If you are looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve got to try this Lazy Cabbage Rolls Recipe. It takes all the delicious elements of traditional cabbage rolls but skips the painstaking rolling, making it a perfect weeknight meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The combination of tender cabbage, savory ground pork and turkey, fluffy rice, and rich tomato sauce embodies cozy home cooking with a hassle-free twist you’ll adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet essential ingredients is the first step to bringing this Lazy Cabbage Rolls Recipe to life. Each component plays a role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color—from the hearty meats to the fresh herbs and the sweet bite of carrot. The ingredient list is straightforward, so let’s dive in and see what makes this dish so special.
- 4 cups cooked white rice: Provides a fluffy, starchy base that soaks up all the savory juices perfectly.
- 1/2 medium cabbage (7 cups sliced): Adds mild sweetness and a tender crunch that’s essential to the dish’s character.
- 1 pound ground pork: Brings rich, juicy flavor and keeps the texture moist and satisfying.
- 1 pound ground turkey: Adds a leaner protein to balance the pork and lighten the dish slightly.
- 1 large onion (divided): Using half grated and half diced unleashes layers of sweetness and gentle bite throughout.
- 2 large eggs: Bind all the ingredients together, ensuring the patties hold their shape beautifully.
- Original Mrs. Dash or salt-free all-purpose seasoning: Provides a flavorful punch without overwhelming saltiness.
- Salt and black pepper: Classic seasoning staples that elevate every bite.
- 2 Tbsp finely chopped parsley or dill: Fresh herbs give the dish a bright, aromatic lift.
- 1 Tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing to develop flavor and prevent sticking.
- 3 Tbsp unsalted butter: Adds richness and a luscious finish to the cooking process.
- 1 large carrot (julienned or grated): Introduces a hint of sweetness and a pop of color.
- 2 cups store-bought or homemade marinara sauce: The tangy tomato sauce ties everything together beautifully.
- 3 cups hot water: Used to gently cook the cabbage and meld flavors.
How to Make Lazy Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage and Rice
Begin by slicing half a medium cabbage into 1/4″ wide strips—you want tender yet slightly crisp cabbage that will hold up well. Cook your rice ahead (if you haven’t already) and let it cool to room temperature; this helps the mixture bind better without becoming mushy.
Step 2: Mix the Meats and Aromatics
In a large bowl, combine the ground pork and turkey with half the grated onion, two eggs, and your choice of Mrs. Dash, salt, and pepper for seasoning. Add the finely chopped parsley or dill for that fresh herby zing. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated but don’t overwork the meat to keep it tender.
Step 3: Combine with Rice and Cabbage
Gently fold in the cooked rice, the sliced cabbage, the finely diced onion, and grated or julienned carrot. The mixture may feel a bit loose at first—that’s okay! The eggs will help everything bind together when cooked.
Step 4: Form Patties and Brown
Shape the mixture into patties roughly the size of your palm (you should get 16 to 18). Heat olive oil and unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the patties on both sides until golden and slightly firm, about 4-5 minutes per side. This step locks in flavor and texture.
Step 5: Simmer in Marinara Sauce
Once browned, nestle the patties snugly in the skillet and pour over the marinara sauce and hot water. Cover and let simmer gently for about 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the cabbage to soften further. This final simmer brings everything together into a luscious, unified dish.
How to Serve Lazy Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or dill on top before serving for an inviting pop of green and fresh aroma. A dollop of sour cream on the side can add beautiful richness and a touch of creaminess that complements the tangy tomato sauce.
Side Dishes
Serve this dish alongside buttery mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a comforting meal. A crisp green salad or steamed green beans add a refreshing contrast that balances the richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these lazy rolls family-style straight from the skillet for a rustic vibe. Alternatively, lay them over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or thick slices of crusty bread to soak up the sauce, creating a hearty and visually appealing plate that invites seconds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover lazy cabbage rolls keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more after resting, so don’t be surprised if it tastes even better the next day!
