Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a comforting and hearty dish, featuring tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful filling of ground meat, rice, and seasonings, all simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. This dish is popular in many cultures, from Eastern European variations to Mediterranean-inspired versions. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a satisfying meal that is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

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Ingredients:

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce

For the Filling:

• 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 large head of cabbage
• Cooking spray for greasing the baking dish

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Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, brown sugar, red wine vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
5. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Immerse the whole cabbage head in boiling water and cook for 4-5 minutes until the leaves are pliable.
3. Remove from water and carefully peel off 12 large leaves.
4. Use a small knife to cut a V-shaped notch to remove the thick part of the cabbage rib.

Step 3: Make the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, beaten egg, and fresh parsley.
2. Mix until well combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

1. Lay each cabbage leaf on a flat surface.
2. Place ⅓ cup of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf.
3. Roll the cabbage leaf around the filling, tucking in the sides as you go.
4. Repeat with the remaining meat and cabbage leaves.

Step 5: Bake the Cabbage Rolls

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
3. Pour half of the tomato sauce into the bottom of the dish.
4. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the baking dish.
5. Top with the remaining tomato sauce.
6. Cover with foil and bake for 70-90 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the meat is fully cooked.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
2. Serve warm with crusty bread or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

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Tips for the Best Stuffed Cabbage Rolls:

• Use a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor.
• Freeze the cabbage overnight instead of boiling—it softens naturally.
• Add shredded carrots to the filling for a touch of sweetness.
• Pair with sour cream for a creamy contrast.

This dish is rich, comforting, and packed with flavor—perfect for a satisfying meal! 🥬🍅

Would you like variations or additional serving ideas? 😊