Delicious, hearty, and bursting with rich flavor, this timeless stuffed cabbage rolls recipe will quickly become your go-to comfort food. Made with tender cabbage leaves filled with seasoned ground beef, rice, and herbs, then topped with a tangy tomato sauce, this dish brings nostalgic warmth to every bite. Perfect for cozy family dinners or special occasions, it pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli for a satisfying, well-rounded meal.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a tried-and-true classic that brings simplicity and flavor together. The tender cabbage, savory beef filling, and rich tomato sauce come together in a slow-cooked masterpiece that’s easy to prepare yet impressive enough to serve guests. It’s a one-pot meal that leaves you with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 2 heads of cabbage: Provides tender, wrapable leaves. Cooking them briefly softens the texture.
- 2 lbs ground beef: Opt for ground chuck for rich, savory flavor and juiciness.
- 3 cups cooked rice: Adds heartiness and absorbs the savory juices from the filling.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to hold the filling together.
- 1 tsp garlic (minced): Adds depth and aroma to the filling.
- 1 tbsp parsley (chopped): Brightens the filling with a touch of freshness.
- 2 slices diced onion: Infuses the filling with sweet, savory flavor.
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce: Keeps the meat mixture moist and flavorful.
- Salt & Pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce: Forms the base of the sauce, delivering rich tomato flavor.
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes: Adds texture and a tangy, hearty consistency to the sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- In batches, cook the cabbage heads for 3-5 minutes until the leaves are crisp-tender.
- Carefully remove the cabbage leaves, cool them slightly, and drain excess water.
- Trim the thick vein at the base of each cabbage leaf, cutting a shallow "V" shape. This helps the leaves roll up easily.
2. Make the Beef and Rice Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Cooked rice, diced onion, egg, minced garlic, parsley, tomato sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Add the ground beef and gently mix until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overmix to keep the filling tender.
3. Assemble the Cabbage Rolls
- Place about 1/4 cup of the beef mixture into the center of each cabbage leaf.
- Fold the edges together:
- Pull the cut edges of the leaf to slightly overlap over the filling.
- Fold in the sides, then roll tightly, like a burrito.
- Place the rolls seam-side down in the bottom of a 4- or 5-quart slow cooker.
4. Prepare and Pour the Sauce
- In a large bowl, combine:
- Tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes.
- Pour half of the sauce over the first layer of cabbage rolls.
- Add another layer of cabbage rolls on top and cover with the remaining sauce.
5. Slow Cook the Cabbage Rolls
- Cover the slow cooker with a lid and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours.
- The cabbage rolls are ready when the internal temperature of the beef filling reaches 160°F, and the cabbage leaves are tender and flavorful.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cabbage Rolls
- Choose the Right Cabbage: Look for fresh, large green cabbages with sturdy leaves. This makes rolling easier.
- Don’t Overcook the Leaves: Boil them just until tender to avoid tearing during rolling.
- Prevent Overstuffing: Too much filling can cause the rolls to split while cooking. Use about 1/4 cup of meat mixture per roll.
- Slow Cooker Perfection: Cooking on low heat ensures tender cabbage and a perfectly blended flavor.
- Make Ahead: You can assemble the cabbage rolls the night before and refrigerate. Just add the sauce and cook the next day!
Serving Suggestions
Pair these old-fashioned stuffed cabbage rolls with classic comfort sides for a complete meal:
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The perfect complement to soak up the savory tomato sauce.
- Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans: Adds a fresh, healthy touch to balance the hearty rolls.
- Crusty Bread: Ideal for mopping up every last drop of the delicious sauce.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
These stuffed cabbage rolls are a timeless dish that delivers comfort in every bite. Whether it’s the tender cabbage, perfectly seasoned beef and rice filling, or the rich tomato sauce, this recipe is both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring every bite is tender and delicious. Plus, these cabbage rolls freeze wonderfully, making them a convenient make-ahead option for busy weeknights or special gatherings.
Final Thoughts
This Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe is a family favorite for a reason: it’s comforting, flavorful, and simple to prepare. The combination of tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and hearty tomato sauce creates a dish that’s both nostalgic and irresistible.
Try this recipe today and bring a touch of tradition and heartwarming comfort to your dinner table. It’s a meal that’s sure to impress while keeping everyone coming back for seconds! Enjoy!