Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce

Introduction

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a traditional and hearty dish enjoyed in many cultures, from Eastern Europe to the Mediterranean.

Known for their comforting flavors and rich, satisfying filling, these cabbage rolls are a delicious blend of tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory mixture of ground meat, rice, and aromatic spices.

Covered in a tangy tomato sauce and baked to perfection, they make for a wholesome meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

This recipe elevates the classic stuffed cabbage rolls by incorporating melted cheese for an extra layer of indulgence.

Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a gathering, this dish is guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

Plus, it’s a great make-ahead recipe, as the flavors deepen and improve over time.

Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide to making the ultimate stuffed cabbage rolls with tomato sauce.

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls:

1 large head of cabbage

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

1 cup of cooked white rice

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves of garlic, minced

1 teaspoon of smoked paprika

1 teaspoon of dried oregano

1 teaspoon of salt

1/2 teaspoon of black pepper

1 egg, lightly beaten

For the Tomato Sauce:

2 cups of tomato sauce (canned or homemade)

1/4 cup of beef broth (or water)

1 tablespoon of olive oil

1 teaspoon of sugar (to balance the acidity of the tomatoes)

1/2 teaspoon of dried basil

1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

For Topping:

1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese

1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and carefully place the whole cabbage head into the pot. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until the outer leaves become soft and pliable.
2. Remove the cabbage and allow it to cool slightly. Gently peel off 10-12 large leaves, being careful not to tear them. Trim the thick stem at the base of each leaf to make them easier to roll.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and beaten egg. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated but avoid overmixing, as this can make the filling dense.

Step 3: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

1. Lay one cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Place 2-3 tablespoons of the filling near the base of the leaf.
2. Fold in the sides of the leaf and roll it up tightly, starting from the base and rolling towards the top. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
3. If any cabbage leaves are too small or torn, layer them at the bottom of the baking dish to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the tomato sauce, beef broth, sugar, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Bake the Cabbage Rolls

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a single layer on top of the sauce.
3. Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls, ensuring they are well-covered.
4. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove the foil, sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the rolls, and bake uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

• Let the cabbage rolls rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Conclusion

These Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce are a labor of love, but the results are well worth the effort.

With their hearty filling, tender cabbage wrapping, and flavorful tomato sauce, they deliver a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

The melted cheese topping adds a decadent twist, making this dish even more irresistible.

This recipe is highly adaptable — you can substitute the ground beef with turkey or chicken, use brown rice instead of white rice, or add shredded carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition.

The leftovers reheat beautifully and make for a convenient and delicious meal the next day.