Description
Warm, hearty, and packed with nostalgic flavor, these Stuffed Cabbages are the perfect blend of savory ground beef, soft rice, and tender cabbage leaves simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Whether you're looking for a classic comfort food, easy dinner idea, or a dish that gets better with time, this recipe checks every box. Naturally gluten-free, freezer-friendly, and full of flavor, it’s perfect for cozy meals, meal prep, or family gatherings. A must-have in your easy recipe rotation and ideal if you're hunting for comforting food ideas or healthy-ish dinners that satisfy.
Ingredients
1 large head green cabbage
1 pound ground beef
1 cup cooked white rice
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
2 cups crushed tomatoes
1 cup tomato sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Core the cabbage and boil for 3–5 minutes until leaves soften. Remove 10–12 large leaves and set aside.
2. In a skillet, sauté onion until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
3. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, cooked rice, egg, sautéed onion and garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Combine gently.
4. In a bowl, stir together crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, brown sugar (if using), and vinegar or lemon juice. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling onto each cabbage leaf. Fold sides in and roll up tightly.
6. Arrange rolls seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Pour sauce over rolls to mostly cover them.
7. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour.
8. Uncover and bake for an additional 20–30 minutes until tops are slightly browned and sauce thickens.
9. Let rest for 10–15 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease while still keeping the rolls flavorful.
You can prepare the rolls the night before and bake them fresh the next day.
Make sure to cover the rolls with enough sauce so they don’t dry out during baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 rolls
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: stuffed cabbages, easy dinner, cabbage rolls, gluten-free recipe, comfort food, freezer meal