Transform simple ingredients into a cozy, heartwarming meal with these tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory meat and rice filling, all topped with a sweet-tangy tomato sauce and melty cheese.
THE PERFECT COMFORT FOOD
There’s something magical about cabbage rolls – they’re like edible packages of comfort! This recipe strikes the perfect balance between hearty filling, tender cabbage, and a perfectly seasoned sauce that brings everything together.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Can I make these ahead?
Yes! You can prepare the rolls a day ahead and refrigerate them unbaked. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
How do I prevent the cabbage from tearing?
Make sure to blanch the leaves until they’re pliable but not too soft. Also, remove the thick center rib to make rolling easier.
Can I freeze these?
Absolutely! They freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
TIPS FOR SUCCESS:
- Core cabbage before blanching for easier leaf removal
- Don’t overstuff the leaves – they should roll easily
- Place seam-side down in baking dish
- Cover tightly with foil for tender cabbage
- Let rest 10 minutes before serving
- Save extra sauce for serving
CLASSIC COMFORT CABBAGE ROLLS
These hearty cabbage rolls combine seasoned meat, tender rice, and a perfectly balanced tomato sauce for the ultimate comfort food experience.
Course: Main Dish Cuisine: Eastern European Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 1 hour Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes Servings: 6
INGREDIENTS
For the Rolls:
- 1 large head cabbage (about 9 large leaves)
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese of choice
For the Sauce:
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
INSTRUCTIONS
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
- Core cabbage and blanch leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until pliable. Drain and cool.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, rice, onion, garlic, milk, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Mix sauce ingredients in a separate bowl until well combined.
- Remove thick center rib from each cabbage leaf.
- Place about 1/3 cup meat mixture on each leaf. Fold sides in and roll up.
- Arrange rolls seam-side down in baking dish.
- Pour sauce evenly over rolls.
- Cover tightly with foil and bake 45 minutes.
- Uncover, top with cheese, and bake 10-15 minutes more until cheese melts.
RECIPE NOTES
- Make Ahead: Prepare up to 24 hours in advance
- Storage: Keeps 3-4 days refrigerated
- Freezing: Freeze up to 3 months before baking
- Variations: Try ground turkey or pork
- Serving: Great with mashed potatoes or crusty bread
- Extra Tips: Keep extra sauce for serving
NUTRITION Calories: 320 Protein: 25g Carbohydrates: 18g Fat: 16g Fiber: 3g Sodium: 650mg