Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Tender, Savory & Comforting Dinner Recipe 🥬

 

Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Tender, Savory & Comforting Dinner Recipe)






Few dishes say comfort food like a warm pan of stuffed cabbage rolls. Tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful blend of ground beef, rice, onions, and herbs, then slowly baked in a tangy tomato sauce — this old-fashioned classic never goes out of style.

Originating from Eastern Europe, stuffed cabbage rolls (also known as golabki, sarma, or holubtsi) are loved around the world for their heartiness and simplicity. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner, meal prep, or a special occasion, this dish delivers nostalgia and flavor in every bite.


🧺 Ingredients:

For the cabbage rolls:

  • 1 large head of green cabbage

  • 1 lb ground beef (or mix beef and pork)

  • 1 cup cooked white rice

  • 1 small onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 egg

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • ½ tsp dried thyme or dill (optional)

For the tomato sauce:

  • 2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes

  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

  • 1 cup beef broth

  • 1 tbsp brown sugar (balances acidity)

  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

  • Salt & pepper to taste


👩‍🍳 Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Cabbage:
    Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove 10–12 cabbage leaves and blanch them for about 2 minutes until soft. Drain and set aside to cool.

  2. Make the Filling:
    In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs. Mix gently until well combined.

  3. Assemble the Rolls:
    Place 2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold the sides over and roll tightly, tucking in edges to seal.

  4. Prepare the Sauce:
    In a saucepan, heat olive oil, add tomato paste, then stir in tomato sauce, broth, sugar, and seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.

  5. Bake:
    Arrange the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour sauce over the top, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 to 1½ hours until tender.

  6. Serve:
    Spoon extra sauce over the top and enjoy with mashed potatoes, sour cream, or crusty bread.


💡 Tips for Perfect Cabbage Rolls:

  • Freeze the cabbage head overnight before using — it softens the leaves naturally without boiling.

  • Use a mix of beef and pork for richer flavor.

  • Add a pinch of brown sugar or honey to the sauce for balance.

  • These rolls reheat beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep.


🍷 Serving Suggestions:

Serve your stuffed cabbage rolls with:

  • Mashed potatoes or buttered noodles

  • Steamed green beans or carrots

  • A dollop of sour cream for extra richness



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