Stuffed cabbage rolls are a heartwarming dish that speaks volumes about comfort food. This Eastern European classic features tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mix of ground meat and rice, simmered to perfection in a rich tomato sauce. Each bite combines satisfying flavors and textures, making it an instant favorite around the dinner table. It’s not just a meal; it’s a nostalgic reminder of family gatherings and shared moments.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe | Easy healthy dinner
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls | Easy healthy dinner

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls | Easy healthy dinner

I first encountered stuffed cabbage rolls on a chilly evening, where the aroma wafted through the house, inviting everyone to come to the table. This easy healthy dinner is perfect for those lingering cravings, be it a cozy night in or a family feast. What’s more, this recipe serves up deliciousness without demanding hours in the kitchen. If you’re looking for a dish that’s both simple and full of flavor, you’re in the right place.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Just 25 minutes of prep and a comforting 85 minutes of cooking—easy enough for any weeknight!
Irresistible Flavor: Mouthwatering layers of beef, rice, and spices come together in a tender cabbage wrap that’s hard to resist.
Eye-Catching Appeal: These rolls look as delightful as they taste, making them perfect for family dinners or potlucks.
Flexible Serving: Whether as a cozy dinner, a fun party dish, or even meal prep for the week, it fits perfectly into any occasion.
Diet-Friendly Options: Customize with ground turkey or vegetarian meat substitutes for a family-friendly option.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 large head of cabbage: The star of the show! Choose a firm head with no blemishes for perfectly pliable leaves.
1 lb ground beef or pork (or a mix): Provides the meaty richness; go for lean meat if you want a healthier option.
1 cup cooked rice: Adds bulk and texture; you can use white, brown, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
1 medium onion, finely chopped: For aromatic depth; yellow onions work beautifully here.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant touch, making each bite delightful.
1 large egg: Acts as a binder to hold the filling together; feel free to use a flax egg as a vegan alternative.
1 tsp salt: Essential for enhancing flavors; adjust to taste based on your preference.
1/2 tsp black pepper: For a touch of warmth; freshly ground pepper elevates the flavor.
1 tsp paprika: Adds a slight sweetness and warmth—smoked paprika can take it to another level.
2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes: Provides a luscious and tangy sauce; homemade or store-bought is fine!
1 cup beef broth: Adds moisture and depth; vegetable broth works wonderfully for vegetarian options.
2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing and creating a crispy exterior.
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): A fresh finishing touch that brightens the whole dish.

How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe | Easy healthy dinner

Boil Cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to boil. With care, remove the core from the cabbage and gently place the whole head into the boiling water. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the leaves soften and can easily be peeled off. Once tender, remove the cabbage and allow it to cool slightly before separating the leaves.

Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef or pork, 1 cup cooked rice, 1 finely chopped medium onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 large egg, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp paprika. Mix everything until well combined, ensuring the ingredients are evenly distributed and the mixture feels cohesive.

Roll the Cabbage Leaves: On a flat surface, take a cabbage leaf and place 2 to 3 tablespoons of your filling in the center. Fold the sides inward and roll tightly, much like wrapping a burrito. Repeat for all the leaves, packing the filling snugly but not too tight to allow for expansion during cooking.

Sear the Rolls: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down onto the skillet and brown lightly on each side. This should take around 5-7 minutes and adds a lovely depth of flavor.

Simmer in Sauce: Pour 2 cups of tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes and 1 cup beef broth over the cabbage rolls. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat. Cover the skillet and allow the rolls to cook for 45 to 60 minutes, until tender and fully cooked through.

Garnish & Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the rolls and serve hot from the skillet. A sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley adds a delightful pop of color and flavor to finished dish. Enjoy each bite!

Storing & Reheating

If you have leftovers, let the cabbage rolls cool down to room temperature. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to three months—just place them in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, gently warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes until heated through, or microwave them for a quicker option. The flavors may deepen a bit, making them even tastier the next day!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the cabbage leaves; they should be pliable but not disintegrating.
Make sure the ground meat is as fresh as possible for best flavor.
Test a small cabbage roll by cooking it first to check seasonings before rolling the rest.
Prepare the filling a day in advance for an even more flavor-infused meal—just let it sit in the fridge overnight.
If you want a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the filling or sauce!

Stuffed cabbage rolls are delightful, bringing warmth and comfort with every bite. With their balance of juicy filling and tender cabbage, you’ll find this dish becoming a staple in your home. Don’t hesitate to play around with the filling or sauce to make this dish your own; a little customization can lead to a new favorite! Enjoy every wholesome, delicious moment spent savoring this traditional meal.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make stuffed cabbage rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls and store them in the fridge for up to a day or freeze them before cooking. Just ensure you have your sauce ready so you can bake them directly from frozen when you’re ready to eat.

What can I serve with stuffed cabbage rolls?

Stuffed cabbage rolls pair wonderfully with a side of crusty bread, a light salad, or creamy mashed potatoes. They’re also lovely with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of freshly grated cheese for added creaminess.

Can I use other meats for the filling?

Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meats are excellent alternatives. Adjust the seasoning as needed, and you might discover a new family favorite with a slight twist.

What type of sauce works best for cabbage rolls?

While the classic tomato sauce is the go-to, trying a mixture of tomato sauce with a touch of Worcestershire sauce or even barbecue sauce can give a different flavor profile. Experimentation is welcome!

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Stuffed Cabbage Rolls | Easy healthy dinner

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Author: Dorothy
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 85 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Dinner
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: International

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Description

These Stuffed Cabbage Rolls combine ground meat, rice, and a savory tomato sauce, creating a delightful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for a comforting dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

1 large head of cabbage
1 lb ground beef or pork (or a mix)
1 cup cooked rice
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
1 tsp salt
1/2 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 (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

Bring a large pot of water to boil, remove the cabbage core, and place the head in the water. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and then separate leaves.
In a large bowl, mix ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika until well combined.
Take 2–3 tablespoons of filling and place it in the center of each cabbage leaf, fold the sides in, and roll tightly, similar to a burrito.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Arrange rolls seam-side down and lightly brown on all sides.
Pour tomato sauce and beef broth over the cabbage rolls, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and cook for 45–60 minutes until fully cooked.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Ensure the cabbage leaves are softened for easy rolling.
Feel free to use a mix of ground meats for added flavor.
Can substitute rice with quinoa for a healthier option.