Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

 

Irresistible Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe – A Classic Comfort Dish

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are the ultimate comfort food—a perfect balance of savory ground meat, aromatic spices, and tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful filling and slow-baked in a rich tomato sauce. This dish has been a staple in many cultures, from Eastern Europe to the American South, offering a hearty, satisfying meal for generations. If you're looking for a meal that’s both wholesome and incredibly delicious, this is it!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty & Satisfying – Packed with juicy ground beef and pork, plus tender rice, this dish is filling and nutritious.

Rich, Comforting Flavors – A slow-baked tomato-based sauce infuses the cabbage rolls with deep, rich taste.

Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a big batch, and enjoy leftovers that taste even better the next day!

Traditional Yet Customizable – Adjust the seasonings or swap ingredients to suit your preferences.

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Ingredients & Their Role in the Dish

For the Cabbage Rolls:

1 medium head cabbage (about 3 pounds) – The star of the dish; cabbage leaves become perfectly tender when baked.

½ pound ground beef & ½ pound ground pork – This blend gives the filling a rich, meaty flavor with a juicy texture.

½ cup uncooked long-grain rice – Absorbs the cooking juices, adding heartiness and binding the filling together.

1 small onion, chopped – Adds a mild sweetness and depth of flavor.

1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes – Enhances the freshness of the filling.

½ teaspoon salt – Brings out the natural flavors.

½ teaspoon snipped fresh dill (or dried dill weed) – Adds a subtle herbaceous note.

⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper – Gives a slight kick without overpowering the dish.

For the Tomato Sauce:

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce – Forms the base of the rich, tangy sauce.

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained – Provides texture and extra depth of flavor.

½ teaspoon sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully place the whole cabbage head in the boiling water and cook for 2-3 minutes, just until the outer leaves start loosening.

2. Remove the cabbage and peel off 12 large leaves. Set them aside. If needed, return the cabbage to the water to soften more leaves.

2. Make the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, rice, chopped onion, parsley, salt, dill, cayenne, and ½ cup of the tomato sauce.

2. Mix everything together until evenly blended but do not overwork the meat.

3. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

1. Take a cabbage leaf and place ¼ cup of the meat mixture near the bottom.

2. Fold the cut ends of the leaf over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll tightly, like a burrito.

3. Repeat until all the filling is used.

4. Prepare the Sauce & Bake

1. Slice the remaining cabbage and place it at the bottom of a Dutch oven or baking dish.

2. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down on top of the sliced cabbage.

3. In a separate bowl, mix the diced tomatoes, sugar, and the remaining tomato sauce.

4. Pour the sauce over the cabbage rolls, ensuring they are well-covered.

5. Cover the dish with a lid or foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1½ hours, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

✔️ Soften the Cabbage Efficiently – If boiling seems too messy, freeze the cabbage overnight, then thaw. The leaves will soften naturally!

✔️ Use a Mix of Meats – A blend of beef and pork creates the best flavor and texture.

✔️ Don’t Skip the Resting Time – Let the rolls sit for 10 minutes after baking to allow the flavors to settle.

✔️ Make It Ahead – These rolls taste even better the next day, making them perfect for meal prep!

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Serving Suggestions

Pair your stuffed cabbage rolls with:

Mashed potatoes – For an extra dose of comfort.

Crusty bread – To soak up the rich tomato sauce.

Steamed vegetables – To balance the meal with freshness.

A side of sour cream – For a creamy, tangy contrast.

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Final Thoughts – Why You Need to Try This Recipe

These Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a true comfort food classic—tender, juicy, and packed with rich flavors. Whether you're cooking for family, meal prepping, or just craving something cozy, this dish delivers hearty satisfaction every time. Give it a try, and let 

us know how you love it!

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What’s Your Favorite Way to Make Cabbage Rolls?

Share your tips and variations in the comments below!