Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a hearty, traditional dish made with tender cabbage leaves filled with seasoned ground meat, rice, and herbs, then baked in a rich tomato sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

For the Rolls

• 1 large head of green cabbage

• 1 pound ground beef or ground beef and pork mix

• 1 cup cooked rice

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 egg, beaten

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp paprika

For the Sauce

• 2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp sugar

• 1 tsp dried basil or oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage

• Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

• Carefully remove the core of the cabbage.

• Place the whole head into boiling water for 3–5 minutes until leaves begin to soften and loosen.

• Remove softened leaves and set aside to cool.

2. Make the Filling

• In a large bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika.

• Mix well until evenly combined.

3. Assemble the Rolls

• Place a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface.

• Add 2–3 tablespoons of filling to the center.

• Fold the sides over the filling, then roll tightly from the bottom to the top.

• Repeat until all filling and cabbage leaves are used.

4. Make the Sauce

• Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat.

• Sauté onion and garlic for 2 minutes.

• Add tomato sauce, sugar, herbs, salt, and pepper.

• Simmer for 10 minutes to blend flavors.

5. Bake

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

• Spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.

• Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish.

• Pour remaining sauce over the top.

• Cover with foil and bake for 60–75 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.

Tips and Variations

• Meat Choices: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

• Extra Flavor: Add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.

• Make Ahead: Assemble the rolls a day before, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

• Freezer-Friendly: Freeze unbaked rolls for up to 2 months.

These Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a satisfying and flavorful dish that brings comfort to the table, perfect for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings.