Classic Comfort Dish
If you’re craving a hearty, home-style meal that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are the perfect choice. This timeless dish features tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and herbs, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce. It’s a beloved recipe across many cultures — from Eastern Europe to the Mediterranean — known for turning simple ingredients into a deeply satisfying family meal.
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🌿 Ingredients
For the Cabbage Rolls:
1 large head of green cabbage
1 lb (450g) ground beef or a mix of beef and pork
1 cup cooked rice
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg, lightly beaten
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
For the Tomato Sauce:
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz / 425g) crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup beef or vegetable broth
1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp pepper
1 tsp dried oregano or thyme
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🍳 Instructions
1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Carefully remove the core of the cabbage and place the whole head into the boiling water.
3. As the outer leaves soften, gently peel them off and set aside. Repeat until you have about 10–12 large leaves.
4. Trim the thick vein on the back of each leaf to make them easier to roll.
2. Make the Filling
1. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley.
2. Mix gently until well combined, but don’t overwork the meat.
3. Assemble the Rolls
1. Lay one cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface.
2. Place about 2–3 tablespoons of the filling near the base of the leaf.
3. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly, like a burrito.
4. Repeat until all the filling is used.
4. Prepare the Sauce
1. In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté the onion until translucent, then add the garlic.
3. Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, broth, sugar, salt, pepper, and herbs.
4. Simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors blend.
5. Cook the Rolls
1. Pour a little sauce into the bottom of a large pot or baking dish.
2. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a single layer.
3. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls.
4. Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour and 15 minutes, or simmer on the stovetop over low heat for about 1 hour, until the rolls are tender and fully cooked.
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🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve your stuffed cabbage rolls hot, topped with a spoonful of the rich tomato sauce. Pair them with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a light green salad for a balanced, comforting meal.
For a creamy twist, add a dollop of sour cream on top before serving — a traditional touch in many Eastern European kitchens.
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💡 Tips & Variations
Make it vegetarian: Replace meat with cooked lentils or quinoa and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or carrots.
Freeze for later: Cabbage rolls freeze beautifully! Store in an airtight container with sauce for up to 3 months.
Add a smoky flavor: Use smoked paprika or a bit of bacon in the sauce for depth.
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❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Stuffed cabbage rolls are more than just a meal — they’re comfort on a plate. The soft cabbage, savory filling, and tangy tomato sauce come together in a dish that feels like a warm hug from home. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or festive gatherings, this recipe is a delicious taste of tradition.
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe
