The Only Cabbage Rolls Recipe You Need

Finding the perfect cabbage rolls recipe is like discovering a forgotten family treasure. I still remember the sweet and savory aroma drifting from my grandmother’s stove on chilly autumn afternoons. This cabbage rolls recipe is more than just a meal; it is a labor of love that brings everyone to the table. Whether you are seeking a nostalgic festive dish or a healthy comfort food option, this guide has you covered. It fits beautifully into a slow Sunday routine or a planned weeknight feast. The combination of tender leaves and juicy filling creates a symphony of textures that never goes out of style. Let’s dive into the secrets of making these rolls absolutely unforgettable.

The Flavor Foundation

Quality beef is the heart of this cabbage rolls recipe. I recommend using an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio. The fat provides the necessary moisture so the rolls don’t become dry during the long bake. Fresh herbs like parsley and dill add a brightness that balances the heavy tomato sauce. For a boost in nutritional value, consider the health benefits of cabbage which is packed with vitamin C and fiber.

The Proteins & Veg

• 2.0 lbs Ground Beef (80/20)
• 1.0 large Green Cabbage head
• 1.0 cup White Rice (par-boiled)
• 1.5 cups Onion (finely chopped)
• 4.0 Garlic cloves (minced)

Sauce & Spices

• 2.5 cups Tomato Sauce
• 0.5 cups Beef Stock
• 1.0 tbsp Brown Sugar
• 1.0 tsp Dried Thyme
• Salt and Pepper to taste

Cabbage rolls Recipe Card

Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Recipe by Soukayna

0.0 from 0 votes

Course: MainCuisine: EuropeanDifficulty: Medium

Servings

8

servings

Prep time

45

minutes

Cooking time

1

hour 

30

minutes

Calories

385

kcal

A hearty and healthy version of the classic cabbage rolls recipe, using lean ground beef and aromatic spices for a soul-warming meal.

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Ingredients

• The Proteins & Veg

• 2.0 lbs Ground Beef (80/20)

• 1.0 large Green Cabbage head

• 1.0 cup White Rice (par-boiled)

• 1.5 cups Onion (finely chopped)

• 4.0 Garlic cloves (minced)

• Sauce & Spices

• 2.5 cups Tomato Sauce

• 0.5 cups Beef Stock

• 1.0 tbsp Brown Sugar

• 1.0 tsp Dried Thyme

• Salt and Pepper to taste

Directions

• Start by preparing your cabbage leaves so they are soft and ready to hold the meat. Mix your beef with the par-boiled rice and plenty of seasonings.
• Spoon the mixture into each leaf, roll tightly like a burrito, and place them snuggly in a pan. Pour over your rich tomato sauce and bake until everything is tender and bubbling.
• Core the cabbage and steam or boil for 5.0 minutes to separate the leaves easily.
• Combine ground beef, onions, garlic, par-boiled rice, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl. Place meat mixture (about 2.5 tablespoons) onto the base of each cabbage leaf.
• Roll the leaf tightly, folding in the sides as you go to seal the beef inside. Arrange the rolls in a single layer in a deep 9×13 baking dish, seam-side down. Mix tomato sauce, stock, sugar, and thyme in a separate bowl until smooth.
• Pour sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls, ensuring each one is well-coated. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F for 75.0 minutes, removing the foil for the last 15.0 minutes.

Notes

• Use 80/20 beef for the best flavor; 90/10 can become too dry inside the rolls.
• If you have leftover cabbage, chop it up and place it at the bottom of the baking dish for extra texture.
• Freeze leftover sauce to use as a base for cabbage soup later in the week!

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Kitchen Wins: Prep Secrets

To avoid a chaotic kitchen, preparation is your best friend. This cabbage rolls recipe requires a bit of technique, but prepping ahead makes it seamless. Start by handling the cabbage correctly. Many home cooks struggle with leaves tearing. My secret? Freeze the whole head of cabbage overnight and thaw it the next day. The leaves become perfectly pliable without the need for aggressive boiling. This simple trick saves time and frustration.

• Rice Readiness: Cook your rice until it is just slightly underdone. It will finish cooking inside the meat, soaking up all those delicious juices.
• Sauce Base: Mix your tomato sauce and seasonings in a jar the night before to let the flavors meld.
• Meat Mix: Combine your ground beef with aromatics early. This acts as a quick marinade for deeper flavor.

The Best Sidekicks for Your Meal

What you plate alongside this cabbage rolls recipe determines the overall vibe of your dinner. Since the rolls are quite substantial, I prefer sides that offer contrast. A heaping scoop of hash brown potatoes is the gold standard for soaking up extra sauce. If you want something lighter, a crisp cucumber salad with vinegar and dill cuts through the richness beautifully. Don’t forget a thick slice of rye bread to ensure not a single drop of tomato gravy goes to waste. A dollop of cool sour cream on top is non-negotiable for that authentic touch.

Troubleshooting Your Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Final Thoughts from My Kitchen to Yours

I truly hope this cabbage rolls recipe brings as much warmth and joy to your home as it does to mine. Transitioning to an all-beef filling creates a robust flavor that is hard to beat. This cabbage rolls recipe is a testament to the beauty of slow-cooked, traditional food. If you enjoyed this, stay tuned for my next post on slow-simmered beef stews and stuffed peppers. Remember, the best ingredient is always a little bit of patience. Don’t forget to share your photos of this cabbage rolls recipe with me on social media!