Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe with Savory Meat and Rice Filling

Why You’ll Love This Savory Cabbage Rolls

If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that’s both delicious and nutritious, these savory cabbage rolls are exactly what you need. This recipe has become a family favorite in my household, and once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s so beloved. There’s something special about tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful meat and rice filling, all smothered in a tangy tomato sauce that brings everything together.

This savory cabbage rolls recipe is designed for simplicity and quick cooking, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The straightforward steps and minimal prep time ensure you can enjoy a nutritious and delicious meal without hassle. Even if you’ve never made cabbage rolls before, you’ll find this recipe approachable and rewarding.

Health Benefits

Packed with fresh cabbage and wholesome ingredients, these savory cabbage rolls offer excellent nutritional value. Cabbage is often overlooked as a superfood, but it’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber that support digestion and overall wellness while being a balanced meal choice. The combination of lean proteins, vegetables, and grains makes these rolls a complete meal that will keep you satisfied.

The ground beef in this recipe provides high-quality protein and essential nutrients like iron and B vitamins. According to nutrition experts, lean beef can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced eating plan. The rice adds carbohydrates for sustained energy, while the vegetables contribute vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Versatility

Adaptable to various dietary needs, these savory cabbage rolls can easily be modified for vegan, gluten-free, or low-calorie diets. This flexibility makes the recipe suitable for anyone seeking a customized and satisfying dish. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, health-conscious family members, or simply want to use ingredients you have on hand, this recipe can be tailored to your preferences.

This versatility extends beyond dietary restrictions as well. You can adjust the seasonings to match your family’s taste preferences, make it spicier with red pepper flakes, or incorporate fresh herbs from your garden. The recipe serves as an excellent foundation that welcomes creativity and personal touches.

Distinctive Flavor

What makes these savory cabbage rolls stand out is the unique blend of spices and quality ingredients that deliver a rich and hearty taste experience. The balance of flavors makes it an enticing meal everyone will love. The combination of pork sausage and beef creates a deeply savory filling, while the tomato sauce with a hint of sweetness and tanginess provides the perfect complement.

The brown sugar in the sauce adds just enough sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, while the cider vinegar provides a bright, tangy note that cuts through the richness of the meat. The dried parsley and paprika add depth of flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. Together, these elements create a harmonious dish that’s greater than the sum of its parts.

Essential Ingredients for Savory Cabbage Rolls

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, accessible ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Here’s what you’ll need to make these delicious cabbage rolls:

Main Ingredients

• 1 head of green cabbage – provides the tender yet sturdy leaves essential for wrapping
• 1/2 pound ground pork sausage – adds rich flavor and seasonings to the filling
• 1/2 pound ground beef – provides the main protein substance and classic taste
• 3/4 cup Minute Rice or long-grain parboiled white rice – adds texture and helps bind the filling
• 1 large egg – helps bind the filling together
• 1 small onion, finely chopped – adds sweetness and depth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – enhances aroma and taste
• 1 cup tomato sauce – keeps rolls moist and infuses a tangy richness
• 1 can (about 14.5 ounces) petite diced tomatoes – adds texture to the sauce
• 1 tablespoon cider vinegar – provides a tangy note to balance flavors
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar – adds subtle sweetness to the sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley – adds fresh herbal notes
• 1 teaspoon paprika – contributes color and mild flavor
• Salt and pepper to taste – essential seasoning for balance
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – for sautéing and adding richness

Pro Tip: The quality of your ingredients makes a difference in the final result. Try to use fresh vegetables and good quality meats for the best flavor. If possible, purchase your cabbage from a local farmer’s market where it’s likely to be fresher and more flavorful than what you might find at a supermarket.

