Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Introduction
Classic cabbage rolls are a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for family dinners. Tender cabbage leaves are filled with a savory mixture of ground meat and rice, then baked in a rich tomato sauce. This traditional recipe is simple yet delicious and sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Carefully separate the cabbage leaves and blanch them in boiling water for 2–3 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasoning.
- Step 3: Place a generous spoonful of the meat mixture onto each cabbage leaf. Fold in the sides and roll up tightly to enclose the filling.
- Step 4: Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour the tomato sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are well covered.
- Step 5: Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, or until the cabbage is tender and the meat is cooked through.
Tips & Variations
- Use a mixture of ground beef and pork for a richer flavor.
- For extra tenderness, add a splash of broth to the tomato sauce before baking.
- Try adding chopped onions or garlic to the meat mixture for more depth.
- Serve with sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
Storage
Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave individually for a few minutes.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh cabbage instead of cabbage leaves?
It’s best to use whole cabbage leaves for stuffing, as fresh cabbage shredded or chopped won’t hold the filling well.
Can I prepare cabbage rolls in advance?
Yes, you can assemble the rolls ahead of time, keep them refrigerated, and bake when ready. This makes meal prep easier on busy days.
PrintClassic Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Classic Cabbage Rolls are a comforting dish featuring tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a savory mixture of ground meat and rice, smothered in rich tomato sauce and baked until perfectly tender. This traditional recipe delivers hearty flavors and a satisfying texture, making it a beloved meal for family dinners or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 medium head of cabbage (about 2–3 pounds)
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 cup water or broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage: Core the cabbage and carefully separate the leaves. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until pliable. Drain and set aside to cool.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix thoroughly until evenly blended.
- Stuff the Leaves: Lay a cabbage leaf flat, place about 2 tablespoons of filling near the base, and fold in the sides before rolling up tightly to enclose the filling. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
- Arrange Rolls in Baking Dish: Place the stuffed cabbage rolls seam side down in a baking dish, packing them snugly in a single layer.
- Prepare Sauce: In a bowl, mix together tomato sauce, water or broth, olive oil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour evenly over the cabbage rolls to cover them.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
- Serve: Let the cabbage rolls rest for a few minutes before serving. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
Notes
- Blanching cabbage leaves makes them flexible and easier to roll without tearing.
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner filling.
- For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with cooked lentils or mushrooms.
- Leftovers reheat well and flavors deepen the next day.
- Adjust the seasoning in the filling and sauce to your taste, adding herbs like dill or parsley if desired.
Keywords: cabbage rolls, stuffed cabbage, ground meat recipe, baked cabbage rolls, classic cabbage rolls
