This unique stuffed cabbage recipe was a hit in the 80s and 90s, known for its rich flavors and impressive presentation. It’s a delightful dish that brings back memories of family dinners and special occasions. Let’s revive this classic recipe and enjoy a taste of the past.
Shopping List
- Large cabbage
- Unsalted butter (250 grams)
- Ground beef (1.5 kg)
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Eggs (2)
- Mozzarella cheese (200 grams)
- Sliced bacon (500 grams)
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 large cabbage
- 200 grams unsalted butter (for melting)
- 1.5 kg ground beef
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 generous pinch of black pepper
- 50 grams unsalted butter (for meat mixture)
- 2 whole eggs
- 200 grams mozzarella cheese
- 500 grams sliced bacon
- Aluminum foil
Instructions
Preparing the Cabbage
1. Prepare the Cabbage:
- Cut off the bottom of the large cabbage and remove most of the core, creating a hollow center.
2. Melt Butter:
- In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt 200 grams of unsalted butter.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the prepared cabbage and set aside.
Preparing the Filling
3. Mix the Meat:
- In a large bowl, combine 1.5 kg ground beef, 1 tablespoon of salt, a generous pinch of black pepper, 50 grams of unsalted butter, and 2 whole eggs.
- Mix everything very well until combined.
4. Stuff the Cabbage:
- Fill the hollowed-out cabbage with some of the ground beef mixture, leaving a hole in the center.
- Place a 200-gram piece of mozzarella cheese in the center hole and continue adding more ground beef until the cabbage is filled.
- Top the entire cabbage with the remaining meat mixture.
5. Wrap with Bacon:
- Cover the stuffed cabbage with 500 grams of sliced bacon.
Baking
6. Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Wrap the cabbage in aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours. Keep an eye on it as baking time may vary depending on your oven’s power.
7. Serve:
- Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Slice and serve the stuffed cabbage hot.
Keto Version Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 large cabbage
- 200 grams unsalted butter (for melting)
- 1.5 kg ground beef
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 generous pinch of black pepper
- 50 grams unsalted butter (for meat mixture)
- 2 whole eggs
- 200 grams mozzarella cheese
- 500 grams sliced bacon
- Aluminum foil
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cabbage:
• Cut off the bottom of the large cabbage and remove most of the core, creating a hollow center.
2. Melt Butter:
• In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt 200 grams of unsalted butter.
• Drizzle the melted butter over the prepared cabbage and set aside.
3. Mix the Meat:
• In a large bowl, combine 1.5 kg ground beef, 1 tablespoon of salt, a generous pinch of black pepper, 50 grams of unsalted butter, and 2 whole eggs.
• Mix everything very well until combined.
4. Stuff the Cabbage:
• Fill the hollowed-out cabbage with some of the ground beef mixture, leaving a hole in the center.
• Place a 200-gram piece of mozzarella cheese in the center hole and continue adding more ground beef until the cabbage is filled.
• Top the entire cabbage with the remaining meat mixture.
5. Wrap with Bacon:
• Cover the stuffed cabbage with 500 grams of sliced bacon.
6. Bake:
• Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Wrap the cabbage in aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours. Keep an eye on it as baking time may vary depending on your oven’s power.
7. Serve:
• Once done, remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes.
• Slice and serve the stuffed cabbage hot.
Serving Suggestions
• Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad.
• Pair with a creamy garlic sauce for added richness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese?
A: Yes, cheddar or provolone can be great substitutes.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I prepare this in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare and stuff the cabbage ahead of time, then bake it when ready.
Variations to Try
• Cheesy Stuffed Cabbage: Add a mix of cheeses for a more flavorful filling.
• Spicy Version: Incorporate chopped jalapeños into the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage: Use a mix of rice, mushrooms, and vegetables as the filling.
This stuffed cabbage recipe was a staple at family gatherings in the 80s and 90s. My mother used to prepare it for special occasions, and the smell of melting butter and sizzling bacon would fill our home. The anticipation of cutting into the stuffed cabbage to reveal the melted mozzarella center was a highlight of our dinners. Sharing this recipe today brings back those cherished memories, making each bite a trip down memory lane.
Love classic recipes? Pin this stuffed cabbage with ground beef and mozzarella recipe for a nostalgic family dinner. Perfect for special occasions!
