Hearty Homemade Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Comfort meets tradition in these hearty stuffed cabbage rolls that bring warmth to any dinner table.

Eastern European families have perfected this delectable cabbage rolls recipe over generations.

Tender cabbage leaves wrap around a savory mixture of ground meat and rice, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.

Each roll tells a story of culinary heritage and love.

Packed with protein and rich seasonings, these cabbage rolls offer a satisfying meal that connects you to classic home cooking.

The aroma alone will draw everyone to the kitchen, eager to taste this timeless dish.

Prepare to savor every comforting bite of this beloved family favorite.

Why Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Are Comfort on a Plate

• No complicated techniques required, making this recipe perfect for home cooks of all skill levels.
• Combines lean protein from beef, fiber-rich cabbage, and wholesome rice for a balanced, hearty meal.
• Delivers classic homestyle flavors that remind you of traditional family gatherings and warm kitchen memories.
• Can be prepared ahead of time and reheated, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal planning enthusiasts.

Everything You Need for Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Main Ingredients:

Cabbage Leaves: A tender and flexible wrapper that holds the delicious filling and provides a nutritious base for the rolls.

Ground Beef: A flavorful and protein-rich meat that forms the primary filling of the cabbage rolls.

Rice: A soft and starchy grain that helps bind the meat mixture and adds substance to the filling.

• Onion, Garlic: Classic flavor enhancers that add depth and richness to the meat mixture.
• Paprika, Oregano, Red Pepper Flakes: Spices that contribute warmth, earthiness, and a subtle kick to the filling.
• Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and highlight the overall taste of the dish.

• Diced Tomatoes: Adds moisture and tangy flavor to the meat mixture.
• Tomato Sauce: Creates a rich, saucy environment for baking the cabbage rolls.
• Broth: Provides additional moisture and helps keep the rolls tender during baking.

• Fresh Parsley: A bright, fresh herb that adds color and a light, herbal note to the finished dish.

Best Tools for Rolling Cabbage Like a Pro

• Large pot: Essential for boiling cabbage leaves and softening them.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning beef and sautéing onions and garlic.
• Baking dish: Holds cabbage rolls during baking for even cooking.
• Cutting board: Used for chopping onions and preparing ingredients.
• Sharp knife: Needed for dicing tomatoes and chopping vegetables.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring beef mixture and mixing ingredients.
• Measuring cups/spoons: Helps accurately measure rice and spices.
• Aluminum foil: Covers baking dish to keep cabbage rolls moist during baking.

How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Rolls at Home

Step 1: Prep the Leafy Green Giant

Grab a massive pot and fill it with water, bringing it to a rolling boil.

Carefully extract the core from the cabbage head and gently lower the entire cabbage into the bubbling water.

Let it dance in the hot bath for about 5 minutes until the outer leaves become wonderfully pliable.

Fish out the cabbage and start peeling off the softened leaves with care.

Step 2: Craft the Flavorful Filling

Heat up a skillet and brown the ground beef until it’s got a beautiful color.

• Chopped onions
• Minced garlic

Mix in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and a symphony of spices including paprika, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

Stir everything until it’s beautifully combined and smelling incredible.

Step 3: Roll Up the Deliciousness

Lay out a cabbage leaf and place a generous spoonful of the meaty mixture in the center.

Fold the sides in and roll it up like a cozy blanket.

Nestle each roll seam-side down in a baking dish, creating a snug little cabbage family.

Step 4: Sauce and Bake

Drizzle tomato sauce and broth over the cabbage rolls, covering them in a warm liquid hug.

Tent the dish with foil and slide it into a preheated 350F oven.

Let it bake for a full hour, allowing all the flavors to mingle and get to know each other.

Step 5: Serve with Love

Pull out the golden-brown cabbage rolls and sprinkle some fresh parsley on top.

Dish out these hearty rolls and watch everyone’s eyes light up with excitement.

This comfort food is ready to steal the show at dinner!

Top Tips for Tasty Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Boil cabbage for exactly 5 minutes to make leaves pliable without tearing, ensuring easy rolling and preventing overcooking.
• Mix ground beef with rice and spices thoroughly to distribute flavors evenly, creating a consistent and tasty filling throughout each roll.
• Use lean ground beef to prevent excess grease and ensure the rolls remain juicy but not soggy during baking.
• Opt for fresh parsley when garnishing to add brightness and a clean, vibrant flavor that complements the rich, hearty cabbage rolls.
• Cover baking dish with foil to retain moisture and protect rolls from drying out or developing burnt edges during the one-hour cooking process.

