Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 800 g minced beef
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
• 1 teaspoon dried garlic
• Fresh parsley, finely chopped, to taste
• Butter, for greasing and frying

For the Filling:

• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, grated or finely chopped
• 1/2 head of cabbage, large outer leaves separated and blanched

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon Italian herbs
• 150 ml warm milk
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• Fresh dill, finely chopped, to taste
• Fresh coriander, finely chopped, to taste
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Butter, as needed for cooking

Steps to Make It

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cooking Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Servings: 6-8

Estimated Calories: 350 kcal per serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
   Begin by carefully removing the outer leaves of the cabbage, ensuring they remain intact. Blanch the leaves by placing them in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Drain them and set them aside to cool. If needed, trim the thick stem at the base of each leaf to make them more pliable for rolling.
2. Make the Beef Filling
   In a large bowl, combine the minced beef, eggs, paprika, Italian herbs, dried garlic, and a generous handful of chopped parsley. Mix everything together until fully combined. You want the mixture to be firm but pliable, so add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
3. Prepare the Filling Vegetables
   In a separate pan, melt a little butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and grated carrot. Sauté them until soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Let the vegetable mixture cool slightly before adding it to the beef mixture.
4. Stuff the Cabbage Rolls
   Take each cabbage leaf and place a generous spoonful of the beef and vegetable mixture at the base. Roll the leaf tightly around the filling, folding in the sides as you go. Repeat this process until all the cabbage leaves are filled. If you have leftover filling, you can form small meatballs or patties and cook them alongside the rolls.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce
   In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until soft. Add the chopped cabbage and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in the sugar, Italian herbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour in the warm milk and apple cider vinegar, mixing well. Let the mixture simmer for another 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Cook the Cabbage Rolls
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt a little butter over medium heat. Place the cabbage rolls seam side down and gently fry for 2-3 minutes to brown them slightly. Once browned, add the creamy cabbage sauce over the rolls. Cover and let them simmer on low heat for about 40-45 minutes, until the beef is cooked through and the cabbage is tender.
7. Serve
   Carefully remove the cabbage rolls from the pot and plate them. Spoon some of the creamy sauce over the rolls. Garnish with freshly chopped dill and coriander. Serve warm with a side of potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Hearty and comforting, Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Beef and Creamy Sauce have been enjoyed by generations for good reason. The combination of tender cabbage, juicy beef, and a rich, creamy sauce creates a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. Cabbage is an ingredient that has stood the test of time, offering affordability and versatility while retaining its beloved flavor and texture when cooked properly. Paired with the natural sweetness of carrots, the earthiness of garlic, and the warmth of Italian herbs, these cabbage rolls are a balance of comfort and flavor.

The creamy sauce is what takes this dish from simple to special, adding depth and richness that enhances the flavor of the filling. The use of apple cider vinegar gives the sauce a tangy contrast, perfectly complementing the richness of the beef and the cabbage. Plus, the dish’s hearty nature makes it an ideal meal for cooler weather, holiday dinners, or any time you crave something filling and wholesome.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal
• Protein: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 25 g
• Fat: 18 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugars: 8 g

FAQs

Q: Can I make these cabbage rolls ahead of time?
Yes! These cabbage rolls can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Just cook them as directed when you’re ready to serve. This can actually enhance the flavor, as the filling has time to meld together.

Q: Can I substitute the beef with another meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be used as a substitute for beef. Adjust the seasoning to match the flavor of the meat you choose.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The cabbage rolls can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Let them cool completely before freezing, and reheat from frozen in a low-temperature oven or stovetop.

Tips for Making Perfect Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

1. Blanch the cabbage properly: Make sure to blanch the cabbage leaves long enough so they are soft and pliable, but not so long that they become mushy. Over-blanching will make the leaves hard to work with.
2. Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and coriander give the dish a burst of flavor. Don’t be afraid to add them generously to the filling and sauce.
3. Simmer gently: Cook the cabbage rolls on low heat to allow the flavors to meld and the beef to cook through without drying out the cabbage or meat.
4. Use warm milk: Adding warm milk to the sauce helps it incorporate more smoothly, giving you a creamier and more uniform texture.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep them in an airtight container to maintain their flavor and texture.
• Freezing: If you’d like to freeze these rolls, let them cool completely before wrapping them tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Store them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Reheat them thoroughly before serving.
• Freezing the sauce: If you have extra sauce, you can freeze it in a separate container for up to 3 months. Reheat it gently before serving with the rolls.

Conclusion

Hearty Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Beef, Carrots, and a Creamy Milk Sauce is a meal that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. The tender cabbage, juicy beef, and savory, creamy sauce come together to make a dish that’s not only comforting but deeply satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a quiet meal at home, this dish offers both nourishment and flavor that will leave you feeling content. Its timeless nature, paired with the ease of customization and heartiness, ensures it will continue to be a family favorite for generations to come.