Bring the taste of tradition to your table with these Stuffed Cabbage Rolls! Tender cabbage leaves are filled with a savory blend of meat and rice, then baked in a rich tomato sauce. This classic comfort food is perfect for family dinners or special gatherings. 💕🍽️
🛒 Ingredients:
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 🥬 1 large green cabbage
- 🍚 1 cup cooked white rice
- 🍖 1 lb ground beef
- 🧅 1 small onion, finely diced
- 🧄 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 🥚 1 egg
- 🌱 1 tsp dried parsley
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 🍅 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 🧅 1 small onion, finely diced
- 🧄 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 🫒 1 tbsp olive oil
- 🌿 1 tsp dried basil
- 🌱 1 tsp dried oregano
- 🧂 Salt and pepper to taste
🔥 Instructions:
1️⃣ Prepare the Cabbage:
- Remove the core from the cabbage. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and carefully place the whole cabbage in the pot. Boil for 8-10 minutes until the leaves soften.
- Gently peel off the cabbage leaves and set them aside to cool.
2️⃣ Make the Filling:
- In a large bowl, mix the cooked rice, ground beef, diced onion, minced garlic, egg, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3️⃣ Stuff the Cabbage Rolls:
- Take a softened cabbage leaf and trim the thick part of the stem. Place 2-3 tablespoons of the filling at the base of the leaf. Fold the sides in and roll it up tightly. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
4️⃣ Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and garlic until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
5️⃣ Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the rolls, ensuring they’re fully covered.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1 hour, removing the foil for the last 15 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
6️⃣ Serve and Enjoy:
- Let the rolls cool for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with parsley for a fresh touch.
🍯 Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Rich & Savory: A balance of tender cabbage, flavorful filling, and tangy tomato sauce.
- Family Favorite: A comforting dish that feels like a warm hug.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare in advance and reheat for an easy meal.
- Customizable: Swap beef for turkey or make it vegetarian with lentils or mushrooms!
✨ These Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are hearty, delicious, and timeless. Serve them with crusty bread or mashed potatoes for a meal everyone will adore! 🥰🍴