Classic Stuffed

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Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Baked in Rich Tomato Sauce)

Introduction

Stuffed cabbage rolls are one of the world’s most beloved comfort foods. Tender cabbage leaves are wrapped around a flavorful filling of seasoned ground meat and rice, then slowly baked in a rich tomato sauce until perfectly tender. Every bite is juicy, hearty, and full of homemade goodness. This timeless dish is popular across Europe, the Middle East, and many other regions, making it a true family favorite.

History

Stuffed cabbage has been enjoyed for hundreds of years. Variations appear in Polish, Romanian, Hungarian, Ukrainian, Turkish, Lebanese, and many other cuisines. Each culture has its own special seasonings and cooking methods, but the basic idea remains the same: cabbage leaves wrapped around a delicious filling and slowly cooked until tender.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 35 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
  • Servings: 6–8 people
  • Difficulty: Medium

Ingredients

For the Cabbage

  • 1 large green cabbage
  • Water for boiling
  • 1 teaspoon salt

For the Filling

  • 1½ pounds (700g) ground beef
  • ½ pound (225g) ground pork
  • 1 cup cooked white rice
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon thyme
  • ½ teaspoon oregano

For the Tomato Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cans crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Sharp knife
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking dish
  • Aluminum foil
  • Wooden spoon

Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Cabbage

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

Remove the cabbage core carefully.

Place the cabbage into boiling water for 5–8 minutes.

Peel off softened leaves one at a time.

Continue until you have about 16–20 leaves.

Trim the thick stem from each leaf.

Step 2 – Make the Filling

In a large bowl combine:

  • Ground beef
  • Ground pork
  • Cooked rice
  • Onion
  • Garlic
  • Egg
  • Parsley
  • Paprika
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Thyme
  • Oregano

Mix gently until just combined.

Do not overmix.

Step 3 – Prepare the Sauce

Heat olive oil.

Cook onions until soft.

Add garlic.

Stir in:

  • Crushed tomatoes
  • Tomato paste
  • Beef broth
  • Worcestershire sauce
  • Paprika
  • Italian seasoning

Simmer for 15 minutes.

Step 4 – Roll the Cabbage

Place one cabbage leaf flat.

Add about 2 tablespoons filling.

Fold both sides inward.

Roll tightly.

Repeat until all filling is used.

Step 5 – Assemble

Spread tomato sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.

Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down.

Cover with remaining sauce.

Cover tightly with foil.

Step 6 – Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 90 minutes.

Remove foil during the last 15 minutes for a lightly browned top.

Allow to rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Cooking Methods

Traditional Oven Method

Bake slowly in tomato sauce until tender.

Dutch Oven Method

Cook covered over low heat for about 2 hours.

Slow Cooker Method

Cook:

  • Low: 7–8 hours
  • High: 4–5 hours

Instant Pot Method

Pressure cook for about 25 minutes with a natural pressure release.

Chef’s Tips

  • Freeze the cabbage overnight instead of boiling for softer leaves.
  • Use freshly cooked rice for the best texture.
  • Don’t overfill the cabbage leaves.
  • Let the rolls rest before serving.
  • The flavor is even better the next day.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

  • Mashed potatoes
  • Buttered bread
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Fresh salad
  • Sour cream
  • Fresh parsley

Storage

  • Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.

Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)

  • Calories: 420
  • Protein: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fat: 24g
  • Fiber: 5g

Why People Love This Recipe ❤️

Food lovers enjoy stuffed cabbage rolls because they are:

  • Rich and comforting
  • Full of savory flavor
  • Perfect for family dinners
  • Great for meal prep
  • Budget-friendly
  • Easy to freeze and reheat
  • A traditional recipe passed down through generations

Conclusion

Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are the ultimate comfort food. Tender cabbage wrapped around a flavorful meat and rice filling, baked slowly in a rich tomato sauce, creates a meal that is hearty, satisfying, and unforgettable. Whether you’re making them for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering, this timeless recipe is sure to become a favorite that everyone will ask for again and again.

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