Complete Ingredient List

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 can (about 14.5 ounces) petite diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 large head green cabbage
• 1/2 pound ground pork sausage
• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• 1 large egg
• 3/4 cup Minute Rice or long-grain parboiled white rice
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon paprika

Special Dietary Options

How to Prepare the Perfect Savory Cabbage Rolls: Step-by-Step Guide

Making cabbage rolls might seem intimidating at first, but with this detailed guide, you’ll master the technique in no time. The process is straightforward and rewarding, resulting in a dish that looks impressive and tastes even better. Let’s walk through each step to ensure your success.

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

Start by bringing a large pot of water to boil. Carefully place the whole head of cabbage into the boiling water and let it cook for 5 minutes to soften the leaves. This step is crucial as it makes the leaves pliable and less likely to tear when rolling. After 5 minutes, remove the cabbage, drain it, and let it cool until you can handle it comfortably.

Once cooled, cut off about 1/2 inch from the stem end. This makes it much easier to separate the leaves. Carefully peel off 12 leaves, taking care not to tear them. For each leaf, you’ll need to cut out the tough rib in a V-shape to make rolling easier. Don’t worry if you make a few mistakes with the first few leaves, as you can use the damaged ones to line the baking dish later.

Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce

While the cabbage is cooling, prepare the sauce. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Reduce the heat and add the minced garlic, cooking for just 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

Next, add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, cider vinegar, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This creates a perfectly balanced sauce with just the right amount of sweetness and tanginess to complement the savory filling.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce mixture in the bottom of a 9×13 inch casserole dish. This not only prevents the rolls from sticking but also starts the flavoring process from the bottom up. If you have any leftover or damaged cabbage leaves, this is a great time to use them to line the bottom of the dish for extra flavor.

Step 4: Create the Meat Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork sausage, ground beef, 1/2 cup finely chopped onion, minced garlic, large egg, uncooked Minute Rice, dried parsley, and paprika. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should hold together when formed but not be overly dense.

Note: The ground meat mixture does not need to be precooked. It will cook perfectly inside the cabbage leaves while baking, keeping the filling moist and flavorful.

Step 5: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

Now comes the fun part, assembling your cabbage rolls. Place about 1/3 cup of the meat mixture in the center of each cabbage leaf, near the stem end. Fold in the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll from the stem end toward the tip, creating a tight cylinder. The filling will expand slightly during cooking, so don’t overfill the leaves.

Step 6: Arrange and Sauce the Rolls

Place the completed rolls seam-side down in a single layer in the prepared casserole dish. Make sure they’re nestled closely together but not overcrowded. Pour the remaining tomato sauce evenly over the rolls, ensuring each one gets coated in the delicious sauce.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This is important because it creates a steamy environment that keeps the cabbage leaves tender. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 80-90 minutes. The rolls are done when the cabbage is very tender and the filling is cooked through.

Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes if you’d like the tops to brown slightly. Allow the rolls to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps them set and makes them easier to serve.

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Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Savory Cabbage Rolls

One of the wonderful things about this recipe is its adaptability. Whether you have dietary restrictions or simply want to try something different, there are numerous ways to customize these cabbage rolls to suit your needs. Below are some popular substitutions and variations you might enjoy.

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

• Vegan: Replace ground beef and pork with lentils, walnuts, or crumbled tofu to maintain protein without animal products. These alternatives provide texture and absorb the flavors of the spices beautifully. Lentils particularly work well as they have a similar texture to ground meat when cooked.
• Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free rice and sauces to avoid gluten contamination. Most ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always important to check labels, especially on processed sauces and seasonings.
• Low-calorie: Opt for lean meats like turkey, or reduce added grains to lower calories. You can also increase the proportion of vegetables in the filling for added volume with fewer calories. Ground turkey breast is an excellent lean option that still provides great flavor.
• Whole Grain: Substitute the white rice with brown rice, quinoa, or farro for added fiber and nutrients. These grains take longer to cook, so they may need to be pre-cooked before adding to the filling.
• Keto-friendly: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative that still provides texture. This substitution works surprisingly well and maintains the overall character of the dish while reducing carbohydrates significantly.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

