Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Cabbage Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Carefully place the whole cabbage head into the boiling water.
Boil just until outer leaves begin to soften and pull away easily (about 2–3 minutes per layer).
Remove the cabbage from the water and peel off 12 large, intact leaves. Set them aside.
Pro Tip: To skip boiling, freeze the cabbage overnight, then thaw—this softens the leaves perfectly for rolling.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
Ground beef
Ground pork
Chopped onion
Rice
Parsley
Salt
Dill
Cayenne pepper
½ cup of the tomato sauce
Mix thoroughly until well combined but not overworked.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Trim the thick vein at the base of each cabbage leaf by cutting a small V-shaped notch.
Place about ¼ cup of filling onto each cabbage leaf.
Fold in the sides, then roll from the bottom up to enclose the filling completely.
Place each roll seam-side down to prevent unrolling during cooking.
Step 4: Layer and Sauce
Slice any remaining cabbage and spread it across the bottom of a Dutch oven or large baking dish.
Arrange the cabbage rolls in a single, snug layer on top of the sliced cabbage.
In a small bowl, stir together:
The remaining tomato sauce
Diced tomatoes (with juice)
Sugar
Pour this savory tomato mixture evenly over the cabbage rolls.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover tightly with a lid or foil.
Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1½ hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the meat is fully cooked.
Let rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Why This Recipe Is So Loved
Nostalgic flavor: It’s the ultimate comfort dish that tastes like a warm hug from Grandma.
Budget-friendly: Simple ingredients, big flavors.
Make-ahead magic: Great for meal prep, and it freezes like a dream.
Customizable: You can switch up the meats, add cheese, or use cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist.
Serving Suggestions
These savory cabbage rolls are hearty enough to stand on their own, but even better when paired with:
Crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the delicious tomato sauce.
Mashed potatoes or buttered noodles for a classic Eastern European touch.
A crisp green salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness.
Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt on the side for a creamy contrast.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cabbage Rolls
Don’t overstuff the leaves. Keeping them manageable makes rolling easier and prevents splitting.
Use a mix of beef and pork for the best texture and flavor.
Let them rest after baking. This helps everything firm up and enhances the taste.
Double the batch. These freeze beautifully for up to 3 months—just reheat in the oven or microwave.
Final Thoughts: Classic Comfort Made Easy
These Homemade Cabbage Rolls are the perfect blend of old-fashioned goodness and practical weeknight cooking. With just a bit of prep and a short ingredient list, you can enjoy a wholesome, filling, and incredibly satisfying meal that’s as good today as it was in generations past.
Whether you’re cooking for your family, meal prepping, or just craving something cozy, this simple and delicious cabbage roll recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Try it today—and taste the tradition in every bite.
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