If you’re looking for a comforting meal that wraps up rich flavors inside tender leaves, then this Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Each bite of these lovingly rolled cabbage leaves reveals a hearty and savory blend of ground beef, rice, fragrant herbs, and just the right touch of spice, all simmered in a luscious tomato sauce. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just a cozy night in, this recipe brings warmth, tradition, and a little magic to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started on this Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe is a breeze when you have simple, fresh ingredients that each play a special part. From the leafy cabbage that holds everything together to the rich beef and fluffy rice filling, every component adds texture, flavor, and color you’ll love.
- 1 large head of cabbage: The edible vessel that softens just enough to wrap up your savory filling perfectly.
- 1 lb ground beef: Adds juicy richness and protein to every roll, making them satisfyingly hearty.
- 1 cup cooked rice: Helps bind the filling and lends a gentle, comforting bite to each roll.
- 1 onion, chopped: Brings a natural sweetness and depth of flavor to the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses every bite with a punch of fragrant, aromatic warmth.
- 1 can diced tomatoes: Offers fresh acidity and chunks for texture in the filling.
- 1 can tomato sauce: Creates the rich, simmering sauce that makes these rolls so tender and flavorful.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and a beautiful color to the filling.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Sprinkles in a hint of earthy, herbal brightness.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little playful heat to warm the palate.
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth: Keeps everything moist and infuses a savory undertone during baking.
How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Start by gently boiling the whole cabbage head for about five minutes until the outer leaves soften just enough to be pliable, but still sturdy. Carefully peel off these softened leaves and set them aside to cool. This simple step makes the cabbage leaves delicate, yet strong enough to hold the filling without tearing.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
Next, brown your ground beef in a large skillet, allowing it to develop a rich, caramelized flavor. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, which layers in wonderful savory notes. Stir in the cooked rice along with diced tomatoes, paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous. Season with salt and pepper, then mix everything thoroughly so every bite is perfectly seasoned and balanced.
Step 3: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls
Now comes the fun part! Take a cabbage leaf and place a generous spoonful of the meat and rice mixture into the center. Fold in the sides, then roll the leaf tightly to seal the filling inside. Place each roll seam-side down in a baking dish—this keeps them neatly packed and helps maintain their beautiful shape during baking.
Step 4: Bake the Rolls
Pour the tomato sauce and broth over the rolls, which will bubble up and infuse every leaf and filling pellet with moist, saucy goodness. Cover the dish with foil to trap the steam and bake at 350°F (175°C) for one full hour. This slow baking lets the flavors meld and the cabbage soften to tender perfection.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once baked, these cabbage rolls are ready to shine on your dinner table. They’re warm, flavorful, and practically bursting with homestyle goodness. Garnish with fresh parsley to add a pop of color and a subtle fresh note before serving.
How to Serve Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic companion for stuffed cabbage rolls, bringing a lively green contrast and a hint of herbal brightness. You can also sprinkle a dash of smoked paprika on top for an added visual and flavor kick, or drizzle a little sour cream for creamy tanginess that pairs beautifully with the tomato sauce.
Side Dishes
These rolls are a star on their own, but pairing them with mashed potatoes or buttery buttered noodles creates a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings. A light cucumber salad or pickled vegetables can add a refreshing crunch and balance to the warm, rich rolls.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or family gathering, arrange the cabbage rolls in a circular pattern on a large serving platter, garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for brightness. Alternatively, serve individual rolls in small casserole dishes for a rustic, personal touch that’s sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Stuffed cabbage rolls taste even better the next day as the flavors meld beautifully. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, keeping the rolls and sauce together to maintain their moisture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to make this Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe well in advance, they freeze wonderfully. Place the unbaked rolls in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as usual.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the rolls gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. You can also microwave individual servings covered loosely with a damp paper towel, heating until just hot to preserve the moisture and tenderness.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat for the filling?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork all work beautifully as alternatives to beef. Mix or match depending on your preference, and adjust seasoning accordingly for the best flavor.
Do I need to pre-cook the rice before adding it to the filling?
Yes, pre-cooked rice is essential because it ensures the rice is tender after baking. Using raw rice wouldn’t cook properly inside the cabbage rolls.
Is it necessary to boil the cabbage before rolling the filling?
Yes, boiling softens the cabbage leaves, making them flexible and less likely to tear when you roll the filling inside. It’s a quick step that really improves the texture of the final dish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Sure! Simply swap out the ground beef for cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based meat substitute, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for the sauce. You’ll still get hearty, satisfying rolls full of flavor.
How spicy are these cabbage rolls with the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth that complements the other flavors without overpowering them. If you prefer no heat at all, feel free to skip this ingredient without losing the overall deliciousness.
Final Thoughts
This Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe is one of those classic meals that feels like a warm hug at the end of a long day. It’s hearty, flavorful, and full of comforting textures that invite second and third servings. I can’t wait for you to try it out and make it your own cozy tradition. Trust me, once you’ve made these rolls, they’ll become a favorite you’ll come back to again and again!
Print
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Eastern European
Description
Delicious and comforting stuffed cabbage rolls filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and aromatic spices, baked in a rich tomato sauce. This classic dish is perfect for family dinners and offers a hearty, satisfying meal with tender cabbage leaves wrapped around flavorful filling.
Ingredients
Cabbage Rolls
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Tomato Sauce & Seasoning
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage: Boil the whole cabbage head in a large pot of water for about 5 minutes, until the outer leaves are softened and pliable. Carefully peel off the leaves one by one and set them aside, discarding the thick core.
- Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they soften and become fragrant. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, paprika, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to combine all flavors.
- Assemble the Cabbage Rolls: Place a spoonful of the beef and rice mixture onto the center of each cabbage leaf. Roll up the leaf tightly, folding in the sides to enclose the filling. Arrange the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish to prevent them from unrolling.
- Bake the Rolls: Pour the tomato sauce and beef or vegetable broth evenly over the cabbage rolls. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld and the cabbage to become tender.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve the stuffed cabbage rolls hot for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Notes
- Be sure to soften the cabbage leaves thoroughly in boiling water before rolling to prevent tearing.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or pork for variation.
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Leftover rolls can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread to complete the meal.
