Stuffed cabbage rolls are a timeless, comforting dish that brings together the satisfying flavors of tender cabbage leaves and a savory meat filling, all slow-cooked in a rich, tangy tomato sauce. Whether you’re preparing a family meal, looking for leftovers to enjoy throughout the week, or need a meal prep-friendly option, these cabbage rolls promise to deliver both warmth and flavor in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Classic Comfort Food: Stuffed cabbage rolls are the epitome of cozy, comforting meals. Their hearty filling and rich tomato sauce will provide a sense of home and satisfaction with every bite.
- Highly Customizable: This recipe is versatile—feel free to swap the ground beef for other proteins like ground pork, turkey, or even a plant-based substitute for a vegetarian option.
- Great for Leftovers: Cabbage rolls get even more flavorful after a day or two, making them ideal for meal prepping and enjoying as leftovers throughout the week.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of green cabbage
- 1 lb ground beef (or your preferred protein)
- 1/2 lb ground pork (optional, for added flavor)
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Core the cabbage, then carefully separate the leaves. Blanch the cabbage leaves in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes, or until they soften. Drain the leaves and set them aside to cool.
- Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, optional ground pork, cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, beaten egg, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble the Rolls: Place about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture in the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling and roll tightly, similar to a burrito, ensuring the filling is securely enclosed.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and sugar (if using). Stir well to combine.
- Cook the Cabbage Rolls: Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a large baking dish or slow cooker. Pour the tomato sauce mixture over the rolls, ensuring they are fully covered. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through. If using a slow cooker, cook on low for 6-8 hours for a more hands-off approach.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot, paired with mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.
Tips for Perfect Cabbage Rolls:
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overstuff the cabbage leaves, as this can cause them to tear or burst during cooking. Aim for a balanced amount of filling in each roll.
- Freezer-Friendly: These stuffed cabbage rolls freeze wonderfully. To freeze, assemble the rolls and freeze them before baking. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding 30-40 minutes to the baking time to ensure they’re fully heated through.
Final Thoughts:
Stuffed cabbage rolls are the perfect meal for a chilly night or when you want a dish that feels like a warm hug. The combination of savory filling and tangy tomato sauce is guaranteed to satisfy. Plus, with minimal effort upfront, you’ll have a hearty meal that offers plenty of leftovers for the days ahead.
Happy cooking! I