If you’re craving a heartwarming meal that feels like a big, flavorful hug, look no further than this Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Savory Tomato Sauce Recipe. This classic dish brings together tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a delicious, well-seasoned meat and rice filling, all simmered in a rich, tangy tomato sauce that’s bursting with herbs and just the right touch of sweetness. Each bite delivers a comforting blend of textures and flavors that will surely become a family favorite, perfect for cozy dinners or special gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing fancy here—just a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create something truly spectacular. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s the savory beef, the sweet notes in the sauce, or the tender cabbage that holds everything together.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For sautéing the onions and garlic, adding a silky richness to the sauce.
- 1/2 medium onion (diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic (peeled and minced): Infuses the dish with a wonderfully aromatic punch.
- 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes (do not drain): Forms the heart of the savory tomato sauce with natural sweetness and acidity.
- 15-ounce can tomato sauce: Gives the sauce a smooth texture and rich tomato base.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Adds concentrated tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to balance and enhance all the flavors.
- ¼ cup brown sugar: Brings a gentle sweetness to complement the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar: Adds a bright tang that livens the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the umami depth in both the sauce and meat filling.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs: A perfect blend of herbs that give the sauce an herby warmth.
- 1 pound extra lean ground beef: The hearty protein base for the filling, keeping it juicy and tasty.
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown): Provides a comforting texture and helps bind the filling.
- 1 tablespoon onion powder: Boosts the flavor of the beef mixture subtly and deliciously.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Another garlic boost to ensure the filling is packed with flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Seasoning that brings out the best in every ingredient.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds that gentle kick and complexity to the filling.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Again, for added savoriness and moisture in the filling.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Lends subtle smoky undertones to the meat.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs blend: To season the filling with fragrant herbs.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped): Freshness that brightens the flavors.
- 1 egg: Acts as the perfect binder to keep the filling intact inside the cabbage leaves.
- 1 head of cabbage: Softened and sturdy enough to wrap the delicious filling with ease.
How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Savory Tomato Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, letting them cook until soft and fragrant—this builds the flavorful base of the sauce. Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with the tomato sauce and tomato paste, stirring everything together. Season with salt, pepper, brown sugar, red wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and dried Italian herbs. Allow the sauce to simmer gently while you prepare the filling, which helps all those wonderful flavors marry perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
Carefully core the cabbage, then blanch the whole head in boiling water for several minutes until the leaves are pliable but still hold their shape. Remove leaves gently, drying them on a towel. These tender leaves will cradle your flavorful filling and soften further during cooking.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a bowl, combine the ground beef with cooked rice, onion powder, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, dried Italian herbs, chopped fresh parsley, and one beaten egg. Mix thoroughly until everything is evenly distributed, ensuring each bite is bursting with balanced flavor and perfect texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Rolls
Take one cabbage leaf at a time, place a generous spoonful of the meat filling near the stem end, then fold the sides over and roll it up tightly like a burrito. Continue this process until all the filling and leaves are used, arranging each roll seam side down in your pot or baking dish.
Step 5: Cook the Rolls
Pour the prepared tomato sauce over the cabbage rolls until they are almost covered. Cover the pot or dish with a lid or foil and simmer on low heat or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour and 45 minutes. The long, slow cooking tenderizes the cabbage and infuses the filling with that rich savory tomato goodness you crave.
How to Serve Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Savory Tomato Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a spoonful of sour cream on top can add an inviting touch of color and creaminess, balancing the robust flavors of your Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Savory Tomato Sauce Recipe beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with buttery mashed potatoes, crusty bread for soaking up the luscious sauce, or a simple green salad to add a fresh contrast to the hearty rolls.
Creative Ways to Present
Try arranging the rolls in individual ramekins with sauce spooned over each for a personal touch, or stack them in layers in a casserole dish topped with melted cheese for a fun twist that’s perfect for dinner parties and family gatherings alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Savory Tomato Sauce Recipe keep beautifully for about 3-4 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to deepen even more over time.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked rolls before or after baking. Wrap them tightly or store in a freezer-safe dish, and they will maintain their flavor and texture for up to 3 months—perfect for a make-ahead meal.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil to prevent drying out, or microwave individual portions with a little extra sauce to keep them moist and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well with the same seasonings for a lighter version of the Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Savory Tomato Sauce Recipe.
How do I soften the cabbage leaves without boiling the entire head?
You can individually blanch cabbage leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until flexible, which makes the rolling process easier and prevents overcooking.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for a hearty mixture of cooked lentils, mushrooms, and grains, then season well to keep the savory vibe intact.
What’s the best way to prevent the filling from falling apart?
Make sure to include the egg as a binder in the filling and roll the cabbage leaves snugly to keep everything held together during cooking.
Can I prepare the Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Savory Tomato Sauce Recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! Assemble them a day in advance and keep them covered in the fridge. Just bake or simmer them before serving for maximum flavor.
Final Thoughts
Trying this Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Savory Tomato Sauce Recipe will feel like rediscovering a delicious tradition made easy and utterly irresistible. It’s a dish that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and your soul with comfort, so gather your ingredients, roll up those cabbage leaves, and let this classic recipe become your next go-to meal. You’ll be glad you did!
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Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Savory Tomato Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Eastern European
Description
Delight in these classic Stuffed Cabbage Rolls featuring tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and herbs, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce for a comforting and hearty meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
- 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes (do not drain)
- 15-ounce can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
For the Filling
- 1 pound extra lean ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs blend
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 egg
Additional
- 1 head of cabbage
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage Leaves: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Core the cabbage head and carefully remove the leaves one by one. Blanch the cabbage leaves in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes each until they become pliable. Drain the leaves and set them aside to cool.
- Make the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion and minced garlic until translucent and fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, red wine vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine and simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes to develop flavors.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, onion powder, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian herbs, chopped parsley, and egg. Mix thoroughly to integrate all ingredients evenly.
- Assemble the Rolls: Lay a cabbage leaf flat and place approximately 2-3 tablespoons of the beef and rice filling near the base of the leaf. Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly from the base to the tip, securing the filling inside. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
- Cook the Cabbage Rolls: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven, spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom. Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam side down in the pot. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls, covering them completely. Cover the pot with a lid or foil and bake for about 2 hours, or until the meat is cooked through and the cabbage is tender.
- Serve: Carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Let the cabbage rolls rest for a few minutes before serving warm, spooning extra sauce over each roll as desired.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Use brown rice instead of white rice for added fiber and nutrients.
- If you prefer a spicier sauce, add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sauce preparation.
- The cabbage leaves must be blanched properly to ensure they are flexible and won’t tear when rolling.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat well.
