ADVERTISEMENT
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe: A Hearty and Flavorful Classic
Stuffed cabbage rolls, a beloved comfort food, are a dish that has stood the test of time across cultures and generations. Whether served during holiday feasts or as a weeknight dinner, these tender cabbage rolls stuffed with a savory filling are sure to warm you up from the inside out. Filled with a hearty combination of ground meat, rice, and seasonings, then gently simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce, stuffed cabbage rolls are the epitome of home-cooked goodness.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making these delicious cabbage rolls from scratch. Whether you’re making them for the first time or have been enjoying this dish for years, our recipe will show you how to create perfectly tender and flavorful stuffed cabbage rolls every time.
Why You’ll Love Stuffed Cabbage Rolls:
- Comfort Food at Its Best: There’s something so comforting about a warm dish of stuffed cabbage rolls. The blend of juicy ground meat, soft rice, and tender cabbage wrapped in a tangy tomato sauce is the perfect combination.
- Great for Meal Prep: These rolls freeze well, making them an excellent choice for meal prepping. You can make a big batch and store them for later, enjoying them whenever you need a quick, satisfying meal.
- Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to mix and match the ingredients based on your preferences. You can use ground beef, pork, turkey, or even a vegetarian filling if you prefer. Add extra herbs or seasonings to create a unique twist.
- Perfect for Special Occasions or Weeknight Dinners: While stuffed cabbage rolls are often associated with special occasions, they’re easy enough to prepare for any night of the week. Whether you’re serving them for a family gathering or a cozy dinner for two, they always hit the spot.
Ingredients for Stuffed Cabbage Rolls:
- 1 large head of cabbage (make sure to choose a firm, large cabbage with outer leaves intact)
- 1 lb ground beef (you can also use pork, turkey, or a mix of meats)
- 1/2 cup uncooked white rice (or brown rice for a healthier twist)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg (helps bind the filling)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon sugar (balances the acidity of the tomato sauce)
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme