How to Freeze Cabbage Rolls

Freezing softens cabbage, altering its crisp texture. This doesn't pose a problem in dishes that depend on cooked cabbage, such as cabbage rolls. The ingredients in most cabbage rolls -- rice, ground meat and tomato sauce -- all respond well to freezing. Preparing and cooking the rolls prior to freezing ensures the dish develops its full flavor and texture and retains it during freezing. Precooked cabbage rolls also take less time to reheat, since you only have to warm the food instead of baking it thoroughly.

Things You'll Need

• Pan
• Ice
• Plastic wrap

Instructions

1. Cook the cabbage rolls for 10 minutes less than directed in the recipe. Slight under-cooking prevents the rolls from burning when you reheat them.

2. Fill a pan with ice. Use a pan larger than the dish the cabbage rolls are in. Set the cabbage roll pans on top of the ice to help cool them more quickly. Replace the ice as it melts.

3. Cover the cabbage rolls with a sheet of plastic storage wrap. Wrap the plastic tightly around the pan so no air can penetrate.

4. Freeze the cabbage rolls immediately after cooling and wrapping. Store the rolls in the freezer for up to six months.

5. Thaw the cabbage rolls in the refrigerator for eight to 12 hours. Heat the rolls in a 325 degree Fahrenheit oven for 15 minutes or until the internal temperature of the food reaches a temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Tips & Warnings

• Bake the cabbage rolls in disposable aluminum pans. These pans freeze well and take up less freezer room than heavy casserole dishes.

References

• University of Georgia Extension; Freezing Prepared Foods; Elizabeth Andress, et al.; July 2002