Stuffed cabbage rolls are a dish steeped in tradition, loved by many cultures around the world. From Eastern European kitchens to Middle Eastern tables, variations of this hearty meal have brought families together for centuries. This recipe for Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls features tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of beef, rice, and seasonings, all smothered in a tangy, slightly sweet tomato sauce.

This dish is comfort food at its finest. The combination of soft cabbage, flavorful filling, and rich sauce makes it satisfying, while the preparation process offers an opportunity to connect with family and pass down culinary traditions. Whether you’re making these rolls for a special gathering or a simple dinner, they are sure to become a household favorite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 8-10 cabbage leaves
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 tsp salt
• 1½ tsp pepper
• ½ medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup rice
• ½ cup milk
• 2 cloves garlic, crushed
• 1 beaten egg
• Cheese of your choice (for topping)

For the Sauce:

• 1 8 oz can of tomato sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tsp lemon juice

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Carefully remove the core of the cabbage, then place the whole head in boiling water. Let it cook for 5-8 minutes, or until the outer leaves become soft and pliable.
3. Gently peel off 8-10 cabbage leaves, ensuring they remain intact. Set them aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, salt, pepper, finely chopped onion, rice, milk, crushed garlic, and the beaten egg.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. The mixture should be moist but hold its shape when pressed.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

1. Lay one cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Trim any thick vein at the base of the leaf to make it easier to roll.
2. Place 2-3 tablespoons of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf.
3. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the base to the top. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. In a bowl, combine the tomato sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. Mix well.
2. Adjust seasoning to taste, adding a pinch of salt or pepper if desired.

Step 5: Cook the Rolls

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Place the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in a baking dish.
3. Pour the prepared tomato sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45-50 minutes.
5. Remove the foil, sprinkle cheese over the top of the rolls, and return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve

1. Let the stuffed cabbage rolls rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm with extra sauce on the side.

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Servings: 4-6 rolls

Calories: ~320 kcal per serving

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Stuffed cabbage rolls have stood the test of time due to their hearty, nourishing nature and their ability to adapt to different tastes. This version combines the classic flavors of beef and rice with a sweet-tangy tomato sauce, offering a balance of savory and slightly sweet notes that appeals to all palates.

The dish is also versatile—you can swap the ground beef for pork, chicken, or even a plant-based alternative. The addition of cheese on top modernizes the traditional recipe, adding a creamy richness to each bite. This flexibility ensures that stuffed cabbage rolls remain relevant in diverse culinary traditions, cherished by both old and new generations.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~320 kcal
• Protein: 15 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Sugars: 8 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 85 mg
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sodium: 580 mg

FAQs

1. Can I make these rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls and sauce a day in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, and assemble them just before baking.

2. Can I freeze stuffed cabbage rolls?
Yes, they freeze well. Place the assembled rolls in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

3. Can I use different types of rice?
Yes, white or brown rice works well, but be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly for brown rice, as it takes longer to cook.

Tips for Perfect Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

1. Soften the Cabbage Properly:
   Boiling the cabbage is crucial to ensure the leaves are pliable and easy to roll. Alternatively, you can freeze the cabbage overnight and thaw it the next day for similar results.
2. Don’t Overfill the Leaves:
   Using the right amount of filling prevents the rolls from bursting during cooking.
3. Adjust the Sauce:
   For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or red chili flakes to the tomato mixture.
4. Layer Flavors:
   For extra flavor, place a few cabbage leaves at the bottom of the baking dish before arranging the rolls. They’ll absorb the sauce and add depth to the dish.

Storage Tips

Refrigerating:
Leftover stuffed cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Reheating:
Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes until warmed through.

Freezing:
For long-term storage, freeze cooked rolls in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Ensure they’re well-coated in sauce to prevent freezer burn.

Conclusion

There’s something deeply comforting about biting into a warm, flavorful stuffed cabbage roll. The tender cabbage, savory filling, and rich tomato sauce come together to create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re serving it for a cozy family dinner or introducing a traditional dish to friends, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Beyond its taste, the process of making stuffed cabbage rolls fosters a sense of connection. From carefully preparing each leaf to rolling them with care, it’s a dish that encourages patience and togetherness. And with every bite, you’ll be reminded why this recipe has been passed down through generations—it’s simply timeless.

Stuffed cabbage rolls embody the heart of home cooking: simple ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and flavors that nourish the soul. Try this recipe today, and bring a touch of culinary history to your table.