Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

A Comforting Classic

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a hearty, flavorful dish that brings comfort food to a whole new level. With a delicious combination of tender cabbage leaves filled with seasoned ground beef and rice, all smothered in a rich tomato sauce, this dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner, a meal prep option, or a dish for a special occasion, these stuffed cabbage rolls are the perfect choice.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect for meal prep – Make them ahead and enjoy throughout the week.
  • Budget-friendly – Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
  • Great for family dinners – A dish everyone will love.
  • Customizable – Can be made with different meats and seasonings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 medium onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
  • 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes (do not drain)
  • 15-ounce can tomato sauce
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs

For the Cabbage Rolls:

  • 1 pound extra lean ground beef
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs blend
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 egg
  • 1 head of cabbage

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Sauce

  1. In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil.
  2. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-5 minutes until translucent.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian herbs, salt, pepper, brown sugar, red wine vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
  5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray and ladle half the sauce into the bottom of the dish.

2. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
  2. Immerse the cabbage head into the boiling water for 4-5 minutes until leaves are pliable.
  3. Remove from water and carefully peel off 12 large leaves.
  4. Once cooled, cut a v-shaped notch at the base of each leaf to remove the thick rib.

3. Make the Filling

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, rice, onion powder, minced garlic, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian herbs, 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, and the egg.
  2. Stir in 1/2 cup of the prepared tomato sauce to the mixture.

4. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

  1. Take 1/3 cup of the meat mixture and shape it into a log.
  2. Place it in the center of a cabbage leaf and roll tightly.
  3. Place the roll seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
  4. Repeat with remaining filling and cabbage leaves.

5. Bake the Cabbage Rolls

  1. Pour the remaining sauce over the cabbage rolls.
  2. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F for 70-90 minutes until the cabbage is fork-tender and the meat is cooked through.
  3. Sprinkle with remaining parsley and serve hot with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Tips & Variations

  • Meat Options: Swap ground beef for ground turkey, pork, or a combination for different flavors.
  • Vegetarian Option: Use lentils or mushrooms instead of meat.
  • Rice Alternatives: Try quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
  • Slow Cooker Method: Cook on low for 6-8 hours instead of baking.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezer: Freeze cabbage rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Warm in the microwave or bake at 350°F until heated through.

What to Serve with Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

  • Side Dishes: Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or buttered noodles.
  • Drinks: A glass of red wine, iced tea, or a light lager pairs beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the cabbage rolls, cover them with sauce, and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready.

How do I keep the cabbage leaves from tearing?

Boiling the cabbage for a few minutes makes the leaves pliable and easy to roll.

Can I use uncooked rice?

It’s best to use cooked rice to ensure even cooking inside the rolls.

Do I need to cover them while baking?

Yes, covering with foil helps retain moisture and ensures even cooking.

Try This Classic Recipe Today!

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight meal or a family gathering, they’re sure to be a hit! If you enjoyed this recipe, share it with your friends and family, and don’t forget to subscribe for more delicious recipes!

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