Old Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls | Classic Comfort Food

Nothing says hearty comfort food quite like Old Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls. This traditional dish, often passed down through generations, combines tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful filling of ground meat, rice, and seasonings, then baked in a rich tomato sauce.

Popular in Eastern European and Mediterranean cuisines, stuffed cabbage rolls are warm, comforting, and perfect for family dinners or holidays. While they take a little time to prepare, the results are absolutely worth it.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic & nostalgic – tastes just like grandma used to make.

• Hearty & filling – packed with protein, rice, and vegetables.

• Budget-friendly – made with simple, affordable ingredients.

• Perfect for meal prep – leftovers taste even better the next day.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

For the cabbage rolls:

• 1 large head of green cabbage

• 1 lb ground beef (or half beef, half pork)

• 1 cup cooked rice

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 egg, lightly beaten

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp paprika

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp sugar (to balance acidity)

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 tsp dried basil

• Salt & pepper, to taste

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage

1. Bring a large pot of water to boil.

2. Carefully remove core of cabbage. Place cabbage head in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then peel off softened outer leaves. Repeat until you have 12–14 whole leaves. Set aside.

2. Make the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley. Mix until well combined.

3. Assemble the Rolls

1. Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling in the center of each cabbage leaf.

2. Fold sides in, then roll up tightly, tucking edges under.

4. Cook the Sauce

1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.

2. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10 minutes.

5. Bake the Rolls

1. Spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish.

2. Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down.

3. Pour remaining sauce over rolls.

4. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 ½ hours, until cabbage is tender and filling is cooked through.

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Tips & Variations

• Meat variations: Try ground turkey, chicken, or lamb for a twist.

• Grain swap: Use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lighter option.

• Make ahead: Assemble rolls a day in advance and bake when ready.

• Slow cooker version: Place rolls in a crock pot, cover with sauce, and cook on low 6–7 hours.

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Final Thoughts

Old Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug. With tender cabbage, savory meat-and-rice filling, and tangy tomato sauce, it’s a timeless dish that brings people together around the table. Whether you’re cooking for a holiday, a family dinner, or simply craving comfort food, this recipe delivers classic flavor every time.