Easy Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Description

Easy Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a comforting classic made with tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful filling of seasoned ground meat, rice, and herbs, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This hearty dish is filling, cozy, and perfect for family dinners or meal prep. The cabbage becomes soft and delicious while soaking up all the savory flavors.

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls

• 1 large green cabbage
• 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Sauce

• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar or honey
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove cabbage leaves and boil them for 2–3 minutes until softened. Drain and let cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Place a scoop of filling onto each cabbage leaf. Fold in the sides and roll tightly.
4. In a bowl, mix tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Spread a little sauce on the bottom of a baking dish or pot. Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down.
6. Pour remaining sauce over the rolls. Cover with foil or a lid.
7. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45–55 minutes, or simmer on the stovetop for about 40 minutes until cooked through.
8. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips

• Freeze extra cabbage leaves in case some tear while rolling.
• Add shredded carrots or chopped mushrooms to the filling for extra vegetables.
• Use cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version.
• Serve with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Q&A

Q1: Can I make cabbage rolls ahead of time?

Yes, they taste even better the next day after the flavors blend together.

Q2: How do I soften cabbage leaves easily?

Freezing the whole cabbage overnight and thawing it helps soften the leaves naturally.

Q3: Can I use another meat?

Yes, ground chicken, turkey, pork, or sausage all work well.

Q4: Can stuffed cabbage rolls be frozen?

Absolutely. Freeze before or after cooking in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

Q5: What sauce works best?

Classic tomato sauce is most popular, but creamy tomato or spicy marinara also taste great.