Cabbage Rolls Recipe

If you are searching for a comforting, hearty dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside, Cabbage Rolls are the answer. These tender cabbage leaves are lovingly wrapped around a delicious filling of seasoned ground beef, perfectly cooked rice, and fragrant herbs, then baked in a savory tomato basil sauce that brings everything together beautifully. Ideal for cozy dinners, this dish carries a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, making it a cherished favorite in many homes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t be intimidated by the list of ingredients — each one is straightforward yet crucial to creating the perfect harmony of flavor and texture in the Cabbage Rolls. From the fresh green cabbage leaves to the fragrant Italian seasoning, every element plays a part in making this dish a true comfort food classic.

• 1 cup white rice: Provides a fluffy, filling base that binds beautifully with the beef.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the beef evenly.
• 1 pound extra lean ground beef: The hearty protein at the center of the rolls for satisfying flavor.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced: Brings a sweet, savory depth to the filling.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth and intensity.
• 2 teaspoons salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors to life.
• ½ tablespoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that enhances both filling and sauce.
• 2 ½ cups tomato basil pasta sauce (20 ounces), divided: Creates a tangy, rich sauce that perfectly complements the rolls.
• 1 head green cabbage: The star wrapper, tender yet sturdy enough to hold the filling.
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth during baking, keeping rolls tender and juicy.

How to Make Cabbage Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Start by cooking the rice with water until it’s slightly underdone—this ensures the rice finishes cooking inside the cabbage rolls without turning mushy. Letting it rest after cooking allows it to fluff up nicely for the perfect texture to marry with the beef.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While the rice is resting, brown the ground beef with diced onion and minced garlic. The aroma at this stage is mouthwatering! Season with salt and Italian herbs, then add half a cup of tomato basil sauce to tie everything together. Once warmed through, mix in the rice for a well-incorporated filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

Boil the whole head of cabbage to soften the leaves just enough to make them flexible for rolling. Carefully peel the leaves apart one at a time, trimming the tough stem if needed. This step is crucial because tender yet sturdy leaves will wrap the filling without tearing.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Place a generous half-cup of the beef and rice filling in the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold in the sides, then roll it up tightly like a burrito so the seam is sealed inside. Place each roll seam side down in a baking dish where they’ll sit snugly but not overcrowded.

Step 5: Bake the Cabbage Rolls

Pour chicken broth into the baking dish for moisture and spoon the remaining tomato sauce over the assembled rolls. Cover with foil and bake at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for about 60 to 70 minutes. Baking slowly melds all the flavors, resulting in irresistibly tender rolls.

How to Serve Cabbage Rolls

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill sprinkled on top add a burst of green freshness and brighten the rich tomato sauce. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of tangy yogurt on the side also adds a lovely, cooling contrast that complements the savory notes.

Side Dishes

Cabbage Rolls pair beautifully with simple, comforting sides like buttery mashed potatoes or crusty bread that can soak up all that delicious sauce. Roasted root vegetables or a crisp green salad can bring a wonderful textural balance to the plate and round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving Cabbage Rolls deconstructed in a bowl layered with extra sauce and sprinkled with crispy fried onions for crunch. Or present them on a wooden board with an array of dipping sauces to make it a shareable family-style feast that invites everyone to dig in together.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cabbage Rolls store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the rolls even more satisfying when reheated.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooked rolls individually wrapped or packed snugly in a freezer-safe dish. They keep well frozen for up to 3 months, making them an excellent make-ahead meal for busy days.

Reheating

For the best texture and flavor, reheat cabbage rolls gently in the oven covered with foil until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Microwaving works too in a pinch, but baking helps maintain their tenderness and prevents drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat in Cabbage Rolls?

Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of pork and beef work wonderfully. Each brings its own flavor, and you can adjust the seasoning to match the meat choice for delicious results.

Do the cabbage leaves need to be boiled before rolling?

Yes, briefly boiling the whole cabbage softens the leaves, making them pliable enough to roll without cracking or tearing. It also helps remove any bitterness, creating tender wrappers for your filling.

Can I make Cabbage Rolls vegetarian?

Definitely! Swap the meat for cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a mixture of beans and vegetables. Combine with rice and seasonings just as you would the beef, and enjoy a hearty vegetarian version of this classic meal.

Is it okay to use leftover rice for the filling?

Yes! Using leftover rice saves time and works perfectly in the filling. Just make sure the rice isn’t too dry; you can sprinkle a little water on it and fluff it up before mixing.

What’s the best way to ensure the rolls don’t fall apart during baking?

Wrapping the rolls tightly and placing them seam side down helps keep them intact. Also, baking them covered with foil in a flavorful broth and sauce ensures they stay moist and tender without unraveling.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly special about sinking your teeth into warm, homemade Cabbage Rolls filled with savory beef and rice, all bathed in tangy tomato sauce. This dish offers a wonderful combination of comfort, flavor, and tradition that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it a cozy staple in your kitchen!