Name: Cabbage Rolls with Extra Cheese
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients: Large Green Cabbage; Ground Beef; Cooked Rice; Onion; Tasty Tomato Sauce; Shredded Cheese; Spices

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Cabbage Rolls with Extra Cheese is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy family dinners! This heartwarming dish features tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful filling of seasoned meat and rice, all topped with gooey melted cheese for that extra indulgence. It’s a hearty meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients for Cabbage Rolls with Extra Cheese
How to Make Cabbage Rolls with Extra Cheese
Tips for Making Cabbage Rolls with Extra Cheese
Make-Ahead Instructions
Storing Leftovers
Freezing
Reheating
Serving Suggestions
FAQs
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Creamy Chicken Enchiladas
Cheesy Spinach Lasagna

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting and Heartwarming: This recipe brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy dinners, making it perfect for any occasion.
Extra Cheese Delight: The addition of melted cheese on top takes the classic cabbage rolls to a whole new level of deliciousness!
Meal Prep Friendly: Ideal for meal prep, these rolls can be assembled ahead of time and baked when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients for Cabbage Rolls with Extra Cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Large Green Cabbage: Provides the leaves for wrapping the filling; ensures a tender and flavorful bite.
Ground Beef: The primary protein source; can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
Cooked Rice: Acts as a filler; use any type of rice you prefer.
Onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the filling.
Tasty Tomato Sauce: Forms the base of the casserole, enhancing the flavor and moisture.
Shredded Cheese: Use mozzarella, cheddar, or a cheese blend for the topping, ensuring an ooey-gooey finish.
Spices: Salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to season the filling perfectly.

How to Make Cabbage Rolls with Extra Cheese

Start by boiling a large pot of water. Carefully remove the cabbage core and place the whole cabbage in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until the leaves soften.
Once the leaves are softened, gently peel them off and lay them aside to cool. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, diced onions, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.
Take one cabbage leaf, place about 2 tablespoons of the filling at the base, and roll tightly, tucking in the sides as you go to secure the filling inside. Repeat until all leaves are filled.
Spread a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the cabbage rolls seam side down in the dish. Top with remaining tomato sauce and shredded cheese.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Allow to cool slightly before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious cabbage rolls with extra cheese!

Tips for Making Cabbage Rolls with Extra Cheese

Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: Boil the cabbage just long enough to soften the leaves, as overcooking can make them mushy.
Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to add in some cooked vegetables or herbs to the filling for added flavor.
Use a Good Quality Cheese: Choose a melt-friendly cheese for the best layer of gooeyness on top!

Make-Ahead Instructions

Assemble the cabbage rolls completely and place them in the baking dish without baking. Cover with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Prepare the sauce in advance and store it separately until you’re ready to bake.

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Freezing Cabbage Rolls with Extra Cheese

To freeze, allow the cooked cabbage rolls to cool completely. Place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag and store them for up to 3 months.
When ready to eat, thaw the rolls overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as instructed.

Reheating Cabbage Rolls with Extra Cheese

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Alternatively, microwave individual rolls for about 1-2 minutes, covered, for a quick reheat.

Serving Suggestions

FAQs

Can I make these cabbage rolls vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the ground meat with a mix of beans, lentils, or veggie crumbles and add in your favorite vegetables.

How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done?

The cheese should be melted and bubbling, and the internal temperature of the meat should reach 165°F (74°C).

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, feel free to mix and match your cheeses according to your preference.

What is the best way to store leftover cabbage rolls?

Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within 4 days.

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes! Ground turkey, pork, or chicken can also work well in this recipe.