EASY TO COOK

🌿 Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: A Comfort Food Classic 🍽️✨

by

These tender cabbage rolls are filled with a savory mixture of meat, rice, and spices, then simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this dish is a labor of love with a delicious payoff! 🛒

🛒 Ingredients:

For the Rolls:

  • 🌿 1 large head of cabbage (about 12 large leaves)
  • 🥩 1 lb ground beef (or turkey, or a mix)
  • 🍚 1 cup cooked rice
  • 🧅 1/2 cup onion, finely diced
  • 🧂 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 🧂 1 tsp salt
  • 🌶️ 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 🌿 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)

For the Sauce:

  • 🍅 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 🧅 1/2 cup onion, finely diced
  • 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 🥄 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 🥄 1 tbsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
  • 🌿 1 tsp dried basil or oregano
  • 🧂 Salt and pepper, to taste

🔥 Instructions:

1️⃣ Prepare the Cabbage

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the cabbage leaves, keeping them whole.
  2. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, or until softened. Remove and set aside to cool.

2️⃣ Make the Filling

  1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, onion, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and parsley. Mix until well combined.

3️⃣ Assemble the Rolls

  1. Lay a cabbage leaf on a flat surface. Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling near the stem end of the leaf.
  2. Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly, like a burrito. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

4️⃣ Prepare the Sauce

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
  2. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
  3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, sugar, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

5️⃣ Cook the Cabbage Rolls

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spread a thin layer of the sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish.
  3. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are fully covered.
  4. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the rolls are cooked through.

6️⃣ Serve & Enjoy

  • Serve warm, garnished with extra parsley or a dollop of sour cream. Pair with crusty bread or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. 🍴

🍯 Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

  • Rich & Savory: A flavorful blend of meat, rice, and tomato sauce.
  • Comfort Food Favorite: A dish that warms both the heart and the stomach.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or freezing for later.

Enjoy the tender, flavorful goodness of these classic stuffed cabbage rolls—a dish that’s as comforting as a warm hug! 🌿✨