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Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

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Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Cabbage Rolls in Tomato Sauce)

Description

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls in Tomato Sauce are a timeless comfort food made with tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful filling of seasoned ground beef, rice, onions, and herbs. The rolls are gently baked in a rich homemade tomato sauce until the cabbage becomes soft and the filling is perfectly cooked. Every bite is packed with hearty, savory flavors, making this dish a favorite for family dinners, holidays, or meal prep. The slow baking process allows the tomato sauce to soak into the cabbage rolls, creating a tender, juicy texture and deep, comforting flavor. Although they look impressive, cabbage rolls are surprisingly easy to prepare with a few simple ingredients. They also reheat beautifully, making leftovers just as delicious the next day. Serve these classic cabbage rolls with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad for a satisfying meal everyone will love.

Ingredients For the Cabbage Rolls

  • 1 large green cabbage
  • 1½ lbs lean ground beef
  • 1 cup cooked white rice
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper

For the Tomato Sauce

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Sour cream (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole cabbage into the boiling water.

Step 2: Soften the Leaves

Cook for 5–8 minutes, removing the softened outer leaves as they loosen. Continue until you have about 12 large cabbage leaves.

Step 3: Cool the Leaves

Transfer the cabbage leaves to a plate and let them cool. Trim the thick center rib slightly if needed to make rolling easier.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, diced onion, garlic, egg, parsley, paprika, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.

Step 5: Make the Tomato Sauce

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for about 4 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in the tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, Italian seasoning, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and sugar. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 6: Fill the Leaves

Lay one cabbage leaf flat. Place about ¼ cup of the filling near the stem end.

Step 7: Roll

Fold the sides inward and roll tightly like a burrito, enclosing the filling completely.

Step 8: Prepare the Baking Dish

Spread about 1 cup of the tomato sauce over the bottom of a large baking dish.

Step 9: Arrange the Rolls

Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a single layer.

Step 10: Add the Sauce

Pour the remaining tomato sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls, making sure they are well covered.

Step 11: Bake

Cover tightly with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1½ to 2 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is fully cooked.

Step 12: Rest

Let the cabbage rolls rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Step 13: Garnish

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with a spoonful of the tomato sauce.

Tips, Notes & Q&A

Tips

  • Freeze the whole cabbage overnight and thaw it before using for naturally softened leaves.
  • Avoid overfilling the cabbage leaves to prevent splitting.
  • Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for beef.
  • Fresh herbs add even more flavor to the filling.
  • The cabbage rolls taste even better after resting overnight in the refrigerator.

Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the cabbage rolls one day ahead, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake.

How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Can I freeze cabbage rolls?
Yes. Freeze baked or unbaked cabbage rolls in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before baking or reheating.

What side dishes pair well with cabbage rolls?
Mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad are all excellent choices.

Servings

Serves 6

Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 390
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Fat: 19g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sugar: 8g
  • Sodium: 690mg

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls in Tomato Sauce are a comforting classic featuring tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory beef and rice filling, then baked in a rich homemade tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions, this hearty recipe delivers traditional homestyle flavor with every delicious bite.

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