Cabbage and Beef Bundles
Cabbage and Beef Bundles are tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory mixture of ground beef, herbs, and spices. This comforting, wholesome dish is easy to prepare and perfect for quick family dinners or meal prepping. The bundles are flavorful, protein-packed, and can be cooked by baking or simmering with optional tomato sauce or broth to keep them moist.
- Author: Lina
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes (baking) or 45 minutes (simmering)
- Total Time: 55-65 minutes
- Yield: 8-10 bundles (4 servings) 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American / European
- Diet: Gluten Free
Wrap
- Fresh large cabbage leaves, about 8-10 leaves
Beef Filling
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (lean or regular)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup cooked rice or breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking Liquid (optional)
- 1 cup tomato sauce or beef broth (for simmering or baking)
- Prepare the cabbage leaves: Blanch the cabbage leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until soft and pliable. Drain carefully and set aside to cool so they can be rolled easily without tearing.
- Make the beef filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, cooked rice or breadcrumbs, and egg. Season generously with salt and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble the bundles: Lay each softened cabbage leaf flat and place a spoonful of the beef mixture in the center. Fold the sides over and roll tightly from the base, tucking in the ends to seal the filling inside the leaf.
- Cook the bundles: Arrange the bundles seam side down in a baking dish or large skillet. Pour tomato sauce or broth over them if desired for moisture. Cover loosely and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30-40 minutes or simmer on low heat, covered, for about 45 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and cabbage is tender.
- Serve and enjoy: Let the bundles rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite stays juicy and flavorful.
Notes
- Choose large, sturdy cabbage leaves from the outer sections to make wrapping easier.
- Do not overfill the bundles to prevent them from breaking or leaking during cooking.
- Precook onions or vegetables lightly before mixing to enhance flavor and reduce excess moisture.
- Simmer gently in broth or sauce to keep cabbage tender without drying out the bundles.
- Allow cooked bundles to rest covered for 5 minutes off heat to set their shape and improve texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 bundles (approx. 1 cup filling and leaves)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
Keywords: cabbage bundles, beef bundles, stuffed cabbage, one-pan dinner, family meal, comforting recipe, ground beef recipe, healthy dinner