Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

“Learn how to make delicious Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with a savory beef and rice filling, wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and baked in a rich tomato sauce. This easy stuffed cabbage recipe is perfect for dinner, family meals, or potlucks. The combination of ground beef, rice, and homemade tomato sauce makes these cabbage rolls a comforting, hearty dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re a fan of classic cabbage roll recipes or looking for a new twist, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Get the step-by-step instructions for the best stuffed cabbage rolls, plus tips and variations for customizing your dish.”

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• ½ large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 (28oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 15 cabbage leaves
• 1 lb ground beef
• ¼ cup uncooked white rice
• ¼ cup Italian breadcrumbs
• ½ large onion, chopped
• 2 tbsp freshly chopped parsley, plus more for garnish
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Make the Sauce: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the tomato paste, brown sugar, and balsamic vinegar. Cook for about 30 seconds, allowing the ingredients to become fragrant.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes and dried oregano to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the sauce simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Prepare the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully blanch the cabbage leaves for about 1 minute, or until they are tender and flexible. Remove the leaves from the water and set them aside to cool.
4. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef, 1 cup of the tomato sauce, uncooked rice, Italian breadcrumbs, chopped onion, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything until well combined.
6. Assemble the Rolls: Remove the tough vein from the center of each cabbage leaf. Place about ⅓ cup of the beef mixture at the base of each cabbage leaf. Roll the cabbage tightly, tucking in the sides as you go, until fully wrapped. Place the rolls seam-side down in a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
7. Spread 1 cup of the sauce on the bottom of the dish. Arrange the cabbage rolls on top, seam-side down. Spoon the remaining sauce over the rolls. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
8. Bake: Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
9. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy!

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Tips

• When blanching the cabbage, be careful not to overcook the leaves. They should remain pliable but not fall apart.
• If you prefer a more tender filling, you can cook the rice halfway before mixing it into the meat mixture.
• To save time, make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Variations and Substitutions

• Meat: Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef for a leaner option.
• Rice: For extra flavor, try using cooked quinoa or couscous instead of white rice.
• Vegetarian Option: Use lentils or mushrooms instead of ground beef for a delicious vegetarian filling.

FAQs

Can I make these rolls in advance?
Yes! Stuffed cabbage rolls can be assembled ahead of time, stored in the refrigerator, and baked the next day.

Can I freeze stuffed cabbage rolls?
Absolutely! After baking, let them cool completely, then freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve stuffed cabbage rolls with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Pair with a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These stuffed cabbage rolls are hearty, flavorful, and full of comfort. The combination of savory beef, tender cabbage, and rich tomato sauce makes for a dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions, this recipe is sure to become a favorite!