, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just be sure to adjust seasoning to complement the different flavors. If you’re looking to add more vegetables, consider incorporating finely chopped mushrooms or shredded carrots into the filling.

You can also experiment with spices and herbs to give a unique twist to your filling. For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper. Fresh herbs like dill or thyme can add fragrant notes to the dish. Don't hesitate to taste the filling before stuffing it into the cabbage leaves, so you can adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you make more stuffed cabbage than your family can eat in one sitting, you'll be glad to know it stores well. After allowing the dish to cool, transfer the rolls to an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed throughout. This method helps maintain the cabbage's integrity compared to microwaving, which can make the leaves soggy.

For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked stuffed cabbage rolls. Simply arrange them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake them directly from frozen, adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the cooking time. This allows for a quick, home-cooked meal even on the busiest of days.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious stuffed cabbages:

Ingredients

1 large head of green cabbage
1 lb ground hamburger meat
1 cup cooked rice
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup beef broth
1/2 cup tomato sauce for topping

These ingredients will come together to create a rich and filling dish you'll want to make again!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a successful cooking experience:

Prepare the Cabbage

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head in the boiling water. Blanch for about 3 minutes until the leaves are pliable. Remove and cool.

Make the Filling

In a skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. In a bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, sautéed onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, pepper, oregano, and parsley. Mix well.

Stuff the Cabbage

Take a softened cabbage leaf and place a generous spoonful of the filling at the base. Fold in the sides and roll up to create a secure package. Repeat until all leaves are filled.

Cook the Cabbage

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the stuffed cabbage rolls in a baking dish. Pour beef broth and tomato sauce over the rolls. Cover with foil and bake for approximately 60 minutes.

Serve

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Top each roll with additional tomato sauce if desired and serve warm.

Enjoy your Hamburger Meat and Rice Stuffed Cabbage fresh out of the oven!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing different herbs or adding grated cheese to the filling.

Perfecting the Cooking Process

When baking your stuffed cabbage, it’s important to ensure even cooking and prevent dryness. Covering the baking dish with foil traps steam, which helps the rolls cook through without burning. After about 45 minutes, you can remove the foil to allow the tops to brown slightly, adding a bit of texture to the dish. Keep an eye on them; you want the cabbage to be tender but not mushy.

If you notice that some rolls are browning faster than others, you can rotate the baking dish halfway through the cooking time. This ensures that every roll gets the same amount of heat for consistent results. Using an instant-read thermometer, you can check the internal temperature of the filling; it should reach a safe 160°F (70°C) for ground meat.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your stuffed cabbage, consider serving it with a side of sour cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast. Freshly chopped chives or green onions can add a nice touch of color and flavor on top. You might also enjoy it with a side salad of mixed greens dressed lightly with vinaigrette, which can cut through the richness and balance the meal nicely.

For a heartier meal, serve the stuffed cabbage alongside mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up any remaining juices. A crisp, white wine or a light, fruity red can complement the savory flavors beautifully, making for a cozy dining experience. Don’t forget to drizzle some extra tomato sauce over the rolls for added flavor and moisture!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cabbage rolls in advance and freeze them before cooking.

→ What can I serve with stuffed cabbage?

Stuffed cabbage goes well with sour cream, bread, or a simple salad.

→ Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for hamburger meat for a lighter option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.