Bring a taste of tradition and comfort to your table with these hearty and flavorful Stuffed Cabbage Rolls. A delicious mix of meat, rice, and seasonings are lovingly wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and simmered in a rich tomato sauce, making it a timeless dish that’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hearty and Nutritious: Packed with protein, vegetables, and grains.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or freezing for later.
Flavorful Classic: A rich tomato sauce enhances the savory filling.
Ingredients
For the Rolls
1 large head of green cabbage
1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
1/2 cup uncooked white rice
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
For the Tomato Sauce
2 cans (15 oz each) of tomato sauce
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Remove the core from the cabbage. Carefully peel off 12–14 large leaves, keeping them intact.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch the cabbage leaves for 2–3 minutes, until pliable. Remove and drain on a clean towel.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, uncooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Place about 1/4 cup of filling in the center of each cabbage leaf.
Fold the sides over the filling, then roll up tightly, starting from the stem end.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a large saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
Step 5: Cook the Rolls
Spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of a large baking dish or Dutch oven.
Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a single layer. Pour the remaining sauce over the top, ensuring the rolls are fully covered.
Cover tightly with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
Let the rolls rest for 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with additional sauce spooned over the top.
Tips for Recipe Success
Cabbage Size: Choose a medium to large head of cabbage for easier rolling.
Blanching Shortcut: If peeling leaves is tricky, blanch the entire head of cabbage and separate the leaves as they soften.
Filling Consistency: Don’t overpack the rolls; the rice will expand as it cooks.
Sauce Coverage: Ensure rolls are fully submerged in sauce to prevent drying out.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
A side of steamed vegetables or a simple salad complements this dish well.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan for an extra touch of flavor.
Why This Recipe Works
Balanced Texture: The tender cabbage leaves pair beautifully with the hearty meat and rice filling.
Rich Sauce: A robust tomato base infuses the rolls with deep flavor as they bake.
Family Tradition: This recipe carries the charm of homemade meals passed down through generations.
Variations
Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with a mix of lentils and mushrooms for a plant-based version.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling or sauce for heat.
Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the rolls during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze assembled, uncooked rolls in a freezer-safe dish. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.
Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individual portions.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 250
Protein: 18g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 10g
These Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are the ultimate comfort food, blending savory, hearty flavors with a touch of nostalgia. Whether you’re introducing this dish to your family for the first time or reliving a cherished memory, it’s sure to delight everyone at the table!