Stuffed Cabbage Rolls – Classic, Hearty & Delicious

These comforting stuffed cabbage rolls are made with tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, rice, onion, and garlic, then gently simmered in a rich tomato sauce. They’re cozy, filling, and perfect for a family dinner.

🛒 Ingredients

Serves 6

• 1 large head green cabbage
• 1 lb ground beef, pork, or a combination
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the cabbage core and place the cabbage head into the water. Cook for 5–7 minutes, gently removing softened leaves as they loosen.
2. Make the filling: In a large bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until evenly combined.
3. Fill the leaves: Place about 2–3 tablespoons of filling in the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold the sides inward and roll tightly, like a small burrito.
4. Brown the rolls: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down and lightly brown them.
5. Add the sauce: Pour the tomato sauce and beef broth over the rolls. Bring everything to a gentle simmer.
6. Cook: Cover and simmer for 45–60 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the meat is completely cooked.
7. Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot with plenty of tomato sauce spooned over the top.

🥘 Slow Cooker Method

Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in your slow cooker, cover with tomato sauce and broth, then cook on LOW for 6–8 hours until tender.

💡 Tips for Perfect Cabbage Rolls

• Don’t overfill the leaves—they need room to expand.
• Trim the thick central rib slightly so the leaves roll easily.
• If a leaf tears, simply patch it with a small piece of another cabbage leaf.
• Leftovers are often even more flavorful the next day.
• For a low-carb version, replace the rice with cauliflower rice.

❤️ Serving Ideas

Serve these hearty rolls with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad.