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CLASSIC COMFORT CABBAGE ROLLS





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

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13 baking dish.
  2. Core cabbage and blanch leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until pliable. Drain and cool.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, rice, onion, garlic, milk, egg, salt, and pepper.
  4. Mix sauce ingredients in a separate bowl until well combined.
  5. Remove thick center rib from each cabbage leaf.
  6. Place about 1/3 cup meat mixture on each leaf. Fold sides in and roll up.
  7. Arrange rolls seam-side down in baking dish.
  8. Pour sauce evenly over rolls.
  9. Cover tightly with foil and bake 45 minutes.
  10. 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



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