Stuffed cabbage rolls are a beloved dish in many cultures, known for their comforting and satisfying flavors. This version takes things up a notch with the addition of bacon, hard cheese, and a rich, creamy sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties, these cabbage rolls are sure to impress your guests with their hearty filling and indulgent taste. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 1 large cabbage head
- 1.5 kg ground meat (beef, pork, or a combination)
- 15 g salt
- 7 g black pepper
- 2 eggs
- 100 g hard cheese, grated
- 350 g bacon, finely chopped
- Tray diameter: 25 cm
For the Sauce:
- 100 g cream cheese
- 120 g sweet cooking cream
- 7 g fresh dill, finely chopped
- 5 g salt
- 70 g pickled cucumbers, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 20 g mustard
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
- Core the Cabbage: Carefully cut out the core of the cabbage head. This will help the leaves to separate more easily.
- Blanch the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Submerge the cabbage head in the boiling water and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes. As the outer leaves soften, gently peel them off and set them aside. Continue until you have enough leaves to make the rolls. Allow the leaves to cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Mix the Meat Filling: In a large bowl, combine the minced meat, salt, black pepper, eggs, grated hard cheese, and finely chopped bacon.
- Shape the Rolls: Place a large spoonful of the meat mixture onto the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it up from the bottom to the top, tucking in the sides as you go to form a neat roll.
Step 3: Assemble and Cook
- Arrange the Rolls: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease the bottom of a 25 cm diameter baking tray. Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the tray, packing them closely together.
- Bake: Cover the tray with aluminum foil and bake the cabbage rolls in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
- Make the Creamy Sauce: While the cabbage rolls are baking, prepare the sauce. In a medium saucepan, combine the cream cheese, sweet cooking cream, chopped dill, salt, chopped pickled cucumbers, minced garlic, and mustard. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce is smooth and heated through. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
- Add the Sauce: After 45 minutes, remove the cabbage rolls from the oven. Pour the creamy sauce evenly over the rolls.
- Bake Again: Return the tray to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the tops of the rolls are slightly golden.
- Serve: Let the rolls cool slightly before serving. Garnish with extra dill if desired, and enjoy this hearty, indulgent dish!
Conclusion
These Indulgent Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are more than just a meal—they’re a true celebration of comfort food. With a rich and flavorful filling, smoky bacon, and a creamy sauce that ties everything together, this dish is sure to become a favorite at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking for a satisfying family meal, these cabbage rolls will deliver both taste and satisfaction. Serve them hot and watch your guests delight in every bite!