Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until evenly blended.
You want the filling to be moist but not overly wet—adding a spoonful of tomato sauce can help bind it if needed.
Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, brown sugar, vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, and herbs.
Bring to a gentle simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened slightly and aromatic.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
Trim the thick vein at the base of each cabbage leaf for easier rolling.
Place about 2–3 tablespoons of filling near the base of a leaf, fold the sides inward, and roll it up tightly—like a burrito—to seal in the filling.
Repeat until all the rolls are assembled.
Step 5: Layer and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish or Dutch oven. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a single layer, and pour the remaining sauce over the top.
Cover tightly with foil or a lid.
Bake for 1½ to 2 hours, until the rolls are tender and the sauce is bubbling. The slow baking allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the cabbage to become meltingly soft.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the cabbage rolls carefully and spoon extra sauce on top before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Serve warm with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or crusty bread to soak up that delicious tomato gravy.
🍽️ Tips & Variations
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the rolls and refrigerate them (uncooked) for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Freezer-Friendly: Freeze cooked cabbage rolls with sauce for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the oven.
- Flavor Boost: Add a handful of sauerkraut or a splash of lemon juice to the sauce for a tangy twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with lentils, mushrooms, and rice for a hearty meatless version.
❤️ Why We Love It
Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are more than just a recipe—they’re a culinary hug from the past. Each bite is comforting, rich, and layered with the love that only slow-cooked homemade meals can offer. Whether you’re making them for a family gathering or a cozy weekend dinner, they’ll always bring warmth to your table.
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