If you’ve ever craved a meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside, then this Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Combining tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory, perfectly seasoned beef and rice filling, all smothered in a rich tomato sauce, it’s comfort food at its absolute best. This dish brings together simple, wholesome ingredients in a way that satisfies both your appetite and your soul, making it a timeless classic you’ll want to share with everyone you know.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s amazing about this Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe is how it uses straightforward ingredients to create such a complex and comforting flavor. Each component plays a crucial role, from the tender cabbage that holds everything together to the aromatic herbs that elevate the tomato sauce.
- 1 large head of green cabbage: Provides the sturdy yet tender leaves perfect for rolling.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty protein base, rich and flavorful.
- 1 cup cooked white rice: Adds texture and stretches the filling for a more satisfying bite.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Infuses sweetness and depth to the filling.
- 1 garlic clove, minced: Brings a fragrant warmth to the mix.
- 2 oz tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that binds and enriches the filling.
- 1 egg, lightly beaten: Helps hold the filling together for neat rolls.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and color.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Provides a gentle kick and complexity.
- 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes: Forms the comforting tomato sauce base.
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth: Adds depth and moisture to the sauce.
- 1 tbsp sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Lends a fragrant Mediterranean touch.
- 1 tsp dried thyme: Adds earthy notes to the sauce.
- ½ tsp salt (for sauce): Enhances the overall savoriness.
- ½ tsp black pepper (for sauce): Rounds out the seasoning perfectly.
How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. While you wait, core your cabbage and gently separate the leaves—take your time to avoid tearing them, as these leaves will be your edible wrapping. Blanch the leaves in the boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes until they’re pliable but still hold their shape. Then drain and let them cool so they’re easier to handle during rolling.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, beaten egg, paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything thoroughly—this is the heart of your Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe, so make sure the flavors are evenly distributed for every bite.
Step 3: Roll the Cabbage
Now is the fun part! Spoon 2 to 3 tablespoons of your filling onto the base of each cabbage leaf. Carefully tuck in the sides and roll up tightly so the filling doesn’t escape during cooking. Repeat this for all the leaves and filling, creating neat little parcels.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
Combine the crushed tomatoes, broth, sugar, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper in a saucepan. Let this simmer over medium heat for about 5 minutes until it melds into a fragrant, flavorful sauce that will make your rolls sing.
Step 5: Cook the Rolls
Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a large pot or Dutch oven. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a single layer—it’s important to keep them snug so they don’t unravel. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls, making sure each one is beautifully covered. Cover the pot and let everything simmer on low heat for 45 minutes to an hour until the rolls are tender and the flavors have fully merged.
How to Serve Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill adds a lovely burst of green and fresh aroma that balances the richness of the dish. A dollop of sour cream on the side can also bring a cooling creaminess that pairs beautifully with the tangy tomato sauce.
Side Dishes
This hearty meal shines with classic sides like buttery mashed potatoes or a crusty loaf of bread to sop up every last bit of that luscious sauce. For a lighter option, consider a crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette, which adds a fresh, bright contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, stack the rolls neatly on a serving platter garnished with fresh herbs and serve with small bowls of extra sauce for dipping. Alternatively, place each roll on individual plates with a drizzle of sauce artistically spooned around for a restaurant-style presentation that is sure to impress.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover stuffed cabbage rolls keep exceptionally well in the fridge. Simply transfer them to an airtight container and enjoy within 3 to 4 days. The flavors actually improve after resting a day, making them perfect for prepping in advance.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the cabbage rolls individually wrapped or packed in a freezer-safe container with some sauce. They will maintain great flavor and texture for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat the rolls gently on the stovetop over low heat with a bit of extra broth or water to keep them moist. Alternatively, cover and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Steaming them works wonderfully too, preserving their tender texture.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat in the Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground pork, chicken, or turkey all work well and create different flavor profiles. Mixing beef and pork is also a popular choice for added richness. Just keep the same cooking times for tender results.
Is it possible to make these cabbage rolls vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the meat with cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a blend of sautéed vegetables and grains. Be mindful to adjust seasoning accordingly, and consider adding a bit more egg or a binding agent to hold the filling together.
How do I prevent the cabbage rolls from unrolling during cooking?
Rolling tightly and tucking the sides in firmly is key. Placing the rolls seam-side down in the cooking pot helps keep them intact. If you’re worried, you can secure them with toothpicks before cooking.
Can I make this Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolls and sauce up to a day before cooking. Store them covered in the fridge and simply simmer them when ready to serve. This makes entertaining a breeze!
What can I serve with stuffed cabbage rolls to complete the meal?
Traditional sides like mashed potatoes or crusty bread are perfect for soaking up sauce. You can also add steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the hearty flavors and provide some lighter elements.
Final Thoughts
This Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe has a way of turning a simple collection of ingredients into a dish that feels incredibly special and comforting all at once. It’s just perfect for cozy dinners when you want something warm, satisfying, and made with love. Don’t hesitate—roll up your sleeves and give this classic a try. You might just find a new favorite to share with family and friends for years to come.
Print
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Eastern European
Description
Delicious and comforting stuffed cabbage rolls filled with seasoned ground beef and rice, simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with aromatic herbs. This hearty dish is perfect for a warming family meal and combines tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful meat mixture, slow-cooked to perfection.
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 1 large head of green cabbage
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 oz tomato paste
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare Cabbage Leaves: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Core the cabbage and carefully separate the leaves. Blanch the leaves in the boiling water for 2–3 minutes until softened. Drain and let cool for easier handling.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, lightly beaten egg, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Stuff and Roll: Place 2–3 tablespoons of the meat filling onto the base of each cabbage leaf. Roll the leaf tightly around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go to form neat rolls. Repeat until all filling and leaves are used.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan, combine canned crushed tomatoes, beef or vegetable broth, sugar, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to meld the flavors.
- Assemble and Cook: Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce in the bottom of a large pot or Dutch oven. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a single layer. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls, fully covering them.
- Simmer: Cover the pot and cook on low heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have combined beautifully.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the stuffed cabbage rolls warm, accompanied by crusty bread or creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal. Enjoy!
Notes
- Blanching the cabbage leaves softens them, making them easier to roll and preventing tearing.
- Use cooked rice to keep the filling moist and help bind the mixture.
- The egg acts as a binder to keep the filling intact while cooking.
- Simmer the rolls gently to allow flavors to develop without overcooking the cabbage.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or minced mushrooms.
- The sauce can be made a day ahead to enhance the flavors even more.
