Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

 

Hearty and Comforting Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a timeless dish enjoyed by cultures across the globe, from Eastern Europe to the Middle East. Packed with a flavorful filling of ground meat, rice, and aromatic herbs, then gently simmered in a rich tomato sauce, these rolls are the perfect marriage of simplicity and comfort. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or preparing meals ahead of time, stuffed cabbage rolls are sure to impress.

A Classic Dish with Deep Roots

Stuffed cabbage rolls—also known as golabki in Poland, sarma in the Balkans, or holubtsi in Ukraine—are steeped in tradition. While the ingredients and sauces may vary from one region to another, the essence remains the same: tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a hearty filling. This recipe honors that legacy with a well-balanced flavor and a comforting texture that makes it ideal for cozy nights or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Rolls:

• 1 large head of green cabbage

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef or pork (or a mix)

• 1 cup cooked rice

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 egg

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tsp paprika (optional)

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp sugar

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth (optional for added depth)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head in the boiling water. As the outer leaves soften (about 1-2 minutes), gently peel them off with tongs and set aside. Continue until you have about 10-12 large leaves. Trim the thick stem on each leaf to make them easier to roll.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, egg, parsley, and seasoning. Mix until just combined—don’t overwork the meat, or it may become tough.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

Place a heaping spoonful of the filling near the base of each cabbage leaf. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll up tightly like a burrito. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onion and garlic until translucent. Stir in the tomato paste, tomato sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Add broth if using. Simmer for 5–10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 5: Cook the Rolls

Place a few spoonfuls of sauce in the bottom of a large baking dish or Dutch oven. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a single layer. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls, covering them evenly.

Cover tightly with foil or a lid and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1 hour, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

Serve stuffed cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley. They pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a light cucumber salad.

Make Ahead & Storage

Stuffed cabbage rolls are ideal for meal prep—they taste even better the next day! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; just thaw and reheat gently on the stove or in the oven.

Final Thoughts

Few dishes offer the same blend of comfort, tradition, and heartiness as stuffed cabbage rolls. They're a labor of love, but the end result is always worth it. Whether you’re passing down a family recipe or trying them for the first time, this dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.