Introduction

Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to any dinner table. Tender cabbage leaves are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, onions, and herbs, then slowly baked in a rich tomato sauce. This classic dish, often passed down through generations, captures the essence of home-cooked love and hearty flavor. Whether for Sunday dinner or a cozy family meal, these cabbage rolls are sure to satisfy everyone.

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 large head of green cabbage
• 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg, lightly beaten
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp paprika
• ¼ tsp dried thyme (optional)

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully remove the core of the cabbage and place the whole head in the boiling water. Boil for 3–5 minutes, then peel off softened outer leaves. Repeat until you have about 10–12 large leaves. Set aside to cool.
2. Make the Filling: In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme until well combined.
3. Assemble the Rolls: Trim the thick vein from each cabbage leaf. Place 2–3 tablespoons of the meat mixture in the center of each leaf. Fold the sides over and roll tightly, tucking the ends under to seal.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In a medium saucepan, combine tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes over medium heat.
5. Bake the Rolls: Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down. Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the top. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 1½ to 2 hours, until the rolls are tender and fully cooked.

Description

These Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are the perfect balance of tender, juicy beef and soft, delicate cabbage bathed in a sweet and tangy tomato sauce. The slow baking process allows the flavors to blend beautifully, making each bite hearty and satisfying. It’s a dish that feels like a warm hug from the past — simple, humble, and full of flavor.