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Cabbage Rolls

Cabbage Rolls

Cabbage Rolls are a comforting, traditional dish made with tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling of ground meat, rice, onions, and herbs, then slowly simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Hearty and satisfying, this classic recipe is perfect for family dinners and make-ahead meals.
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Prep Time 25 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 55 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Eastern European
Servings 6
Calories 390 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large green cabbage
  • 1½ lbs ground beef or ground pork or a mix
  • 1 cup cooked white rice
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 can 28 oz crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon sugar optional
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup beef or chicken broth

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Carefully remove cabbage leaves and boil for 2–3 minutes until softened. Drain and cool.
  • In a bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley.
  • Place filling on each cabbage leaf, roll tightly, and tuck in sides.
  • Spread a small amount of tomato sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish or pot.
  • Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down.
  • Mix crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, olive oil, and broth. Pour over rolls.
  • Cover and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1½ hours or simmer gently on the stovetop.
  • Serve warm with extra sauce.
  • Notes
  • Freezer-friendly: Freeze cooked rolls up to 3 months.
  • Meat options: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Flavor boost: Add smoked paprika or fresh dill.
  • Make ahead: Assemble a day in advance and refrigerate.
  • Serving ideas: Serve with sour cream, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
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Notes

  • Freezer-friendly: Freeze cooked rolls up to 3 months.
  • Meat options: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
  • Flavor boost: Add smoked paprika or fresh dill.
  • Make ahead: Assemble a day in advance and refrigerate.
  • Serving ideas: Serve with sour cream, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Keyword Cabbage Rolls