Print

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a comforting and hearty dish made by wrapping tender cabbage leaves around a savory mixture of meat, rice, and spices, then simmering everything in a rich tomato sauce. It’s a timeless, satisfying meal perfect for cozy dinners.

Ingredients

  1. 1 head green cabbage
  2. 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
  3. 1 cup cooked white rice
  4. 1 small onion, finely chopped
  5. 2 garlic cloves, minced
  6. 1 egg
  7. 2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  8. 2 tbsp tomato paste
  9. 1 tbsp olive oil
  10. 1 tsp paprika
  11. 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  12. Salt and black pepper, to taste
  13. 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar (optional)
  14. 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Core the cabbage and place it in the pot. Boil for 3–5 minutes, removing softened leaves as they loosen. Set aside.
  2. In a bowl, mix ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper until just combined.
  3. Place a spoonful of filling on a cabbage leaf. Fold in the sides and roll tightly from the bottom up. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
  4. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
  5. Stir in tomato sauce, lemon juice (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
  6. Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down in the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 45–60 minutes, until fully cooked and tender.
  7. Serve hot with extra sauce and a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top.

Notes

  • Use ground pork, chicken, or lentils for variety.
  • Substitute rice with quinoa or bulgur for a grain twist.
  • Freeze leftover rolls with sauce for up to 3 months.
  • Add a pinch of chili flakes for extra heat or brown sugar for a sweet-and-sour flavor.

Nutrition