• Alternative Wrappers: While traditional cabbage rolls use green cabbage, you can experiment with Swiss chard, collard greens, or even romaine lettuce for a different flavor and texture profile. Each green brings its unique characteristics to the dish.
• Sauce Variations: Use different tomato-based sauces such as marinara or salsa verde to vary flavor. For a creamy alternative, try a mushroom cream sauce or a roasted red pepper sauce. Each sauce creates a completely different dish while keeping the comforting nature of cabbage rolls intact.
• Seasoning Twists: Incorporate herbs like dill, parsley, or smoked paprika to customize seasoning. Mediterranean flavors can be achieved with oregano and thyme, while Asian-inspired rolls might benefit from ginger and sesame oil. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the filling.
• Vegetable Additions: Mix finely chopped mushrooms, carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini into the filling for extra nutrition and flavor. These vegetables also help keep the filling moist and add beautiful color when sliced.

These options ensure your savory cabbage rolls suit any preference or dietary requirement, making this a versatile recipe to return to again and again.

Mastering Savory Cabbage Rolls: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you might want to try some advanced techniques to elevate your cabbage rolls even further. These tips and variations come from years of experimentation in my kitchen and will help you create restaurant-quality results at home.

Cooking Techniques

Consider pre-roasting the cabbage leaves for extra flavor and texture before filling them. Simply place the blanched leaves on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for 5-7 minutes until slightly charred. This adds a depth of flavor that’s truly exceptional and mimics the traditional method of cooking over an open fire.

For a hands-off approach, you can use a slow cooker for gentle, even cooking. Place the assembled rolls in the slow cooker, pour the sauce over them, and cook on low for 4-6 hours. The result is incredibly tender rolls with melded flavors. This method is particularly convenient for busy days when you want to come home to a hot meal waiting for you.

Another advanced technique is to par-boil the cabbage leaves in broth instead of plain water. This infuses them with additional flavor from the very beginning. Chicken, vegetable, or beef broth all work well, depending on your preference and dietary needs.

Flavor Variations

Add spices like cumin, coriander, or allspice for a Mediterranean flair. These warm spices pair beautifully with the tomato sauce and meat filling. For Eastern European style, add a touch of caraway seeds to the filling, which is traditional in many regions.

You can also experiment with substituting the tomato sauce with creamy alternatives. A mushroom gravy or a yogurt-based sauce creates a completely different dish while keeping the comforting nature of cabbage rolls intact. For a lighter version, try a lemon-herb sauce with plenty of fresh dill and parsley.

Consider incorporating smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor profile. A splash of Worcestershire sauce in the filling adds umami depth that pairs wonderfully with the beef and pork.

Presentation Tips

Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a pop of color. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top adds richness and balances the acidity of the tomato sauce. Serving with a side salad of fresh cucumbers and tomatoes with a light vinaigrette creates a complete and visually appealing meal.

For special occasions, try arranging the rolls in a circular pattern in a round baking dish rather than the traditional rows in a rectangular dish. This presentation looks impressive when brought to the table and makes serving easier as guests can help themselves.

Make-Ahead Options

These cabbage rolls are perfect for meal prep. Prepare and freeze unbaked rolls, then thaw and bake when needed to save time. Simply arrange the assembled rolls on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months and can be baked directly from frozen, just adding 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.

You can also prepare the filling and sauce a day ahead and store them separately in the refrigerator. This makes the actual assembly process much quicker on the day you plan to serve them, which is helpful for entertaining or busy weeknights.

Freezing Tip: If freezing, consider making double batches. The prep work is essentially the same, and you’ll thank yourself later on busy weeknights when dinner is already prepared.

These expert tips help refine your recipe for consistently delicious savory cabbage rolls with creative flair.

How to Store Savory Cabbage Rolls: Best Practices

Like most comfort foods, these cabbage rolls actually taste even better the next day as the flavors have time to develop and meld together. Proper storage ensures you can enjoy this delicious meal for days after making it, whether you’re meal prepping for the week or saving leftovers. Here are the best practices for storing your cabbage rolls.

Refrigeration

Store cooked savory cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness. They can be stored with or without the sauce, though keeping them sauced helps maintain moisture. If storing sauce separately, keep it in a separate container and reheat together when ready to eat.

When refrigerating, allow the rolls to cool completely before sealing the container to prevent condensation, which can make the cabbage soggy. You can enjoy these cold for lunch or gently reheated for dinner. They make excellent leftovers for work lunches as they reheat beautifully in the microwave.

Freezing

For long-term storage, freeze rolls individually wrapped in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. This method prevents freezer burn and makes it easy to thaw just the number of rolls you need.

Alternatively, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. This prevents them from sticking together and allows you to remove individual portions as needed. Be sure to label your containers with the date and contents so you can easily identify them later.

When freezing, it’s best to slightly undercook the rolls by about 10 minutes, as they will continue cooking when reheated. This prevents them from becoming mushy after freezing and reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently in the oven at 325°F (160°C) covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes, or microwave until heated through to preserve texture and flavor. If the rolls seem dry after refrigeration, add a splash of water or extra tomato sauce before reheating.

For frozen rolls, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, or bake directly from frozen at 350°F for about 45-50 minutes, covered with foil. If reheating from frozen, you may need to add a little extra sauce or water to prevent drying out.

To maintain the best texture, avoid overheating, which can cause the cabbage leaves to become tough. Reheat just until warmed through for the most enjoyable eating experience.

Meal Prep Considerations

Consider portioning rolls before freezing to allow quick thawing and convenient meal sizes. I like to portion them in groups of 2-3 rolls, which makes for a perfect single serving. Label your containers with the date so you can keep track of freshness.

These cabbage rolls are an excellent candidate for batch cooking. Since the recipe already makes a good quantity, you might as well double it and freeze half for future meals. This approach maximizes your time in the kitchen and ensures you always have a homemade meal ready to go.

Following these storage solutions ensures your savory cabbage rolls stay delicious and safe for later enjoyment, making this recipe an excellent choice for batch cooking and meal planning.

Nutritional Information

For those keeping track of their nutritional intake, here’s the breakdown per serving of these delicious savory cabbage rolls:

As you can see, these cabbage rolls provide a well-balanced meal with protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, plus important vitamins and minerals. For those watching their sodium intake, you can reduce the salt in both the sauce and filling. The cabbage contributes significantly to the Vitamin C content, while the meat provides iron and B vitamins.

The relatively low calorie count makes this a satisfying meal that won’t derail your health goals. The combination of protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates helps keep you feeling full longer, making these rolls an excellent choice for weight management when portion sizes are controlled.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Savory Cabbage Rolls

Savory Cabbage Rolls

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• Author: Brandi Oshea
• Total Time: 115 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

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Description

🥬 Experience the comforting richness of Stuffed Cabbage Rolls filled with savory meat and rice, perfect for a hearty family meal.
🍅 The tender cabbage wraps combined with a flavorful tomato sauce make this dish a timeless classic worth trying.

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Ingredients

– 1 head of green cabbage provides the tender yet sturdy leaves essential for wrapping

– 1/2 pound ground pork sausage adds rich flavor and seasonings to the filling

– 1/2 pound ground beef provides the main protein substance and classic taste

– 3/4 cup Minute Rice or long-grain parboiled white rice adds texture and helps bind the filling

– 1 large egg helps bind the filling together

– 1 small onion, finely chopped adds sweetness and depth

– 2 cloves garlic, minced enhances aroma and taste

– 1 cup tomato sauce keeps rolls moist and infuses a tangy richness

– 1 can (about 14.5 ounces) petite diced tomatoes adds texture to the sauce

– 1 tablespoon cider vinegar provides a tangy note to balance flavors

– 1 tablespoon brown sugar adds subtle sweetness to the sauce

– 1 teaspoon dried parsley adds fresh herbal notes

– 1 teaspoon paprika contributes color and mild flavor

– Salt and pepper to taste essential seasoning for balance

– 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing and adding richness

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion

– 2 cloves minced garlic

– 1 cup tomato sauce

– 1 can (about 14.5 ounces) petite diced tomatoes

– 1 tablespoon cider vinegar

– 1 tablespoon brown sugar

– 1/2 teaspoon salt

– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

– 1 large head green cabbage

– 1/2 pound ground pork sausage

– 1/2 pound ground beef

– 1/2 cup finely chopped onion

– 2 cloves minced garlic

– 1 large egg

– 3/4 cup Minute Rice or long-grain parboiled white rice

– 1 teaspoon dried parsley

– 1 teaspoon paprika

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Instructions

1-Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves Start by bringing a large pot of water to boil. Carefully place the whole head of cabbage into the boiling water and let it cook for 5 minutes to soften the leaves. This step is crucial as it makes the leaves pliable and less likely to tear when rolling. After 5 minutes, remove the cabbage, drain it, and let it cool until you can handle it comfortably. Once cooled, cut off about 1/2 inch from the stem end. This makes it much easier to separate the leaves. Carefully peel off 12 leaves, taking care not to tear them. For each leaf, you’ll need to cut out the tough rib in a V-shape to make rolling easier. Don’t worry if you make a few mistakes with the first few leaves, as you can use the damaged ones to line the baking dish later.

2-Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce While the cabbage is cooling, prepare the sauce. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the 1/2 cup of finely chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Reduce the heat and add the minced garlic, cooking for just 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Next, add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, cider vinegar, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. This creates a perfectly balanced sauce with just the right amount of sweetness and tanginess to complement the savory filling.

3-Step 3: Prepare the Baking Dish Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce mixture in the bottom of a 9×13 inch casserole dish. This not only prevents the rolls from sticking but also starts the flavoring process from the bottom up. If you have any leftover or damaged cabbage leaves, this is a great time to use them to line the bottom of the dish for extra flavor.

4-Step 4: Create the Meat Filling In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork sausage, ground beef, 1/2 cup finely chopped onion, minced garlic, large egg, uncooked Minute Rice, dried parsley, and paprika. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. The mixture should hold together when formed but not be overly dense. Note: The ground meat mixture does not need to be precooked. It will cook perfectly inside the cabbage leaves while baking, keeping the filling moist and flavorful.

5-Step 5: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls Now comes the fun part, assembling your cabbage rolls. Place about 1/3 cup of the meat mixture in the center of each cabbage leaf, near the stem end. Fold in the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll from the stem end toward the tip, creating a tight cylinder. The filling will expand slightly during cooking, so don’t overfill the leaves.

6-Step 6: Arrange and Sauce the Rolls Place the completed rolls seam-side down in a single layer in the prepared casserole dish. Make sure they’re nestled closely together but not overcrowded. Pour the remaining tomato sauce evenly over the rolls, ensuring each one gets coated in the delicious sauce.

7-Step 7: Bake to Perfection Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil. This is important because it creates a steamy environment that keeps the cabbage leaves tender. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 80-90 minutes. The rolls are done when the cabbage is very tender and the filling is cooked through. Remove the foil for the last 10 minutes if you’d like the tops to brown slightly. Allow the rolls to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps them set and makes them easier to serve.

Notes

🥬 Boiling cabbage softens leaves, making them easier to roll without tearing.
🍳 The ground meat mixture does not need to be precooked before rolling.
🍅 Covering the dish tightly while baking steams the rolls, keeping the leaves soft and flavorful.

• Prep Time: 35 minutes
• Cook Time: 80 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking, boiling, sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed cabbage roll
• Calories: 173 calories
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 154mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0.3g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 41mg

Keywords: Stuffed Cabbage Rolls,Meat and Rice Filling,Traditional Cabbage Rolls,Baked Cabbage Rolls