Tender cabbage leaves stuffed with seasoned ground beef, rice, and onions, then slowly baked in a rich tomato sauce. This traditional comfort food is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a family dinner.
Cook: 1 hour 30 minutesServings: 6
Ingredients
For the cabbage rolls:
- 1 large head green cabbage
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- ½ lb (225 g) ground pork (optional; substitute beef)
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the tomato sauce:
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- ½ cup beef broth or water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the cabbage
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Carefully remove the cabbage core.
- Place the whole cabbage in boiling water for 5–8 minutes.
- Gently peel away 12–15 softened leaves.
- Transfer the leaves to a plate and allow them to cool.
- Trim the thick center rib of each leaf to make rolling easier.
Step 2: Make the meat filling
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the chopped onion for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, cooked rice, onion mixture, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley.
- Mix gently until everything is evenly combined.
Step 3: Prepare the tomato sauce
- Combine tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, brown sugar, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and garlic powder in a saucepan.
- Add beef broth or water.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Roll the cabbage leaves
- Lay one cabbage leaf flat on a cutting board.
- Place approximately ¼ cup of meat mixture near the base.
- Fold the sides inward.
- Roll tightly from the bottom toward the top.
- Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves.
Step 5: Assemble the baking dish
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in a large baking dish.
- Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down.
- Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the rolls.
- Cover tightly with aluminum foil.
Step 6: Bake until tender
- Bake covered for 75 minutes.
- Remove the foil.
- Continue baking for another 15–20 minutes.
- Check that the cabbage is tender and the filling reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Step 7: Serve and enjoy
Arrange the cabbage rolls on a serving platter, spoon warm tomato sauce over the top, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
Serve with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a fresh garden salad.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Tender cabbage: Blanch the leaves until flexible to prevent tearing.
- Juicy filling: Avoid overmixing the ground meat.
- Rich sauce: Add a small amount of brown sugar to balance tomato acidity.
- Extra flavor: Refrigerate leftovers overnight; the flavors deepen.
- Freezer-friendly: Freeze cooked cabbage rolls with sauce for up to 3 months.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days.
Freezer: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Cover and warm in a 325°F (165°C) oven until heated through to 165°F (74°C).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare cabbage rolls ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble them a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready, allowing a little extra cooking time if chilled.
Can I use uncooked rice?
Cooked rice is recommended for this version to ensure a tender, evenly cooked filling.
Can I make this recipe without pork?
Absolutely. Use 1½ pounds of ground beef instead.
Can I make cabbage rolls in a slow cooker?
Yes. Arrange the rolls in a slow cooker, cover with tomato sauce, and cook on LOW for approximately 6–8 hours, until the filling is fully cooked and the cabbage is tender.
Conclusion
These Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls bring together tender cabbage, savory meat filling, fluffy rice, and rich tomato sauce in one comforting homemade meal. Perfect for Sunday dinners, family gatherings, and make-ahead meals.
