Beef And Rice Cabbage Rolls

Name: Beef And Rice Cabbage Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large head of green cabbage; 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 2 cups tomato sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon sugar; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Homestyle Treats

Growing up, cabbage rolls were a staple in my home, and the joy they brought during family gatherings was unmatched. I remember watching my grandmother carefully roll the tender cabbage leaves filled with savory beef and rice. The aroma that filled our kitchen was simply irresistible. These cabbage rolls are not only hearty but also a comforting dish that brings warmth to any table. Cooking them slow allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a meal that everyone will love.

Created by

Sloane Patterson

Last updated on 2026-02-08T04:27:36.529Z

When I first made cabbage rolls on my own, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious they turned out. Using fresh cabbage leaves makes all the difference, as they become perfectly pliable without tearing. I find boiling the leaves briefly before wrapping the filling helps them stay intact during cooking. The combination of seasoned ground beef and fluffy rice creates a filling that is both hearty and flavorful.

Over the years, I’ve played around with spices and seasoning, finding that adding a pinch of smoked paprika elevates the overall taste. It’s a little tweak that I highly recommend. These cabbage rolls, baked in a savory tomato sauce, really embody comfort food at its finest, perfect for sharing with loved ones.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Savory blends of beef and herbs wrapped in tender cabbage leaves
A delightful mix of flavors with each bite
Perfectly baked in a tangy tomato sauce

Mastering the Cabbage Leaves

When preparing the cabbage leaves, it's essential to soften them so they are pliable without tearing. A good technique is to remove the core and immerse the whole head of cabbage in boiling salted water for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it prevents the leaves from cracking when you roll them. After boiling, care for the leaves by cooling them gently to avoid overcooking, which might make them mushy.

If you find the cabbage leaves aren’t easily removable, consider cutting out the core a bit deeper or boiling them for an additional minute. If you’re short on time, frozen cabbage leaves can also be a great substitute; just thaw and use as desired. Make sure to trim the thick stem end of each leaf to make rolling easier.

Creating a Flavorful Filling

The filling is where you can truly personalize your cabbage rolls. Mixing in some cooked rice adds a wonderful texture and bulk to the dish, while the smoked paprika contributes a subtle depth of flavor. If you prefer a milder taste, you might replace the smoked paprika with regular paprika or omit it entirely. To give an extra kick, adding a dash of red pepper flakes works well, balancing against the savory beef.

While I love using beef for its rich flavor, feel free to substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian option. Just ensure to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as leaner meats may require additional herbs and spices for flavor.

Perfecting the Sauce and Storage Tips

The tomato sauce is an integral part of the dish, making it succulent and flavorful. When simmering the sauce, watch for the flavors to meld and deepen in color, which should take about 10 minutes. You can also experiment by adding a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar for extra acidity, enhancing the overall taste. Adjusting the sweetness with sugar will balance the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.

If you want to prepare the cabbage rolls ahead of time, you can assemble them a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just make sure to cover them tightly to prevent drying out. They also freeze beautifully; arrange them in a single layer and then transfer to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake from frozen but add an extra 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.

Ingredients

Gather these essential ingredients before you start cooking:

For the Cabbage Rolls

1 large head of green cabbage
1 pound ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

For the Tomato Sauce

2 cups tomato sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

Having everything ready will ensure a smoother cooking process.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious cabbage rolls:

Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the core of the cabbage and place the whole head in the boiling water for about 5 minutes, or until the leaves are pliable. Remove the leaves and let them cool.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and parsley. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

Take a cabbage leaf and place about 2 tablespoons of the filling at one end. Tuck in the sides and roll tightly. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

Prepare the Sauce

In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, sugar, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.

Bake the Cabbage Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread some tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish and arrange the cabbage rolls seam side down. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls. Cover with foil and bake for approximately 45 minutes.

Let the rolls rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your cabbage rolls with a side of crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the filling. You can also substitute the ground beef with turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Serving Suggestions

These cabbage rolls pair wonderfully with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top, enhancing the creaminess and balancing the acidity of the tomato sauce. Serve them alongside a simple green salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar for a light complement to the hearty rolls.

For a more substantial meal, consider serving them with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, or even a side of mashed potatoes. The options are endless, so feel free to get creative with your sides!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your cabbage rolls are falling apart during baking, they might not have been rolled tightly enough, or the leaves might have cracked due to uneven boiling. To fix this for future batches, ensure that the leaves are soft but not overly cooked and try to roll them snugly while avoiding overstuffing.

Another common issue is the sauce being too acidic. If that happens, simply add a bit more sugar or a splash of cream after the initial simmer to balance the flavors effectively. Taste as you go, and you'll find the right balance for your palate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen cabbage?

While fresh cabbage is recommended for texture, you can use frozen cabbage. Just ensure it's fully thawed and drained before using.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They also freeze well for up to 3 months.

→ Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare and assemble the rolls a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

→ What can I serve with cabbage rolls?

Cabbage rolls pair wonderfully with a simple side salad, crusty bread, or mashed potatoes.