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Place cooled patties in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months and make meal prep on busy days a breeze.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen patties overnight in the fridge if possible. Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or extra marinara to keep them moist, or microwave covered until heated through. Avoid overheating to maintain tenderness.
FAQs
Can I use only one type of meat instead of pork and turkey?
Absolutely! You can use all pork, turkey, beef, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute. Just be mindful that flavor and fat content may vary, so adjust seasonings and cooking times as needed.
Is it necessary to use both grated and diced onions?
Using grated onion helps distribute moisture and subtle sweetness more evenly, while diced onion provides little bursts of flavor and texture. The combination enhances the overall taste, but you can adapt with just one form if that’s easier.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your marinara sauce doesn’t contain gluten-containing additives. Always check labels or make your own marinara to be sure.
What is the best way to reheat without drying out the patties?
Reheat slowly over low heat with a bit of extra marinara or water, keeping the dish covered. This helps retain moisture and prevents the patties from becoming tough or dry.
Can I add other vegetables to the mix?
Definitely! Feel free to add finely chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to increase the veggie content and add new flavors. Just make sure to keep the mixture balanced so it doesn’t get too wet or loose.
Final Thoughts
This Lazy Cabbage Rolls Recipe is a true gem that combines delicious comfort food vibes with practical ease. Whether you’re cooking for family or looking to impress friends without the fuss, this dish is sure to become a favorite. I encourage you to give it a go—you might just find yourself making it again and again. Enjoy every hearty, flavorful bite!
Print
Lazy Cabbage Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 16 to 18 patties
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Lazy Cabbage Rolls are a delicious and simplified version of traditional cabbage rolls, featuring a hearty mixture of ground pork, ground turkey, cooked rice, and fresh cabbage strips. This easy-to-make recipe skips the traditional wrapping step, instead combining all ingredients into flavorful patties cooked on the stovetop and finished in a saucy simmer. Ideal for a comforting dinner, these patties are tender and flavorful, served with marinara sauce and a touch of herbs.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked white rice (from 1 1/2 cups uncooked rice, cooled to room temperature)
- 1/2 medium cabbage (sliced into 1/4″ wide strips, about 7 cups sliced)
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 1 large onion (divided: 1/2 grated and 1/2 finely diced)
- 2 large eggs
- Original Mrs. Dash or any salt-free all-purpose seasoning, to taste
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley or dill
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large carrot (julienned or grated)
- 2 cups store-bought marinara sauce or homemade marinara
- 3 cups hot water
Instructions
- Prepare the rice and cabbage: Cook the rice according to package instructions using 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice and allow it to cool to room temperature. While the rice cooks, slice half of a medium cabbage into 1/4-inch wide strips to yield about 7 cups. Julienne or grate one large carrot and set aside.
- Mix the meat and vegetable mixture: In a large bowl, combine 1 pound ground pork and 1 pound ground turkey with the cooled cooked rice. Add half of a large onion grated finely and the other half diced finely. Crack in two large eggs, then season with Original Mrs. Dash seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir in 2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley or dill for freshness.
- Add cabbage and form patties: Fold the sliced cabbage and grated carrot into the meat mixture until evenly distributed. Mix gently but thoroughly to combine. Form the mixture into 16-18 evenly sized patties, about 2 to 3 inches in diameter each.
- Sauté patties: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 3 tablespoons unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties in batches, cooking for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove patties from the skillet and set aside.
- Simmer in sauce: Pour 2 cups marinara sauce and 3 cups hot water into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping any brown bits from the pan for added flavor. Return the patties to the skillet, cover, and simmer gently for 15 minutes until the patties are tender and the flavors meld together.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the lazy cabbage rolls hot, spooning additional sauce over the top. Garnish with extra parsley or dill if desired.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground meats with a plant-based ground meat alternative and use a vegetable-based sauce.
- Use freshly grated carrot for the best texture; frozen carrots can add excess moisture.
- Adjust seasoning carefully since the sauce adds saltiness.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-4 days and reheat well on the stovetop or in the microwave.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
