A comforting dish featuring tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a savory meat and rice mixture, simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for hearty family dinners, these stuffed cabbage rolls are packed with flavor and warmth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic Comfort Food – A satisfying and hearty meal perfect for chilly nights.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – Great for meal prep and even better the next day.
- Budget-Friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
- Customizable – Easily swap the meat or seasonings to fit your taste.
- Nutritious & Filling – A wholesome dish packed with protein, fiber, and flavor.
Ingredients
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the 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 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Directions
Prepare the Cabbage:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Core the cabbage and gently separate the leaves.
- Blanch the leaves in the boiling water for 2–3 minutes until softened. Drain and let them cool.
Make the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, onion, garlic, tomato paste, egg, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until evenly combined.
Assemble the Rolls:
- Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling onto the base of each cabbage leaf.
- Roll up tightly, tucking in the sides as you go.
- Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a saucepan, combine the crushed tomatoes, broth, sugar, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Cook the Rolls:
- Spread a thin layer of 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, ensuring they are covered.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour until the rolls are tender and the flavors meld together.
Serve:
- Serve warm with crusty bread or mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 280 kcal per serving
Variations
- Turkey or Chicken: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with mushrooms and lentils for a plant-based alternative.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped chili to the sauce for extra heat.
- Different Grains: Use quinoa or brown rice instead of white rice for added nutrition.
- Slow Cooker Method: Place assembled cabbage rolls in a slow cooker, cover with sauce, and cook on low for 6-7 hours.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked or cooked cabbage rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a saucepan over low heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
FAQs
How do I keep cabbage leaves from tearing?
Blanching the cabbage leaves softens them, making them easier to roll without breaking.
Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, but green cabbage is more tender and traditional for this dish.
Do I have to cook the rice before stuffing the rolls?
Yes, using cooked rice ensures even cooking and a better texture.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Just ensure your broth and other ingredients are gluten-free.
What if my sauce is too thick?
Add extra broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
Can I prepare stuffed cabbage rolls in advance?
Absolutely! Assemble the rolls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.
What side dishes go well with stuffed cabbage rolls?
Mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple green salad complement them perfectly.
How do I prevent my rolls from falling apart?
Tuck in the sides tightly and place them seam-side down while cooking.
Can I bake stuffed cabbage rolls instead of simmering?
Yes, bake at 350°F (175°C) covered with sauce for about 1 hour.
How can I add more flavor to the filling?
Try adding fresh herbs, Worcestershire sauce, or a splash of soy sauce for extra depth.
Conclusion
Stuffed cabbage rolls are the perfect comfort food, bringing together tender cabbage leaves, a flavorful meat and rice filling, and a rich tomato sauce. Whether you’re making them for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a timeless favorite. Try different variations, and don’t forget to save leftovers—they taste even better the next day!
