Stuffed Cabbage Rolls on a Vegetable Bed

If you’re craving a dish that’s hearty, wholesome, and packed with flavor, these Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are just the thing. Tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory blend of ground meat, rice, and spices, all nestled on a bed of roasted vegetables and bathed in a rich tomato sauce—this is comfort food done right.

Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or a cozy night in, this recipe brings together nourishing ingredients and soul-warming flavor in one beautiful bake.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 6–8)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Preheat the Oven

• Set oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Lightly grease a large baking dish or casserole pan.

2️⃣ Soften the Cabbage

• Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
• Submerge the whole cabbage for 5–7 minutes, until outer leaves soften.
• Peel off softened leaves and set aside. Repeat until you have 8–10 leaves.

3️⃣ Make the Filling

• In a bowl, mix ground meat, rice, onion, garlic, egg (if using), paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.

4️⃣ Roll the Cabbage

• Lay a cabbage leaf flat. Add 2–3 tablespoons of filling to the center.
• Fold sides over and roll tightly like a burrito.
• Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

5️⃣ Prep the Veggie Bed

• Toss carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, and onion with olive oil and seasonings.
• Spread evenly across the bottom of your baking dish.

6️⃣ Assemble & Bake

• Place cabbage rolls on top of the vegetable bed.
• In a bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients.
• Pour sauce evenly over the rolls and veggies.
• Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45–50 minutes.
• Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes, until rolls are tender and sauce is bubbling.

7️⃣ Serve & Enjoy

• Let cool slightly before serving.
• Spoon roasted veggies and sauce alongside each roll.
• Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.