Description
Tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful blend of ground meat, rice, and seasonings, all simmered slowly in a tangy tomato sauce — this Stuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe is a nostalgic comfort food classic. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, make-ahead meals, or feeding a crowd. A wholesome and hearty dish for anyone looking for healthy food ideas, easy dinner recipes, or traditional comfort food with real flavor.
Ingredients
1 large green cabbage
1 lb ground beef or pork (or a mix)
1 cup cooked white rice
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
1 tsp sugar (optional)
2 bay leaves
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Core the cabbage and boil the whole head for 5–8 minutes. Peel off softened leaves. Repeat until you have 12–14 leaves. Trim the thick vein of each leaf.
2. In a large bowl, mix ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika until fully combined.
3. Lay a cabbage leaf flat. Add 2–3 tablespoons of filling near the stem end. Fold sides and roll tightly. Repeat with remaining leaves.
4. Line the bottom of a deep pot with leftover cabbage or chopped leaves. Place cabbage rolls seam-side down in layers.
5. Pour tomato sauce over the rolls. Add water or broth to thin the sauce. Add sugar (if using) and tuck in bay leaves.
6. Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, bake in a 350°F (175°C) oven for the same time.
7. Remove carefully, garnish with parsley, and serve hot with sour cream if desired.
Notes
Don’t skip trimming the cabbage stem veins—this makes rolling easier and keeps them from tearing.
You can assemble and refrigerate the rolls one day in advance to save time.
For a vegetarian twist, substitute meat with lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based alternative.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: stuffed cabbage rolls, healthy dinner, comfort food, freezer meal, cabbage recipes