Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Hearty & Satisfying – A delicious blend of ground meat, rice, and seasonings wrapped in tender cabbage leaves.
Comfort Food at Its Best – Slow-cooked in a rich, tangy tomato sauce that enhances every bite.
Make-Ahead Friendly – Perfect for meal prep and easy to reheat for busy weeknights.
Customizable – Adjust the spices or add your favorite ingredients to make it uniquely yours.
Family Favorite – A timeless dish enjoyed across generations.
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Rolls:
1 large head of green cabbage (2–3 lbs)
1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
1/2 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 egg, beaten
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1/4 cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnishes:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Sour cream, for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Submerge the whole head of cabbage and cook for 2–3 minutes until the outer leaves soften.
Use tongs to remove softened leaves one at a time, setting them aside to cool.
Repeat until you have 12–14 usable leaves.
Trim the thick rib from the base of each leaf for easier rolling.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, onion, egg, garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Place 2–3 tablespoons of the filling onto each cabbage leaf.
Fold the sides over the filling, then roll tightly like a burrito.
Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Cook the Rolls
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spread a thin layer of sauce in a baking dish or Dutch oven.
Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down, packing them snugly.
Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls, ensuring they’re fully covered.
Cover with foil and bake for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
Remove foil for the last 15 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with sour cream if desired.
Enjoy warm with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
Why This Recipe Works
Perfectly Wrapped – The softened cabbage leaves hold the filling beautifully.
Deep, Rich Flavor – The slow-cooked sauce melds all the flavors together.
Tender & Juicy – Baking ensures the cabbage becomes soft and absorbs the savory goodness.
Variations to Try
Vegetarian Twist – Substitute meat with lentils, mushrooms, or crumbled tofu.
Spicy Version – Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
Gluten-Free – Naturally gluten-free; no adjustments needed!
Herb-Infused – Mix fresh dill, parsley, or cilantro into the filling for extra flavor.
Grain Swap – Use quinoa, bulgur, or barley instead of rice for variety.
Tips for Success
Alternative to Boiling – Freeze the cabbage overnight and thaw before use for naturally softened leaves.
Secure Rolls – Roll tightly to prevent the filling from spilling out during cooking.
Storage – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Serving Ideas
Elegant Plating – Serve individually with a drizzle of sauce and fresh herbs.
Brunch Delight – Pair with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
Family Feast – Complement with mashed potatoes, noodles, or roasted root vegetables.
Final Thoughts
Stuffed cabbage rolls take a bit of time, but the reward is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that warms the soul. Whether you're making them for a family dinner, a special gathering, or just craving a cozy homemade meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
Have you made stuffed cabbage rolls before? Share your favorite variations below! 🍂
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