Irresistible Homemade Cabbage Rolls Recipe (Just Like Grandma Used to Make!)
If you’re craving the kind of hearty comfort food that warms the soul and fills the house with mouthwatering aromas, Homemade Cabbage Rolls are exactly what you need. These classic rolls are stuffed with a savory blend of ground beef, pork, rice, and herbs, all tucked inside tender cabbage leaves and simmered in a rich tomato sauce until perfectly tender. This timeless dish isn’t just a recipe—it’s a taste of tradition, and one that’s been passed down through generations for a reason.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests, feed a hungry family, or enjoy a cozy meal on a chilly night, this recipe delivers big on flavor, texture, and nostalgia.
Ingredients & Why They Matter
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients and how each one contributes to making these cabbage rolls absolutely irresistible:
For the Cabbage Rolls:
1 medium head cabbage (3 lbs): The star of the dish. When boiled (or frozen and thawed), the leaves become pliable and perfect for rolling.
½ pound ground beef: Adds hearty, meaty flavor and richness.
½ pound ground pork: Provides juiciness and a slightly sweet, tender texture that complements the beef.
½ cup uncooked long grain rice: Soaks up the juices while cooking and gives the filling a satisfying structure.
1 small onion, chopped: Adds depth and sweetness to the meat mixture.
1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes: Enhances the freshness of the filling with a hint of herbaceous flavor.
½ teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out the flavor in the meat.
½ teaspoon snipped fresh dill or dill weed: Offers a subtle tang that cuts through the richness.
⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds a gentle kick without overpowering the dish.
½ cup tomato sauce (from a 15 oz can): Mixed into the filling for moisture and depth.
For the Sauce & Assembly:
Remaining tomato sauce (from the 15 oz can): Forms the base of the rich, tangy sauce.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds texture and body to the sauce.
½ teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
Remaining cabbage (sliced): Lined at the bottom of the pot to create a flavorful bed and prevent sticking.
see next page
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
