Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Introduction
Classic cabbage rolls are a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling of ground meat and rice. Baked in tomato sauce, this timeless recipe brings warmth to any meal.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage
- 1 pound ground meat (beef, pork, or a mix)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 2 cups tomato sauce
Instructions
- Step 1: Carefully separate the cabbage leaves and blanch them in boiling water for 2–3 minutes until soft and pliable. Drain and set aside to cool.
- Step 2: In a bowl, combine the ground meat and cooked rice, mixing until well blended.
- Step 3: Lay each cabbage leaf flat and place a portion of the meat and rice mixture in the center. Fold in the sides and roll the leaf tightly to enclose the filling.
- Step 4: Arrange the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls.
- Step 5: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add chopped onions and garlic to the meat mixture before stuffing.
- Mix in herbs such as dill, parsley, or thyme into the filling for a fresh touch.
- Use a slow cooker to cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off approach.
- Try swapping tomato sauce with a mix of tomato paste and broth for a richer sauce.
Storage
Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use different types of meat?
Yes, you can use beef, pork, chicken, turkey, or a combination based on your preference to customize the flavor and texture.
Do I have to cook the rice before stuffing?
Yes, it’s important to use cooked rice so that the filling cooks evenly and the rice isn’t hard inside the rolls.
PrintClassic Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Classic Cabbage Rolls are a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a savory mixture of ground meat and rice, all baked in a rich tomato sauce until perfectly tender. This timeless recipe delivers a satisfying blend of flavors and textures, making it a beloved meal for family dinners or special occasions.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients
Cabbage Rolls
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 lb (450 g) ground meat (beef, pork, or a combination)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg (optional, for binding)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
Tomato Sauce
- 2 cups tomato sauce (homemade or canned)
- 1 cup water or broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage: Core the cabbage and carefully separate the leaves. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until pliable. Drain and set aside to cool.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg (if using), paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.
- Stuff the Leaves: Place about 2 tablespoons of filling in the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly to enclose the stuffing securely.
- Arrange in Baking Dish: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam side down in a single layer, packing them snugly.
- Cover with Sauce: Pour the remaining tomato sauce mixed with water or broth evenly over the cabbage rolls, ensuring they are well covered.
- Bake the Rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the meat is cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve the cabbage rolls hot, spooning some sauce over the top.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, you can sauté the onion and garlic before adding them to the filling.
- Using a combination of beef and pork in the filling can add extra juiciness and depth of flavor.
- If you prefer softer rolls, increase the baking time slightly and keep them covered to retain moisture.
- Stuffed cabbage rolls can be prepared ahead and refrigerated or frozen; bake when ready.
- Serve with sour cream or crusty bread for a complete meal.
Keywords: cabbage rolls, stuffed cabbage, ground meat, rice, tomato sauce, classic recipe, baked cabbage rolls
