Stuffed Cabbage Rolls | Easy healthy dinner
Stuffed cabbage rolls, dripping with rich flavor and warmth, are a classic comfort food that hails from Eastern European kitchens. These little bundles of joy combine tender cabbage leaves enveloping a hearty filling of seasoned meat and rice, simmered in tangy tomato sauce. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a cozy family gathering, nothing brings happiness to the table quite like a plate of stuffed cabbage rolls. This recipe promises simplicity, flavors that dance on the palate, and a nostalgic touch, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Table of Contents
I clearly remember the first time I tasted stuffed cabbage rolls, made lovingly by my grandmother on a snowy winter evening. The aroma wafting through the house signaled good things were coming, and the first forkful of that savory filling enveloped in tender cabbage transported me to a place of warmth and comfort. This stuffed cabbage rolls recipe is beloved not only for its simplicity but also for its ability to feed a crowd without emptying your wallet. It’s a dish that never fails to impress, a celebration of flavors that beckons everyone to the table. Trust me; you’ll want to give these delicious rolls a try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: With only 25 minutes of prep time, these tasty delights are perfect for busy nights.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of seasoned meat, rice, and tangy tomato sauce creates a mouthwatering experience.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant green cabbage leaves and red sauce are as stunning as they are delicious.
- Flexible Serving: These rolls shine as a hearty main course or can be cut in half for a delightful appetizer at gatherings.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adapted for gluten-free diets by swapping in rice or quinoa for the filling.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 large head of cabbage: This is the star of the show; it needs to be large enough to provide a good number of leaves for wrapping.
- 1 lb ground beef or pork (or a mix): Feel free to use your favorite type of meat; turkey or a plant-based alternative work beautifully here too.
- 1 cup cooked rice: Leftover rice works fantastic, and brown rice adds a nutty flavor.
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the filling; sauté beforehand for extra flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: A must for a fragrant and tasty filling that pairs stunningly with meat.
- 1 large egg: Helps bind the filling ingredients together, making it easier to roll.
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for enhancing flavors.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Just the right amount of spice without overpowering the dish.
- 1 tsp paprika: Gives a delightful smoky flavor to the meat filling.
- 2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes: This creates a luscious sauce that keeps the rolls moist during cooking.
- 1 cup beef broth: Adds depth to the cooking liquid, creating a rich sauce.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: For browning the rolls; feel free to use another oil like canola for a neutral taste.
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish): Brightens up the dish visually and adds a fresh flavor burst.
How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe | Easy healthy dinner
Prepare the cabbage leaves: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head into the boiling water. Blanch the cabbage for 5–7 minutes until the leaves are softened and pliable. Remove the cabbage and allow it to cool slightly before gently peeling the leaves away.
Combine filling ingredients: In a big mixing bowl, combine 1 lb ground beef or pork, 1 cup cooked rice, 1 medium onion (finely chopped), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 large egg, 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp paprika. Mix until everything is evenly blended; the mixture should feel moist yet firm, perfect for rolling.
Fill the cabbage leaves: Take a cabbage leaf and place 2–3 tablespoons of the filling in the center. Fold the sides of the leaf inward, then roll it tightly from the bottom, much like wrapping a burrito. Repeat until all your filling is used up, laying the filled rolls seam-side down.
Brown the rolls: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down and brown them lightly on all sides, about 2–3 minutes per side until they’re a lovely golden color. This step adds a wonderful flavor base to your dish.
Simmer in sauce: Pour in 2 cups of tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes and 1 cup of beef broth over the cabbage rolls. Bring to a gentle simmer, then cover and reduce the heat. Let the rolls cook for 45–60 minutes; they should be tender and fully cooked through by the time you’re done.
Garnish and serve: After cooking, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving. These rolls are divine on their own but pair beautifully with a slice of crusty bread to soak up that luscious sauce.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover stuffed cabbage rolls, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months; simply wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20–25 minutes or microwave on high for 2–3 minutes until warmed through. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly upon reheating, but adding a splash of broth or water before reheating can help refresh the dish.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overstuffing each cabbage leaf; doing so can lead to breaks, making the rolls difficult to manage.
- Make sure your filling mixture is well combined; this ensures each bite is equally delicious.
- For added flavor, sauté the onions and garlic in the olive oil before mixing them into the filling—they will become sweeter and more aromatic.
- If you have leftover filling, consider using it as a stuffing for bell peppers or zucchini.
- These cabbage rolls are an excellent make-ahead option; simply prep them up to the cooking stage and refrigerate overnight.
Stuffed cabbage rolls are not just a meal; they’re a hug on a plate. They bring the rich traditions of Eastern European cooking to your home with ease. You can alter the filling, switch up the sauce, and even try different side dishes. Dinner can be an exciting adventure of flavors! So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and enjoy cherishing this easy healthy dinner that is sure to become a family favorite.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use different meats for the filling?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works beautifully if you’re looking for a lighter option. You could also experiment with plant-based alternatives like lentils for a vegetarian version.
How do I know when the rolls are cooked through?
The cabbage rolls are done when the cabbage is tender and the filling reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. You can easily check with a meat thermometer.
Can I make stuffed cabbage rolls ahead of time?
Yes, they can be assembled a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator before cooking. Just add an extra few minutes to the simmering time, as they will be chilled when you begin cooking.
What can I serve with stuffed cabbage rolls?
They pair wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad. A dollop of sour cream on the side adds creaminess and zest too!
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📖 Recipe Card
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls | Easy healthy dinner
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 85 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Enjoy these Stuffed Cabbage Rolls packed with ground beef, rice, and spices, all wrapped in tender cabbage leaves. This recipe is simple to prepare, making it a perfect choice for a quick yet hearty meal that’ll impress family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 lb ground beef or pork (or a mix)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water to boil.
- Remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head into the boiling water; cook for 5–7 minutes until leaves soften.
- Remove from water and let cool slightly, then separate the leaves.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika; mix until well combined.
- Place 2–3 tablespoons of filling onto the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold in the sides and roll tightly, similar to a burrito.
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat and place rolls seam-side down.
- Brown lightly on all sides, then pour tomato sauce and beef broth over the rolls.
- Bring to a simmer, reduce heat, cover, and cook for 45–60 minutes until the rolls are tender and fully cooked.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
You can substitute the ground meat with turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Feel free to add additional spices or herbs to the filling for extra flavor.
Leftover rolls can be stored in the fridge and reheated for a quick meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
