Cabbage rolls are one of those dishes that just scream comfort, don’t you think? There’s something so hearty and satisfying about tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory mixture of meat and rice. I remember my grandma making them every Sunday for our family gatherings, filling the kitchen with that amazing aroma that made everyone’s mouth water. This recipe is a special twist on her traditional version, and I can’t wait to share it with you! Trust me, once you try these cabbage rolls, they’ll quickly become a staple at your dinner table, perfect for feeding a crowd or just enjoying a cozy night in.

Ingredients List

Gathering your ingredients is super important for making delicious cabbage rolls, so let’s make sure you have everything you need. Here’s what you’ll require:

1 large head of cabbage: Look for a firm head, as fresh cabbage will give you the best rolls.
1 pound ground beef: You can also use ground turkey or pork if you prefer!
1 cup cooked rice: Any type works, but I love using white or brown rice for that hearty texture.
1 onion, chopped: Dice it up finely so it blends well with the meat mixture.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds amazing flavor—don’t skip this!
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce: This will create a lovely base sauce over your rolls.
1 teaspoon salt: Adjust to taste, but this helps bring out all the flavors.
1 teaspoon pepper: Freshly cracked is best for that extra kick!
1 teaspoon paprika: A little smokiness goes a long way in enhancing the flavor.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the onion and garlic; it adds a nice richness.

These ingredients are pretty straightforward to find, and I bet you’ll have most of them already in your kitchen! Make sure to pre-cook your rice before you start so everything comes together smoothly. Happy cooking!

How to Prepare Cabbage Rolls

Now, let’s dive into preparing these delicious cabbage rolls! I promise, it’s easier than it sounds, and the results are so worth it. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a comforting dish that’s sure to impress.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is the perfect temperature for baking those rolls to perfection!
Blanch the cabbage leaves: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully peel off the outer leaves of the cabbage and place them in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes. You want them soft enough to roll without cracking, but not mushy!
Sauté the aromatics: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they’re translucent and fragrant—about 3-5 minutes. This step adds so much depth to your filling!
Mix the filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. I like to use my hands for this part—it’s the best way to get everything mixed well!
Assemble the rolls: Take a softened cabbage leaf, place a spoonful of the meat mixture at the base, and roll it up tightly, tucking in the sides like a burrito. Repeat this with all the leaves and filling.
Arrange in a baking dish: Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a greased baking dish. This helps them hold their shape while cooking.
Add the sauce: Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the rolls, ensuring they’re well covered. This keeps them moist and flavorful as they bake!
Bake covered with foil for 1 hour. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Don’t forget to remove the foil for the last 10 minutes if you want a little extra color on top!

And there you go! Once they’re done baking, let them cool for a few minutes before serving. Your kitchen will smell incredible, and I just know your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These cabbage rolls are not just any dish; they’re a comforting hug in food form! Here are a few reasons you’ll adore this recipe:

Hearty & Satisfying: Each roll is packed with a delicious filling that’s filling enough to keep you satisfied.
Simple Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip these up without any fuss, making them perfect for weeknight dinners.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the tender cabbage and savory meat; they’re a hit at the dinner table!
Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare them in advance and bake when you’re ready, perfect for busy days!
Customizable: Feel free to tweak the filling to suit your taste—add herbs, spices, or even different meats!

Trust me, once you take a bite, you’ll see why these cabbage rolls are a beloved classic!

Tips for Success

To make your cabbage rolls truly shine, here are some tips that I’ve picked up over the years:

Choose the right cabbage: Napa cabbage works wonderfully if you can find it; its leaves are more tender and easier to roll.
Don’t skip the blanching: Blanching the cabbage leaves makes them pliable—this step is crucial for preventing cracks when rolling!
Experiment with fillings: Feel free to mix things up! Try using ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian option with lentils and beans for a hearty twist.
Spice it up: Add your favorite herbs like dill or parsley to the meat mixture for extra flavor!
Check for doneness: Ensure the meat is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature; it should reach 160°F (71°C) for ground beef.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of cabbage rolls!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to switch up these cabbage rolls! Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:

Different meats: Swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even lamb for a unique flavor profile.
Vegetarian option: Use a mix of lentils, chopped mushrooms, and your favorite veggies for a satisfying meatless version.
Spicy twist: Add some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the filling for a little heat.
Herb-infused: Mix in fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or thyme to brighten up the flavors.
Rice substitutes: Try using quinoa or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option!

These variations will keep your cabbage rolls exciting and give you a chance to experiment in the kitchen!

Nutritional Information

Curious about the nutritional value of these delicious cabbage rolls? Here’s a rough estimate per roll:

Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Protein: 15g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 400mg

Keep in mind these numbers can vary based on your specific ingredients and portion sizes, but it gives you a good idea of what to expect. Enjoy this hearty meal without the guilt!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making these delicious cabbage rolls? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries:

Can I make cabbage rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls, place them in the baking dish, and cover them with foil. Just pop them in the fridge and bake when you’re ready. They’re perfect for meal prep!

What type of cabbage works best?
While green cabbage is traditional, I love using Napa cabbage for its tender leaves. It’s super easy to roll and has a lovely flavor!

How do I store leftover cabbage rolls?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze cabbage rolls?
Yes! Freeze them before baking. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking!

What can I serve with cabbage rolls?
These rolls pair beautifully with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Enjoy!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your leftover cabbage rolls is super easy! Just place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them before baking. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil, and they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw in the fridge overnight. For reheating, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave them for a quicker option. Just make sure they’re hot all the way to the center—nobody likes a cold cabbage roll!

Cabbage Rolls: 7 Comforting Secrets to Satisfy You

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Eastern European
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Cabbage rolls are a hearty dish made of cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of meat and rice.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch the cabbage leaves for 2-3 minutes until soft.
In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
In a bowl, mix ground beef, cooked rice, sautéed onion, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika.
Place a spoonful of the meat mixture on each cabbage leaf and roll tightly.
Place the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish.
Pour tomato sauce over the rolls.
Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour.

Notes

Use fresh cabbage for better texture.
Customize the filling with herbs and spices as desired.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 roll
Calories: 250
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keywords: cabbage rolls, stuffed cabbage, comfort food

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