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
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the cabbage leaves, keeping them whole.
- Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, or until softened. Remove and set aside to cool.
2️⃣ Make the Filling
- 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
- Lay a cabbage leaf on a flat surface. Place about 2 tablespoons of the filling near the stem end of the leaf.
- Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly, like a burrito. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
4️⃣ Prepare the Sauce
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
- 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
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of the sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are fully covered.
- 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! 🌿✨