Cabbage rolls are a hearty and comforting dish enjoyed by many around the world. Today, I am making Pioneer Woman Cabbage Rolls, a recipe that brings together tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a flavorful meat and rice mixture, all simmered in a savory tomato sauce.

What are Pioneer Woman Cabbage Rolls?

Pioneer Woman Cabbage Rolls are a classic comfort food recipe popularized by Ree Drummond, also known as the Pioneer Woman. This dish features cabbage leaves filled with a mixture of ground beef, rice, onions, and seasonings, then cooked in a rich tomato sauce until tender and flavorful.

Other Pioneer Woman Recipes

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Comforting and Hearty: Perfect for cozy dinners.
Nutritious: Packed with protein and vegetables.
Versatile: Great for family meals or gatherings.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Ideal for meal prepping.
Delicious: A satisfying blend of flavors and textures.

Ingredients Needed for Pioneer Woman Cabbage Rolls

1 large head of cabbage

1 lb ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 large onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon paprika
1 cup beef broth

Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman Cabbage Rolls

Prepare the cabbage: Core the cabbage and boil it until the leaves are soft and pliable.
Mix the filling: Combine ground beef, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
Stuff the cabbage leaves: Place a spoonful of the filling in each cabbage leaf and roll it up, tucking in the sides.

Arrange in a pot: Layer the rolls in a large pot.
Make the sauce: Mix tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, and beef broth.
Pour sauce over rolls: Cover the rolls with the sauce.

Simmer: Cook on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.

What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman Cabbage Rolls

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and smooth, a perfect complement.
Crusty Bread: Ideal for soaking up the rich tomato sauce.

Garden Salad: Fresh and crisp, balancing the heaviness of the rolls.
Steamed Vegetables: Light and healthy, adding extra nutrients.
Pickles: A tangy and crunchy side.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Cabbage Rolls

Choose Fresh Cabbage: Opt for a large, fresh head of cabbage.
Cook Rice Properly: Ensure the rice is fully cooked and cooled before mixing.
Season Well: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper in the filling.

Boil Cabbage Carefully: Avoid overcooking the cabbage leaves.
Secure the Rolls: Tuck in the sides of the leaves tightly.
Use Low Heat: Simmer on low to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

Variations of Pioneer Woman Cabbage Rolls

Vegetarian: Substitute ground beef with lentils or mushrooms.
Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the filling.
Cheesy: Mix shredded cheese into the filling for extra richness.

Turkey: Use ground turkey instead of beef for a leaner option.
Quinoa: Replace rice with cooked quinoa for a different texture.

Storing Pioneer Woman Cabbage Rolls: Best Practices

Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freeze: Place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Label: Always label with the date to keep track of freshness.
Separate Layers: Use parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Reheating Pioneer Woman Cabbage Rolls: Best Practices

Microwave: Heat individual rolls on high for 2-3 minutes.
Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, covered with foil.
Stovetop: Simmer in a pot with a bit of extra tomato sauce until heated through.

Steam: Use a steamer basket for gentle reheating.

FAQs

How do you prevent cabbage rolls from falling apart?

To prevent cabbage rolls from falling apart, make sure to blanch the cabbage leaves until they are pliable but not too soft. Additionally, roll the leaves tightly around the filling and tuck in the sides securely. Using a toothpick to hold the rolls together during cooking can also help maintain their shape.

What type of rice is best for cabbage rolls?

Long-grain white rice or basmati rice works best for cabbage rolls as it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors well. Ensure the rice is fully cooked and cooled before mixing it with the other filling ingredients to achieve the best texture.

Can you make cabbage rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can make cabbage rolls ahead of time. Prepare and assemble the rolls, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked rolls for up to 3 months and cook them directly from frozen, adding extra time to the cooking process.

What can I use instead of ground beef for cabbage rolls?

You can use ground turkey, chicken, pork, or a plant-based meat substitute as alternatives to ground beef. Lentils or mushrooms can also be used for a vegetarian version of cabbage rolls, providing a similar texture and rich flavor.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

Calories: 350

Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fat: 15g

Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 600mg

Final Words

Pioneer Woman Cabbage Rolls are a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. With this comprehensive guide, you’re now equipped to make these delicious rolls with confidence. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor the delightful flavors with your loved ones. Happy cooking!

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