Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Stuffed cabbage rolls, a beloved dish across various cultures, offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures. With a savory filling wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and bathed in a rich tomato sauce, this recipe is a comforting and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, these cabbage rolls are sure to impress. Let’s dive into the ultimate stuffed cabbage rolls recipe!

Ingredients:

• 2 heads of cabbage
• 2 lbs ground beef
• 3 cups cooked rice
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp garlic
• 1 tbsp parsley
• 2 slices diced onion
• 1 – 15 oz. can tomato sauce
• 1 – 28 oz. can crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce (for the meat)
• Salt & Pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves:
   • Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
   • Carefully remove the core from the cabbage heads.
   • Place the cabbage heads in the boiling water and cook for 3-5 minutes or until the leaves are tender.
   • Remove the cabbage from the water and let it cool. Peel off the leaves carefully, ensuring they remain intact. Set aside.
2. Make the Filling:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, egg, garlic, parsley, diced onion, 1/4 cup tomato sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Assemble the Rolls:
   • Take one cabbage leaf and place a portion of the filling in the center.
   • Roll the cabbage leaf tightly around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go.
   • Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
   • In a separate bowl, mix together the crushed tomatoes and remaining tomato sauce.
5. Bake:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce mixture on the bottom of a baking dish.
   • Arrange the cabbage rolls in the dish, seam side down.
   • Pour the remaining sauce over the cabbage rolls, covering them completely.
6. Cook:
   • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 1 hour.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the cabbage rolls are cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
7. Serve:
   • Once cooked, remove the cabbage rolls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
   • Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Vegetarian Variation: For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or your favorite meat alternative.
• Cheesy Twist: Add a layer of shredded cheese between the cabbage and filling for an extra indulgent touch.
• Spice it Up: Incorporate some diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes into the filling for a spicy kick.
• Mushroom Medley: Enhance the filling with sautéed mushrooms and onions for added flavor and texture.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

• Keto Option: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice to reduce the carb content and make it suitable for a keto diet.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Use a sugar-free tomato sauce and reduce the amount of rice in the filling to make it lower in carbs while still maintaining the delicious taste.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q: Can I make stuffed cabbage rolls ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the cabbage rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them until ready to bake. You may need to adjust the baking time slightly if baking them from cold.

Q: Can I freeze stuffed cabbage rolls? A: Absolutely! Once assembled and baked, allow the cabbage rolls to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and then warm them in the oven or microwave.

Q: What can I serve with stuffed cabbage rolls? A: Stuffed cabbage rolls pair well with a variety of side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.

Q: Can I use a different type of cabbage? A: While traditional cabbage works best for this recipe, you can experiment with other varieties such as savoy cabbage or Napa cabbage for a slightly different flavor.

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a timeless dish that brings comfort and warmth to any table. With a flavorful filling wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and smothered in a rich tomato sauce, these rolls are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or get creative with your own variations, the result is always a delicious and satisfying meal. Give this ultimate stuffed cabbage rolls recipe a try and enjoy a taste of culinary tradition!