Go Back
Delicious stuffed cabbage rolls filled with meat and rice on a plate

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Comforting stuffed cabbage rolls filled with ground beef and rice, baked in a savory tomato sauce. A perfect meal for busy nights.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cabbage Preparation
  • 1 large head green cabbage
Filling
  • 1 lb ground beef (or turkey) Turkey is a lighter option.
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings (Optional)
  • fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese Use as desired.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully peel off the leaves of the cabbage and drop them into the pot for about 2 minutes, just until they’re tender. Remove and let cool.
Mixing the Filling
  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onions, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands.
Rolling the Cabbage
  1. Take a cooked cabbage leaf, spoon about 2 tablespoons of the filling into the center, and roll it up snugly. Tuck the ends in to keep the filling contained.
Preparing the Sauce
  1. In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes. Spread a thin layer at the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking.
Layering and Baking
  1. Place the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the baking dish. Pour the remaining sauce over the top, making sure every roll is covered.
  2. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 50-60 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Serving
  1. Once done, sprinkle with fresh herbs or cheese if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

If your sauce looks lumpy, don't worry—it's all part of the flavor. Rolls can be prepared a day ahead; just refrigerate until ready to bake. Feel free to customize with different proteins or cheeses.