These delicious stuffed cabbage bowls are filled with juicy seasoned ground beef, topped with rich tomato sauce and melted cheese, then baked until golden and bubbly. A comforting, hearty family dinner!
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 45–55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Cabbage
- 2 medium green cabbages
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
For the Tomato Sauce
- 2 cups (480 ml) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ½ cup (120 ml) beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon sugar (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cheesy Topping
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Remove any damaged outer leaves from the cabbages.
Cut each cabbage in half horizontally to create four round cabbage bowls.
Using a sharp knife, carefully remove part of the center of each cabbage half, leaving the outer leaves and a thick base intact.
Place the cabbage bowls in a large pot of boiling salted water for 5–8 minutes to soften them slightly.
Drain well and let cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Ground Beef Filling
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add the ground beef and cook for approximately 7–10 minutes, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
Season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and reaches 160°F (71°C).
Stir in fresh parsley and remove from the heat.
Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
In a saucepan, combine tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, oregano, garlic powder, sugar, salt, and black pepper.
Bring to a gentle simmer.
Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly grease a large ceramic baking dish with olive oil.
Spread approximately ½ cup of tomato sauce across the bottom of the dish.
Arrange the softened cabbage bowls upright in the baking dish.
Brush their interiors lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with a little salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Step 5: Stuff the Cabbage Bowls
Spoon the cooked ground beef mixture into each cabbage bowl.
Press the filling down gently so each bowl is generously filled.
Add 2–3 tablespoons of tomato sauce over each portion.
Pour the remaining sauce around the cabbage bowls in the baking dish.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over each stuffed cabbage bowl.
Add shredded cheddar for extra flavor.
Finish with grated Parmesan cheese.
Make sure the filling is completely covered with a generous layer of cheese.
Step 7: Bake Until Golden
Cover the baking dish loosely with aluminum foil.
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden brown.
For an extra golden topping, broil for 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the baking dish from the oven.
Allow the stuffed cabbage bowls to rest for 5 minutes.
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the melted cheese.
Use a large spatula to lift each cabbage bowl onto a serving plate.
Spoon additional tomato sauce over the top and serve hot.
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Cabbage Bowls
- Choose firm, fresh cabbages with tightly packed leaves.
- Pre-cooking the cabbage helps the bowls become tender during baking.
- Drain excess fat from the beef to prevent a greasy filling.
- Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother, creamier topping.
- Add cooked rice to the meat filling for a more traditional stuffed cabbage flavor.
- For a spicy version, add red pepper flakes or a pinch of chili powder.
What to Serve With Stuffed Cabbage Bowls
These cheesy cabbage bowls pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, steamed rice, or a fresh green salad.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 2–3 months.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated thoroughly, or microwave in short intervals until hot throughout.
Final Result
Tender cabbage bowls filled with savory ground beef, covered in rich tomato sauce and topped with a golden layer of melted mozzarella and cheddar.
