Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe: A Classic Comfort Food Delight
There’s something incredibly comforting about Stuffed Cabbage Rolls—a timeless dish that combines hearty meat, aromatic rice, and tender cabbage wrapped up in a flavorful tomato sauce. This dish is beloved by many for its balance of flavors, satisfying texture, and the nostalgic warmth it brings to the table. Whether you’re craving a classic family recipe or looking to impress guests with something a little more unique, Stuffed Cabbage Rolls never fail to deliver.
These delicious little bundles of joy are perfect for both special occasions and cozy weeknight dinners. They’re the kind of dish that gets better with every bite, with layers of rich flavors in every roll. If you’re wondering whether this classic recipe is worth trying, the answer is yes—it’s a dish you’ll want to make again and again!
Ingredients (and why each one is important):
1 medium head of cabbage (about 3 pounds): The cabbage serves as the perfect vehicle for wrapping up the flavorful stuffing, and when cooked just right, it adds a soft yet slightly chewy texture that balances the richness of the filling.
1/2 pound uncooked ground beef: Ground beef provides a savory, hearty flavor and texture that forms the base of the stuffing mixture.
1/2 pound uncooked ground pork: The addition of pork gives the stuffing a juicy richness and enhances the overall flavor profile.
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce: Tomato sauce brings a smooth, tangy element to the dish and helps create the base of the savory cooking sauce that envelopes the cabbage rolls as they cook.
1 small onion, chopped: The onion adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the stuffing, contributing to the overall savory profile of the dish.
1/2 cup uncooked long-grain rice: Rice is a key ingredient in the filling, soaking up the flavors of the meat and sauce while adding texture and bulk to the rolls.
1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes: Parsley gives a fresh, herbal note that complements the richness of the meat and adds color to the dish.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Salt is essential for balancing the flavors and enhancing the savory elements of the meat and sauce.
1/2 teaspoon snipped fresh dill or dill weed: Dill adds a light, refreshing, and slightly tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the cabbage and meat, making the rolls feel fresh and vibrant.
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper: A subtle dash of cayenne provides just enough heat to give the dish a little kick without overpowering the other flavors.
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained: Diced tomatoes add acidity, texture, and flavor to the sauce that will simmer the cabbage rolls, creating a flavorful bath that keeps the rolls moist.
1/2 teaspoon sugar: A touch of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes and enhances the natural sweetness of the cabbage and tomato sauce.
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Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
1. Prepare the cabbage leaves: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully place the whole head of cabbage into the water and cook just until the outer leaves begin to pull away easily from the head. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once the cabbage is soft enough to separate the leaves, remove it from the water and set it aside to cool slightly. Carefully peel off 12 large leaves for your rolls, making sure to preserve the tender edges for wrapping.
2. Make the filling: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, 1/2 cup tomato sauce, chopped onion, uncooked rice, dried parsley, salt, dill, and cayenne pepper. Mix everything together well, ensuring that the rice is evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture.
3. Prepare the cabbage leaves: Cut out the thick vein from the bottom of each cabbage leaf by making a V-shaped cut. This will make the leaves easier to roll. Lay each cabbage leaf flat on a work surface.
4. Stuff the cabbage rolls: Place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture in the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold in the sides and then carefully roll up the leaf from the cut end, enclosing the filling inside. Be sure to roll them tightly but not too tight, as the rice will expand as it cooks.
5. Assemble the rolls: Slice the remaining cabbage and place it in the bottom of a Dutch oven or large pot. This will create a flavorful bed for the cabbage rolls to cook on. Arrange the rolls seam side down over the cabbage in the pot. It’s important to pack them tightly so they stay intact while cooking.
6. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, remaining tomato sauce, and sugar. Pour this sauce over the cabbage rolls, making sure the rolls are well covered.
7. Cook the rolls: Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cook the cabbage rolls for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours, turning the rolls occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and soak up the sauce.
8. Serve and enjoy: Once the cabbage rolls are tender and cooked through, they’re ready to serve. Let them rest for a few minutes before plating. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread and a dollop of sour cream for an extra layer of richness.
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Pro Tips for Perfecting Your Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Pre-cook the rice: If you want the rice to cook more evenly, you can lightly cook it before mixing it into the meat filling. This will ensure the rice doesn’t absorb too much liquid from the sauce and remains tender.
Freeze for later: Stuffed cabbage rolls freeze exceptionally well. After assembling them, simply wrap them tightly and freeze. When you’re ready to eat, defrost and cook them in the sauce as directed.
Boost the flavor: To take the dish up a notch, you can add smoked paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture for added depth and richness.
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Serving Suggestions to Complete the Meal
These Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are perfect for a cozy meal served with a few classic sides. Consider pairing them with:
Mashed potatoes or roasted potatoes for a filling and comforting side dish.
Steamed vegetables, like carrots or green beans, for a fresh contrast to the richness of the rolls.
A side of sour cream or Greek yogurt to balance the flavors with its creamy tang.
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Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Stuffed cabbage rolls are the perfect combination of comforting flavors and hearty ingredients. With tender cabbage, savory meat, and perfectly seasoned rice, all simmered in a tangy tomato sauce, these rolls are a true comfort food classic. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a family dinner, this recipe offers a satisfying, flavorful meal that’s easy to make and always delicious. Don’t hesitate—give these Stuffed Cabbage Rolls a try today, and enjoy a dish that brings warmth and joy to your table with every bite!
