These golden, lightly crispy cabbage rolls are filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, herbs, and rice, then pan-seared to perfection. They’re a fantastic low-carb dinner option, perfect for meal prep, and can easily be adapted for keto, gluten-free, or vegetarian diets.

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📝 Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 large green cabbage (12–16 leaves)

• 1 lb (450g) ground chicken, turkey, pork, or beef

• 1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice for keto)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos

• 1 tsp sesame oil (optional, for flavor depth)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

Optional Sauce (Highly Recommended):

• 2 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp honey or sugar substitute

• 1 tsp rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar

• 1 tsp sesame oil

• 1 tsp cornstarch (for thickening, optional)

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

2. Carefully peel off 12–16 whole cabbage leaves.

3. Blanch them in boiling water for 2–3 minutes until soft and pliable.

4. Remove and cool in cold water.

5. Trim the thick stem base so leaves roll easily.

Pro Tip: Don’t overboil — soft but sturdy leaves prevent tearing.

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Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large mixing bowl:

• Combine ground meat, cooked rice, garlic, onion, parsley, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper.

• Mix gently until well combined (avoid overmixing to keep it tender).

For a healthy high-protein meal prep version, use lean ground turkey or chicken.

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Step 3: Roll the Cabbage

1. Lay one cabbage leaf flat.

2. Add 2–3 tablespoons of filling near the base.

3. Fold sides inward and roll tightly like a burrito.

4. Repeat with remaining leaves.

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Step 4: Pan-Sear

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Place cabbage rolls seam-side down.

3. Cook 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown.

4. Cover and cook on low heat for 8–10 minutes to cook filling through.

Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for poultry.

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Step 5: Add Sauce (Optional)

Mix sauce ingredients in a bowl. Pour into pan and simmer 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened and glossy.

Sprinkle with sesame seeds or fresh herbs before serving.

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🍽 Serving Suggestions

• Serve with steamed jasmine rice

• Pair with cauliflower rice for a low-carb dinner

• Add a side of Asian cucumber salad

• Top with chili garlic sauce for extra flavor

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🥗 Nutrition Benefits

These cabbage rolls are:

• High in protein

• Budget-friendly meal prep option

• Low-carb friendly (when using cauliflower rice)

• Naturally gluten-free (use gluten-free soy sauce)

Cabbage is rich in:

• Vitamin C

• Fiber

• Antioxidants

• Gut-supporting compounds

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🌱 Variations

1. Keto Cabbage Rolls

Replace rice with cauliflower rice and use a sugar-free sauce.

2. Vegetarian Cabbage Rolls

Use:

• Mushrooms

• Lentils

• Quinoa

• Tofu crumble

3. Baked Version

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes instead of pan-searing.

4. Slow Cooker Version

Layer rolls in crockpot with sauce and cook on LOW for 4–5 hours.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

How do you keep cabbage rolls from falling apart?

Blanch leaves just until pliable and roll tightly. Cooking seam-side down first helps seal them.

Can you freeze stuffed cabbage rolls?

Yes. Freeze uncooked or cooked rolls in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

What is the best meat for cabbage rolls?

Ground beef offers rich flavor, turkey is lean and healthy, and pork gives juicy texture. A beef-pork mix is traditional in many European recipes.

Are cabbage rolls healthy?

Yes. They’re high in protein, low in carbs (if rice is reduced), and packed with fiber. Perfect for weight loss meal plans and diabetic-friendly diets (adjust sauce sugar).

How long do cabbage rolls last in the fridge?

Store in airtight container up to 4 days.

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🔥 Expert Cooking Tips

• Freeze whole cabbage overnight, then thaw — leaves soften naturally and peel easily.

• Use a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked filling.

• Add grated carrot or zucchini for extra moisture.

• Lightly brush rolls with oil before searing for crisp texture.

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💰 Why This Recipe is Trending

Search trends show high interest in:

• Healthy dinner recipes

• Low carb meal prep ideas

• High protein weight loss meals

• Budget-friendly family dinners

• Easy Asian-inspired recipes

• Gluten-free comfort food

Cabbage rolls are affordable, customizable, and perfect for batch cooking — making them a top choice for families and fitness-focused eaters alike.

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🥢 Final Thoughts

These pan-seared stuffed cabbage rolls are:
✔ Flavor-packed
✔ Healthy & customizable
✔ Perfect for meal prep
✔ Family-friendly
✔ Budget-conscious