Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

 Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Hearty, Homey, and Bursting with Comfort

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🍽️ Why These Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Are Totally Irresistible

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a beloved comfort food with roots in many cultures, from Eastern Europe to the Middle East. This classic stuffed cabbage rolls recipe delivers everything you crave in a soul-warming dish—tender cabbage leaves filled with savory ground meat and rice, simmered in a tangy-sweet tomato sauce until meltingly soft. Each bite offers a rich harmony of flavors and textures that make this recipe a staple for family dinners, holidays, or cozy Sunday meals.

Whether you're new to making cabbage rolls or a seasoned home cook, this easy stuffed cabbage roll recipe is the one you'll come back to time and again. Let's get rolling!

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🛒 Ingredients (with Purpose)

Here’s what you’ll need for this cabbage rolls recipe and why each ingredient matters:

1 medium head of cabbage (about 3 pounds) – The star of the dish. Use green cabbage; its leaves are flexible and ideal for stuffing.

1/2 pound uncooked ground beef – Brings rich, hearty flavor and protein to the filling.

1/2 pound uncooked ground pork – Adds juiciness and flavor complexity. Blending pork with beef creates the perfect meaty texture.

1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the savory elements in the filling.

1/2 teaspoon snipped fresh dill or dried dill weed – Adds a subtle herby brightness that lifts the dish.

1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper – Just enough heat to add warmth without overwhelming the flavors.

1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained – Forms the base of the tomato sauce, offering acidity and freshness.

1/2 teaspoon sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes with a touch of sweetness.

1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce – Smooths out the sauce, making it rich and cohesive.

1/2 cup uncooked white rice (optional, but traditional) – A filler that soaks up the juices and adds body to the meat mixture.

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👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Cabbage Rolls

1. Prep the Cabbage Leaves

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully place the whole cabbage head into the boiling water.

Boil just until the outer leaves soften and pull away easily from the head. This usually takes about 2–3 minutes per layer.

Remove 12 large leaves and set them aside to cool.

Pro Tip: Slice off the thick rib at the base of each leaf to make it easier to roll.

2. Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine:

Ground beef

Ground pork

Salt

Dill

Cayenne pepper

Uncooked rice (if using)

Mix until just combined—don’t overmix or the rolls will be dense.

3. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

Lay a cabbage leaf flat. Place about 2–3 tablespoons of the filling in the center.

Fold in the sides, then roll from the base up to form a tight roll.

Repeat with all 12 leaves.

4. Prepare the Dutch Oven

Slice the remaining unused cabbage and spread it across the bottom of a Dutch oven or large baking dish. This prevents burning and adds extra flavor.

Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down on the bed of sliced cabbage.

5. Make the Sauce

In a bowl, mix together:

Diced tomatoes (with juice)

Tomato sauce

Sugar

Pour this mixture evenly over the cabbage rolls.

6. Bake the Rolls

Cover tightly with a lid or foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5 hours, or until the rolls are tender and the filling is fully cooked.

Pro Tip: Let the rolls rest for 10 minutes before serving so the juices redistribute.

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🧑‍🍳 Why This Cabbage Roll Recipe is a Family Favorite

Flavorful Filling: The combo of beef and pork creates a juicy, satisfying texture.

Tried-and-True Sauce: Balanced with acid and sweetness, it clings beautifully to the cabbage.

Make-Ahead Friendly: You can assemble these the day before and bake when ready.

Freezer-Friendly: Freeze uncooked or cooked rolls for a quick meal down the line.

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🍷 Serving Suggestions

Complete your meal with these cozy accompaniments:

Creamy mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles to soak up the sauce

Crusty bread or garlic rolls for extra carb comfort

A crisp cucumber salad or tangy coleslaw to balance the richness

A glass of dry red wine like Merlot or Cabernet for an elegant touch

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🔚 Conclusion: A Classic Dish, Made Simple

These easy stuffed cabbage rolls are the kind of recipe that brings people together around the table. Whether you’re honoring a family tradition or trying something new, this dish delivers comfort, flavor, and heart in every bite.

With simple ingredients, clear steps, and foolproof tips, this recipe proves that delicious doesn’t have to be complicated. Add this to your regular dinner rotation or save it for your next special occasion—it never disappoints.

Make it once, and you'll see why these cabbage rolls are truly unforgettable.

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👉 Ready to make the best stu

ffed cabbage rolls of your life? Bookmark this page, share it with fellow comfort food lovers, and start prepping—your kitchen is about to smell amazing.