Easy Cabbage Rolls Recipe

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cabbage rolls are the ultimate comfort food, and this recipe offers a simple yet delicious take on a timeless dish. With the combination of tender cabbage leaves, a savory filling of ground meat, rice, and spices, and a rich tomato sauce, every bite is packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or preparing a meal for a crowd, these cabbage rolls are sure to be a hit. Plus, they freeze well, making them a great make-ahead option for busy days.

Ingredients

1 head green cabbage
1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
1 pound ground meat of choice
½ pound lean ground beef
2 small yellow onions (diced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
½ teaspoon dried dill
3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
1 egg
1 ¾ cups tomato sauce (divided)
1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed tomato soup

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Cabbage: Boil cabbage leaves for about 2 minutes or until soft. Once softened, set the cabbage leaves aside to cool. Remove any tough stems from the cooked leaves.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
3. Cook the Rice: Cook the rice according to package directions, but reduce the cooking time by 5 minutes so the rice is slightly underdone. Set it aside.
4. Cook the Meat: In a skillet, cook the ground meat of choice, ground beef, onions, garlic, and seasonings over medium heat until no pink remains. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the rice, diced tomatoes, and ⅓ cup of tomato sauce. Add the egg and mix everything together.
5. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the remaining tomato sauce and the condensed tomato soup.
6. Assemble the Rolls: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce mixture on the bottom. Take a cabbage leaf, cut off the thick stem if necessary, and place about ¼ to ⅓ cup of the meat filling in the center. Fold in the sides of the leaf and roll it up tightly. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat this process with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
7. Bake: Pour the remaining tomato sauce mixture over the cabbage rolls, covering them completely. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil. Bake for 75 to 90 minutes until the rolls are tender.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the cabbage rolls cool for about 15 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 45 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with a mixture of cooked lentils and rice for a vegetarian version of cabbage rolls.
• Use Different Meats: You can use a combination of ground beef and ground turkey, or chicken for a lighter filling.
• Spicy Cabbage Rolls: Add a dash of red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili peppers to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
• Rice Alternatives: You can replace the white rice with brown rice or quinoa for a healthier variation.

Storage/Reheating

• Storing: You can store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
• Freezing: Cabbage rolls freeze beautifully. To freeze before baking, assemble the rolls and cover them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. To freeze after baking, allow the rolls to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply place the cabbage rolls in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 30 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but be sure to cover them to prevent them from drying out.

FAQs

How do I remove the cabbage leaves without tearing them?

To remove cabbage leaves, cut about ¼ inch off the bottom of the head and place the whole cabbage in boiling water. After boiling for about 2 minutes, the leaves should soften, allowing you to peel them off easily. Repeat the process until all leaves are removed.

Can I use ground chicken in this recipe?

Yes, ground chicken is a great substitute for beef in this recipe. It will give the rolls a lighter taste while still being flavorful.

How do I make sure my cabbage rolls don’t fall apart?

Make sure the cabbage leaves are soft enough to fold without tearing. When assembling, tightly roll the cabbage around the filling and place the rolls seam-side down in the pan. This will help them stay intact while baking.

Can I cook cabbage rolls in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can cook cabbage rolls in a slow cooker. After assembling the rolls, place them in the slow cooker with the sauce and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours.

Can I use cooked rice instead of uncooked rice?

It’s best to use uncooked rice for the cabbage rolls, as it will cook perfectly while the rolls bake. If using cooked rice, reduce the baking time slightly.

How can I make my cabbage rolls spicier?

To make your cabbage rolls spicier, simply add crushed red pepper flakes or fresh chopped chili peppers to the meat mixture.

Can I use different types of cabbage?

While green cabbage is traditional, you can also use Savoy cabbage, which has more tender, crinkly leaves. Just make sure to blanch the leaves first.

How can I prevent the cabbage leaves from being too tough?

Boiling the cabbage leaves in water for 2 minutes before rolling will make them soft and pliable, making them easier to fold and preventing them from being tough.

Can I freeze the filling separately?

Yes, you can freeze the filling separately and assemble the cabbage rolls later. Just store the filling in an airtight container or freezer bag, and it will last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

What can I serve with cabbage rolls?

Cabbage rolls pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, a side salad, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Conclusion

These Easy Cabbage Rolls are a true comfort food classic, filled with a savory meat mixture, rice, and topped with a rich tomato sauce. They are simple to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With the option to freeze and reheat, they make for a great make-ahead meal as well. Enjoy the warmth and heartiness of this dish, and feel free to get creative with the variations and serve it alongside your favorite sides!

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