These Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are the ultimate homemade comfort meal — tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful filling of seasoned ground beef, rice, onion, garlic, and herbs, then slowly baked in a rich tomato sauce until everything becomes incredibly tender and full of flavor.
This classic recipe has been loved for generations because it’s simple, hearty, and perfect for family dinners, holidays, or cozy weekends. The slow cooking allows the cabbage to soften while the savory meat filling absorbs all the delicious tomato flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic comfort food loved for generations
- Slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce
- Packed with flavorful beef and rice filling
- Perfect family dinner recipe
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 2 large heads of cabbage
- 2 lbs ground beef
- 3 cups cooked rice
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- Extra cabbage leaves for lining the baking dish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully place one cabbage head into the boiling water.
As the outer leaves soften, gently peel them away one at a time and set them aside.
Using a sharp knife, trim the thick stem part from each cabbage leaf so they become easier to roll.
Repeat with the remaining cabbage.
2. Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine:
- Ground beef
- Cooked rice
- Egg
- Garlic
- Parsley
- Onion
- Salt and pepper
Mix everything together until well combined.
The rice helps keep the filling tender, while the herbs and seasonings add a delicious homemade flavor.
3. Roll the Cabbage Leaves
Place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface.
Add a small portion of the meat mixture near the bottom of the leaf.
Fold in the sides and roll tightly like a small burrito, making sure the seam is placed underneath.
Repeat until all filling is used.
4. Prepare the Baking Dish
Spread a little tomato sauce on the bottom of a casserole dish.
Add a few extra cabbage leaves on top of the sauce to prevent the rolls from sticking or burning during baking.
Arrange the cabbage rolls tightly in the dish.
5. Add the Tomato Sauce
Pour the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls.
Make sure the rolls are well covered so they stay moist while cooking.
6. Slow Bake Until Tender
Cover the dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 75 minutes.
Then reduce the temperature to 325°F (165°C) and continue baking for another 90 minutes, until the cabbage is very tender and the filling is fully cooked.
For the best flavor, spoon some of the tomato sauce over the rolls occasionally while they bake.
Serving Suggestions
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