🥬 Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe (Tender, Juicy & Packed with Flavor)
If you’re looking for the best stuffed cabbage rolls recipe, this is the one you don’t want to lose! 😱 These classic cabbage rolls are filled with seasoned ground beef, rice, and herbs, then baked in a rich tomato sauce until perfectly tender and delicious.
This comforting dish is loved worldwide and is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions.
🧾 Ingredients for Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
🥩 For the Filling:
1 cup cooked long-grain rice
1.5 pounds lean ground beef
1.5 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 large egg
1 yellow onion, minced
⅓ cup fresh parsley, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1.5 teaspoons salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon dried dill
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ to 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
½ cup tomato sauce
🍅 For the Sauce:
42 ounces tomato sauce (about 5 cups)
½ cup cabbage cooking water
🥬 Other:
1 medium head green cabbage
Fresh dill (for garnish, optional)
👩🍳 How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Rice & Oven
Cook the rice according to package instructions and set aside. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, egg, cooked rice, onion, parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, dill, onion powder, chili flakes (optional), and ½ cup tomato sauce. Mix until fully combined.
Step 3: Soften the Cabbage Leaves
Bring a large pot of water to a boil and carefully add the whole cabbage. Boil for 8–10 minutes, turning halfway through.
Remove and let cool slightly. Gently peel off the leaves, trimming the thick core from each leaf.
💡 Tip: Return the cabbage to boiling water if the leaves are still firm.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
Line the bottom of a deep baking dish with extra cabbage leaves.
Place about ¼ cup of filling onto each leaf. Fold in the sides and roll tightly. Place seam-side down in the dish.
Step 5: Add the Sauce
Mix the remaining tomato sauce with ½ cup of cabbage water. Pour evenly over the cabbage rolls.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors are fully developed.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh dill if desired.
✨ Pro Tips for Perfect Cabbage Rolls
Use lean beef to avoid excess grease
Don’t overfill the rolls—they’ll be easier to seal
Always soften cabbage leaves properly to prevent tearing
Let the dish rest before serving for better texture
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze cabbage rolls?
Yes! They freeze beautifully. Store before or after baking for up to 3 months.
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely—it’s a lighter alternative with great flavor.
Why add cabbage water to the sauce?
It enhances the flavor and keeps the rolls moist while baking.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Classic comfort food
Rich, hearty, and satisfying
Perfect for meal prep
Family-friendly and freezer-friendly
📌 Final Thoughts
These stuffed cabbage rolls are the ultimate comfort food—tender, juicy, and full of flavor in every bite. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen!
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