
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory meat and rice mixture, baked in a rich tomato sauce until perfectly tender. A comforting family favorite!
Ingredients
For the Rolls
- 1 large cabbage
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or chicken
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Sauce
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Cabbage
Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Carefully place the whole cabbage into the water.
Cook for 5–7 minutes until the leaves soften.
Remove and let cool.
Gently peel off 10–12 large leaves.
Make the Filling
In a bowl, combine:
Ground meat
Cooked rice
Chopped onion
Egg
Garlic powder
Salt and pepper
Mix until evenly combined.
Fill the Cabbage Leaves
Lay a cabbage leaf flat.
Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling near the base.
Fold in the sides.
Roll tightly to form a neat cabbage roll.
Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, mix together:
Tomato sauce
Olive oil
Paprika
Stir well.
Assemble
Spread a little sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down.
Pour the remaining sauce over the top.
Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cover with foil.
Bake for 45–50 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the filling is fully cooked.
Serve
Let rest for 5 minutes.
Spoon extra sauce over the rolls.
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Quick Q&A
Can I use ground chicken instead of beef?
Yes! Ground chicken makes a lighter version.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the rolls up to a day ahead and refrigerate before baking.
Can I freeze them?
Absolutely. Freeze before or after baking for up to 2 months.
Nutritional Benefits
Cabbage provides fiber and vitamins.
Ground meat adds protein and iron.
Rice makes the filling hearty and satisfying.
Tomato sauce adds antioxidants and delicious flavor.
These Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are tender, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy homemade meal!
