Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a classic comfort dish enjoyed in many cuisines around the world, especially in Eastern European and Middle Eastern cooking. Tender cabbage leaves are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground meat, rice, herbs, and spices, then slowly simmered in a rich tomato sauce until perfectly tender.
This hearty meal is perfect for family dinners, holidays, or meal prep because the flavors deepen as the cabbage rolls cook. The combination of savory filling and tangy tomato sauce makes every bite comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Rolls
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1 large green cabbage
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1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
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½ cup uncooked rice
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 egg
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1 teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon dried thyme
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Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Tomato Sauce
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2 cups tomato sauce
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1 tablespoon tomato paste
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1 tablespoon brown sugar
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1 teaspoon vinegar or lemon juice
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½ teaspoon garlic powder
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Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
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Fresh parsley
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Sour cream
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cabbage
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head into the boiling water.
Boil for 2–3 minutes until the outer leaves soften. Remove leaves carefully and set aside to cool. Repeat until you have about 10–12 large leaves.
2. Make the Filling
In a large bowl combine:
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Ground beef
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Uncooked rice
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Chopped onion
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Garlic
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Egg
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Paprika
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Thyme
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Salt and pepper
Mix well until everything is evenly combined.
3. Fill the Cabbage Leaves
Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a surface. Place about 2 tablespoons of filling near the base of the leaf.
Fold the sides inward and roll the leaf tightly to form a small bundle. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
4. Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, mix tomato sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Spread a small amount of sauce on the bottom of a baking dish or pot.
5. Cook the Cabbage Rolls
Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls.
Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 60–75 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
Alternatively, simmer on the stovetop for about 45–60 minutes.
6. Serve
Let the cabbage rolls rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and a spoonful of sour cream if desired.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Use large cabbage leaves
They make rolling easier and hold more filling.
Don’t overfill
Too much filling can cause the rolls to open during cooking.
Cook slowly
Slow cooking allows flavors to blend and the cabbage to become tender.
Layer extra cabbage leaves
Place extra cabbage leaves on the bottom of the pot to prevent burning.
Variations
Vegetarian Cabbage Rolls
Replace meat with mushrooms, lentils, or beans.
Low-Carb Version
Substitute rice with cauliflower rice.
Spicy Cabbage Rolls
Add chili flakes or hot paprika for extra heat.
Sweet and Sour Sauce
Add raisins and extra brown sugar for a traditional sweet-sour flavor.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration:
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheating:
Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop with extra sauce to prevent drying.
Freezing:
Stuffed cabbage rolls freeze well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Classic comfort food enjoyed worldwide
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Rich, savory filling with tender cabbage
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Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
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Freezer-friendly dish
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Great for family dinners or gatherings
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a timeless dish that brings together tender cabbage, savory meat filling, and flavorful tomato sauce. This comforting meal has been loved for generations and remains a favorite because of its hearty taste and satisfying texture. Whether served for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, these cabbage rolls always deliver warmth and delicious flavor.