Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe A : Hearty and Delicious Comfort Food

Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a timeless dish loved by many cultures worldwide. Whether it's the Polish Golabki, Ukrainian Holubtsi, or Jewish Holishkes, these delicious rolls are packed with flavor, filled with a savory meat and rice mixture, and simmered in a rich tomato sauce. If you’re looking for an easy yet satisfying meal that also works well for meal prep, stuffed cabbage rolls should be on your list.

In this article, we’ll guide you through an authentic recipe for making the best classic stuffed cabbage rolls, along with tips for perfecting the dish.

Why Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Are a Popular Choice

Stuffed cabbage rolls are an excellent meal choice for families because they are:

• Nutritious – High in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
• Affordable – Uses budget-friendly ingredients.
• Great for Meal Prep – Freezes well and reheats beautifully.
• Delicious & Comforting – The perfect blend of flavors in one dish.

Ingredients for Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

To make the best homemade stuffed cabbage rolls, you’ll need:

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 large head of cabbage (green or savoy)
• 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of pork and beef)
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Core the cabbage and place it in the boiling water for 3-5 minutes, or until the leaves soften.
3. Carefully peel off the softened leaves and set them aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

1. Lay a cabbage leaf flat and place a spoonful of the meat mixture in the center.
2. Fold in the sides and roll tightly like a burrito.
3. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

1. Pour a thin layer of tomato sauce into the bottom of a large baking dish or Dutch oven.
2. Arrange the cabbage rolls in a single layer.
3. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the rolls, covering them completely.
4. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5 to 2 hours.

Tips for the Best Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Use the Right Cabbage – Green cabbage works best for this dish, but savoy cabbage is a great alternative.
• Don’t Overfill the Rolls – Use a moderate amount of filling to ensure they don’t break apart.
• Make It in Advance – Stuffed cabbage rolls taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
• Try Different Proteins – Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner alternative.
• Add a Smoky Flavor – A dash of smoked paprika or bacon bits can elevate the taste.

Nutritional Benefits

Each serving of classic stuffed cabbage rolls provides:

• Protein – Essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Fiber – Supports digestive health.
• Vitamins C & K – Important for immunity and bone health.
• Iron & Zinc – Boosts metabolism and overall wellness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make stuffed cabbage rolls ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the rolls and refrigerate them overnight before baking. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months.

2. What should I serve with stuffed cabbage rolls?

Classic sides include mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a fresh green salad.

3. How do I reheat leftover cabbage rolls?

Reheat in the oven at 325°F for 20-30 minutes or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.

4. Can I make stuffed cabbage rolls in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Layer the rolls in a slow cooker, pour the sauce over them, and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Conclusion

Classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a comforting, hearty meal that brings families together. Whether you're making them for a holiday gathering or a cozy weeknight dinner, this traditional dish is sure to satisfy. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and incredible flavors, stuffed cabbage rolls are a must-try recipe for any home cook.

Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of tradition with every bite!