I remember chilly autumn evenings, the kind where a warm meal just feels right, when the aroma of simmering tomatoes and savory meat filled our kitchen. My kids, even my pickiest eater, would eagerly await dinner. This Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe isn’t just food; it’s a hug from the inside out, a dish that brings back memories and creates new ones.
It’s a timeless favorite, a true comfort food that consistently satisfies. So often, we rush through life, but taking the time to prepare this delicious Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe truly nourishes the soul. You’ll find this Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe surprisingly simple, yet incredibly rewarding. My family always requests this specific Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe.
Table of Contents
Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
This Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe isn’t just food; it’s a hug from the inside out, a dish that brings back memories and creates new ones. It’s a timeless favorite, a true comfort food that consistently satisfies. You’ll find this recipe surprisingly simple, yet incredibly rewarding.
Ingredients
1 head Large green cabbage
1.5 lbs Ground beef (80/20)
1 cup Cooked white rice
1 medium Onion, finely chopped
1 large Egg
2 (15 oz) cans Tomato sauce
1 (14.5 oz) can Diced tomatoes
2 tablespoons Brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon Garlic powder
1 teaspoon Salt
½ teaspoon Black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage: Carefully remove the core from the cabbage. Boil the whole head in a large pot of salted water for 10-15 minutes until leaves soften. Peel off softened leaves. Trim the thick rib from each leaf. You need about 12-15 usable leaves
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well by hand
- Assemble the Rolls: Lay a cabbage leaf flat. Place about ¼ cup of meat mixture near the stem end. Fold in the sides, then roll tightly from the bottom up. Repeat for all leaves and filling
- Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce
- Bake: Pour half the sauce into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls
- Cook: Cover the dish with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, or until the cabbage is very tender and the meat is cooked through
Notes
For easier leaf removal, freeze the cabbage overnight, then thaw; the leaves will separate effortlessly.
Do not overstuff your rolls; they might burst during cooking. Ensure you roll them tightly.
Use a Dutch oven for a slower, more even cook, making them even more tender.
Always allow the rolls to rest for 10 minutes after baking; this helps them set.
Store leftover rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, freeze cooled rolls individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
This recipe can be assembled the day before and refrigerated, then baked when ready. It’s also suitable for a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Prep Time: 40 mins
- Cook Time: 90 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the recipe
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Sugar: 10 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: cabbage rolls, comfort food, ground beef, hearty, dinner, make-ahead, freezer-friendly
WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You’ll adore this Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe for many reasons. First, it offers incredible comfort and hearty flavor. Furthermore, this Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients.
It also makes fantastic leftovers, perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, mastering this Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe fills your home with an amazing aroma, making everyone happy. This particular Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe truly delivers on taste and simplicity.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED
Gather these fresh ingredients for your Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large green cabbage | 1 head |
| Ground beef (80/20) | 1.5 lbs |
| Cooked white rice | 1 cup |
| Onion, finely chopped | 1 medium |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Tomato sauce | 2 (15 oz) cans |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 (14.5 oz) can |
| Brown sugar | 2 tablespoons |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
SUBSTITUTIONS & VARIATIONS
You can easily adapt this Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe. Use ground turkey or a combination of beef and pork for the filling. For a vegetarian version, swap the meat with cooked lentils and mushrooms.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Instead of plain tomato sauce, try a marinara or even a creamy tomato soup for the topping. Some families include sauerkraut for a tangy twist on their Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe. Feel free to experiment with this Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe!
While you’re thinking about adapting this Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe, consider how versatile other classics can be. For another crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s easy to customize for any gathering, try our Classic Onion Dip.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
Making this Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe is straightforward.
1. Prepare the Cabbage: Carefully remove the core from the cabbage. Boil the whole head in a large pot of salted water for 10-15 minutes until leaves soften.
Peel off softened leaves. Trim the thick rib from each leaf. You need about 12-15 usable leaves for your Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe.
2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well by hand.
3. Assemble the Rolls: Lay a cabbage leaf flat. Place about ¼ cup of meat mixture near the stem end.
Fold in the sides, then roll tightly from the bottom up. Repeat for all leaves and filling for your delicious Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
5. Bake: Pour half the sauce into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls.
6. Cook: Cover the dish with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour and 30 minutes to 2 hours, or until the cabbage is very tender and the meat is cooked through. This ensures a perfect Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe every time.
PRO TIPS FOR SUCCESS
Achieving perfect Classic Cabbage Rolls is simple with these tips. For easier leaf removal, freeze the cabbage overnight, then thaw; the leaves will separate effortlessly. Do not overstuff your rolls; they might burst during cooking.
Use a Dutch oven for a slower, more even cook, making your Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe even more tender. Always allow the rolls to rest for 10 minutes after baking; this helps them set. Trust these tips for an exceptional Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe.
Applying these tips will ensure your Classic Cabbage Rolls are perfect every time, just like mastering any beloved comfort dish. For another fantastic classic that brings warmth and flavor to your breakfast table, don’t miss our Classic Breakfast Hashbrown Casserole.
STORAGE & REHEATING TIPS
Store leftover Classic Cabbage Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze cooled rolls individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Reheat refrigerated rolls in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Thaw frozen rolls overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. This Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe tastes even better the next day!
WHAT TO SERVE WITH THIS RECIPE
These Classic Cabbage Rolls pair beautifully with many sides. Serve them with creamy mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple green salad. A side of roasted root vegetables also complements this Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe wonderfully.
For dessert, consider apple pie or a light fruit salad. Enjoy your complete meal with this hearty Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe.
After enjoying such a hearty and satisfying main course, a delightful dessert truly completes the meal. For a sweet and elegant finish that’s perfect for any occasion, consider our Cranberry Pistachio Shortbread Cookies.
FAQS
Can I make Classic Cabbage Rolls ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the rolls and sauce the day before, then cover and refrigerate. Bake them as directed when ready. This Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe is perfect for meal prep.
What if I don’t have time to boil the cabbage?
Try freezing and thawing the cabbage! This softens the leaves and makes them easy to work with for your Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe.
How do I prevent my cabbage rolls from falling apart?
Ensure you roll them tightly. Also, bake them seam-side down. This simple trick secures your Classic Cabbage Rolls.
Can I make this Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, layer the rolls and sauce in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe adapts well.
Cabbage rolls are a traditional dish found in many cultures across Eastern Europe, the Balkans, and beyond, with countless regional variations. Typically, they consist of blanched cabbage leaves wrapped around a filling of seasoned ground meat and rice, simmered in a tomato-based sauce, showcasing the diverse culinary heritage of the cabbage roll.
NUTRITION INFORMATION (PER SERVING)
(Estimates based on 6 servings for the Classic Cabbage Rolls Recipe)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugars | 10 g |