Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: A Comforting Classic with Layers of Flavor 🥩🍅🥬
These Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a timeless dish that combines tender cabbage leaves, savory ground beef filling, and a rich tomato sauce. With their hearty flavors and comforting textures, they’re perfect for family dinners, holiday meals, or meal prep. This recipe is packed with aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and a touch of sweetness from the tomato sauce, making it a dish that’s as delicious as it is satisfying.
Let’s dive into how to make these mouthwatering cabbage rolls step by step!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and Filling : The combination of lean ground beef, rice, and cabbage creates a balanced and satisfying meal.
- Flavorful Filling : Worcestershire sauce, garlic, parsley, and spices add depth and aroma to the beef mixture.
- Versatile : Customize with optional ingredients like red chili flakes or fresh herbs to suit your taste.
- Make Ahead Friendly : These cabbage rolls can be assembled ahead of time and baked when ready to serve, making them perfect for busy days or entertaining.
Ingredients
(Serves 6–8)
For the Filling:
- 1 cup cooked long-grain rice (or similar variety )
- 1.5 pounds lean ground beef (or extra lean )
- 1.5 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 large egg
- 1 yellow onion , peeled and minced
- ⅓ cup parsley , roughly chopped
- 3 cloves garlic , minced
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon dried dill
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ to 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional for heat )
For the Sauce:
- 42 ounces tomato sauce , divided (about 5 cups, roughly three 14-ounce cans )
- ½ cup water (leftover from boiling cabbage )
For Assembly:
- 1 medium head green cabbage (you’ll need about 18 leaves for the rolls and another 8–10 for lining the dish and covering the rolls )
- Fresh dill , chopped (garnish, optional )
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Rice and Preheat Oven
- Cook the rice according to package instructions. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. Make the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, egg, cooked rice, minced onion, parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, dill, onion powder, red chili flakes (if using), and ½ cup of tomato sauce .
- Mix until all ingredients are evenly combined. Set aside.
3. Soften the Cabbage Leaves
- Fill a large pot with enough water to submerge the head of cabbage halfway. Bring the water to a boil.
- Carefully place the whole head of cabbage in the boiling water. Boil for 8–10 minutes , turning the cabbage halfway through to ensure even softening.
- Remove the cabbage from the water and let it cool slightly. Reserve the boiling water for later use.
- Once the cabbage is cool enough to handle, carefully peel off the outer leaves. If the inner leaves are still too firm, return the cabbage to the boiling water for a few more minutes to soften additional leaves. Repeat until you have about 18 usable leaves .
4. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls
- Line the bottom of a deep 9×13-inch baking dish or roasting pan with some of the smaller or torn cabbage leaves to prevent sticking.
- Take one cabbage leaf at a time and place about ¼ cup of the beef mixture in the center. Fold in the sides of the leaf and roll it up tightly, placing the roll seam-side down in the prepared dish.
- Continue assembling the rolls until all the filling is used, arranging them snugly in the dish.
5. Prepare the Sauce
- In a medium bowl, combine the remaining tomato sauce with ½ cup of the reserved cabbage water . Whisk to incorporate everything.
- Pour the sauce evenly over the top of the cabbage rolls.
6. Bake
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 hours , or until the cabbage rolls are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Optional: For the last 10–15 minutes of baking, remove the foil to allow the tops of the rolls to brown slightly.
7. Garnish and Serve
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Garnish with freshly chopped dill if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Cabbage : Look for a medium-sized, firm head of green cabbage. Avoid overly large heads, as the leaves may be too tough.
- Don’t Overfill the Rolls : Use about ¼ cup of filling per leaf to ensure the rolls hold together during baking.
- Add Extra Flavor : Stir in a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar into the tomato sauce for added depth.
- Make Ahead : Assemble the cabbage rolls up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding 10–15 minutes to the cooking time if starting from cold.
- Gluten-Free Option : Use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and ensure your tomato sauce is gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
These Stuffed Cabbage Rolls pair beautifully with a variety of sides:
- Mashed Potatoes : Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the flavorful tomato sauce.
- Steamed Vegetables : Serve with roasted carrots, green beans, or Brussels sprouts for a healthy and colorful complement.
- Crusty Bread : Warm, crusty bread adds an extra layer of indulgence.
- Side Salad : Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens for a refreshing contrast.
- Wine Pairing : Enjoy with a glass of Merlot or Pinot Noir to elevate the dining experience.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)
- Calories : ~350 kcal
- Protein : ~25g
- Carbohydrates : ~30g
- Fat : ~15g
- Fiber : ~5g
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.
Final Thoughts
These Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a comforting and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With their tender cabbage leaves, savory beef filling, and rich tomato sauce, they’re a celebration of hearty, home-cooked goodness.
Whether you’re making them for a holiday meal, a cozy weeknight dinner, or meal prep, this recipe is a winner. So grab your ingredients, fire up the oven, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s equal parts comforting and satisfying.
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