Delicious Twists on Classic Cabbage Rolls

• Vegetarian Cabbage Rolls: Replace ground beef with lentils, quinoa, or plant-based crumbles for a protein-packed meat-free version.
• Keto-Friendly Option: Swap rice with cauliflower rice and use low-carb tomato sauce to reduce carbohydrate content.
• Mediterranean Variation: Add feta cheese, use lamb instead of beef, and incorporate fresh herbs like mint and dill for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
• Spicy Southwest Twist: Mix in black beans, corn, jalapeños, and swap paprika with chili powder for a zesty southwestern-style cabbage roll.

Serving Stuffed Cabbage Rolls for Family Gatherings

• Cozy Family Dinner Centerpiece: Arrange the golden-brown cabbage rolls on a large rustic platter, creating an inviting family-style presentation that encourages sharing and warmth.
• Hearty Side Companion: Pair these rolls with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles to soak up the delicious tomato sauce and complete the meal with extra comfort.
• Fresh Herb Finishing Touch: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley or dill on top just before serving to add a bright, vibrant color and light, aromatic flavor that cuts through the rich meat filling.
• Wine Pairing Delight: Complement the savory rolls with a medium-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Zinfandel, which enhances the robust flavors of the beef and tomato sauce.

Best Storage for Leftover Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Store cooled cabbage rolls in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
• Wrap individual rolls or entire dish tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Label container with date and contents.
• Place rolls on microwave-safe plate, cover with damp paper towel. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Check internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Preheat oven to 350°F. Place rolls in baking dish, add splash of broth to prevent drying. Cover with foil, warm for 15-20 minutes until heated completely.

FAQs

• Can I use a different type of meat instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground pork, turkey, or a plant-based meat alternative for a different flavor profile.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free rice and ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free. Always check labels carefully.

• How do I prevent the cabbage leaves from tearing?

Blanch the cabbage leaves briefly in boiling water and let them cool slightly before rolling. This softens the leaves and makes them more pliable, reducing the chance of tearing.

• Can I prepare stuffed cabbage rolls in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the rolls a day ahead and refrigerate them. When ready to cook, simply pour the sauce and bake as directed. This makes meal prep easier and allows flavors to meld.

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

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4.7 from 17 reviews

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Hearty Polish golabki recipe brings traditional comfort from generations of Eastern European kitchens. Savory beef and rice wrapped in tender cabbage leaves promise a satisfying meal you’ll want to share with family and friends.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cabbage
• 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef
• 1 cup (185 grams) cooked rice

Aromatics and Seasonings:

• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Liquid and Sauce Components:

• 1 can (14.5 ounces/411 grams) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces/425 grams) tomato sauce
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) beef or vegetable broth

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Instructions

1. Core a whole cabbage and immerse it in rapidly boiling water for approximately 5 minutes until outer leaves become pliable. Gently extract leaves, allowing them to cool and drain on a clean kitchen towel.
2. Heat a skillet and brown ground beef over medium-high temperature. Incorporate finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until vegetables become translucent and fragrant.
3. Blend cooked rice into the meat mixture, stirring in diced tomatoes and aromatic spices including paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Season thoroughly with salt and pepper to enhance flavor profile.
4. Lay a single cabbage leaf flat, placing a measured portion of meat mixture near the leaf’s base. Carefully fold sides inward, then roll tightly from bottom to top, ensuring a compact parcel.
5. Arrange rolled cabbage packages seam-side down in a ceramic or glass baking dish, creating a neat arrangement without overcrowding.
6. Generously drench rolls with tomato sauce and savory broth, ensuring complete coverage. Seal the baking dish securely with aluminum foil.
7. Slide dish into a preheated 350°F oven, allowing rolls to simmer and meld flavors for precisely 60 minutes until heated completely through.
8. Remove foil, let rolls rest momentarily, then garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while piping hot for optimal taste and texture.

Notes

• Select large, flexible cabbage leaves to make rolling easier and prevent tearing during preparation.
• For gluten-free version, substitute regular rice with cauliflower rice or quinoa to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Enhance flavor by adding a splash of red wine or Worcester sauce into the meat mixture for deeper, richer taste profile.
• Prep cabbage leaves in advance and refrigerate overnight to save time during actual cooking process, making meal preparation more convenient.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Eastern European

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg