Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef and Vegetables are a hearty and wholesome dish made by wrapping tender cabbage leaves around a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, rice, and vegetables, then baking them in a flavorful tomato sauce. This classic comfort food is nutritious, filling, and ideal for a family meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nutritious and Satisfying: Packed with protein, vegetables, and grains in one balanced dish.
Classic Comfort Food: A traditional recipe that brings warmth and nostalgia.
Meal Prep Friendly: Great for making ahead and storing for the week.
Budget-Conscious: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that stretch well.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Green cabbage
Ground beef
Cooked rice
Onion (finely chopped)
Carrots (grated)
Garlic (minced)
Canned crushed tomatoes
Tomato paste
Olive oil
Salt and black pepper
Paprika
Dried herbs (thyme, oregano, or Italian seasoning)
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Cabbage Leaves: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Core the cabbage and gently separate the leaves. Blanch the leaves for 2–3 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onions, grated carrots, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until well incorporated.
Fill and Roll: Lay a cabbage leaf flat, place a spoonful of filling at the base, fold in the sides, and roll tightly. Repeat with remaining leaves.
Prepare the Sauce: In a saucepan, heat olive oil, sauté garlic, then add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, herbs, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
Assemble the Rolls: Pour a small amount of sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down. Cover with remaining sauce.
Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, until the rolls are cooked through and tender.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6 servings (approximately 12 rolls)
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Turkey or Pork: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or pork for a lighter version.
Add Beans: Mix in cooked lentils or beans for added fiber and protein.
Spicy Version: Add a dash of chili flakes to the meat mixture and sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze individually wrapped rolls in sauce for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil, or microwave until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use red cabbage instead of green?

Green cabbage is traditional and more flexible, but red cabbage can be used. Note it may take longer to soften.

Do I have to cook the rice first?

Yes, using cooked rice ensures the filling cooks evenly and avoids excess moisture.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the meat with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based ground meat alternatives.

What’s the best way to soften cabbage leaves?

Boiling the whole head briefly or microwaving it in a covered dish with a bit of water works well.

Can I prepare the rolls ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the rolls up to a day in advance and bake just before serving.

Should the rolls be completely covered in sauce?

Yes, covering them in sauce keeps them moist and enhances flavor during baking.

What sides go well with this dish?

Serve with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple green salad.

How do I prevent the rolls from falling apart?

Ensure the rolls are tightly wrapped and placed seam-side down in the baking dish.

Can I use quinoa instead of rice?

Yes, cooked quinoa is a great gluten-free substitute with a similar texture.

How long can I keep leftovers in the fridge?

Leftovers can be kept refrigerated for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef and Vegetables are a wholesome and comforting classic. With their savory filling and rich tomato sauce, they make an excellent dinner for any night of the week. Easy to prepare in batches and store, this dish is a practical and delicious option for busy families or meal preppers.

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef and Vegetables

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Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef and Vegetables are a classic comfort food featuring tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory beef, rice, and veggie filling, baked in a rich tomato sauce. Nutritious, satisfying, and perfect for family meals.

Author: Emma Harper
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 6 servings (approximately 12 rolls) 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Eastern European
Diet: Halal

Instructions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Core the cabbage and separate leaves. Blanch for 2–3 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, onion, carrot, 1 clove minced garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
Lay a cabbage leaf flat, place a spoonful of filling at the base, fold in sides, and roll tightly. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
Heat olive oil in a saucepan. Sauté remaining garlic until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, herbs, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10–15 minutes.
Pour a layer of sauce in a baking dish. Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down. Cover with remaining sauce.
Cover dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour until rolls are tender and fully cooked.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.