Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

If comfort food had a crown jewel, it would undoubtedly be this Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe. Imagine tender cabbage leaves lovingly wrapped around a rich, savory filling of Italian sausage, ground chuck, rice, and aromatic herbs, all slow-baked in a tangy-sweet tomato sauce until meltingly tender. This dish is not just hearty and delicious, it’s a celebration of home-cooked goodness that warms the soul and brings everyone together around the table. Whether it’s for a family feast or a special occasion, these cabbage rolls deliver layers of flavor and texture that captivate with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting this Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe requires ingredients you likely already appreciate in your kitchen, each contributing to a balanced harmony of taste, texture, and color. From the mild sweetness of the cabbage to the robust mix of meats and subtle spice from herbs, these essentials make the magic happen.

• 1 large head of cabbage, cored but left whole: This is the vessel that embraces the flavorful filling with its tender, pliable leaves.
• 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter: Adds a silky richness, used to soften onions and finish the sauce for depth of flavor.
• 1 large onion, finely diced: Slowly caramelized onions provide a sweet and savory base that’s key to the filling’s complexity.
• 1 pound (454g) bulk Italian sausage: Brings herby, seasoned goodness and juicy texture to the filling.
• 1 pound (454g) ground chuck: Adds a hearty, tender meatiness that balances the sausage’s boldness.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to hold the filling together perfectly.
• 1/4 cup minced flat-leaf Italian parsley: Fresh and vibrant, parsley lifts the flavor and colors the filling naturally.
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano: Imparts a warm, earthy herbal note reminiscent of classic Italian cooking.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika: Subtly smoky and sweet, paprika rounds out the seasoning boldly.
• 1 cup (227g) cooked long grain rice: Light and fluffy, rice gives the filling body and comforting texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Just a hint of heat to awaken all the layers of taste.
• 2 teaspoons fine sea salt: Essential for enhancing every ingredient’s natural flavors.
• 1 6-ounce can tomato paste: The backbone of the sauce, concentrating rich tomato goodness with a touch of sweetness.
• 4 cups (~1L) water: Helps create the perfect simmering sauce that also steams the rolls during baking.
• 1 tablespoon (13g) brown sugar: Balances acidity with gentle caramel notes.
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) cider vinegar: Adds a pleasant tang that brightens the whole dish.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: To finish seasoning the sauce perfectly.
• 3 tablespoons (42g) unsalted butter, optional: Swirled in at the end to make the sauce luxuriously velvety.

How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and positioning the rack in the middle. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then immerse the whole cored cabbage. Turn it gently every few minutes, letting the leaves soften enough for rolling—usually about 10 minutes. Carefully transfer the cabbage to a colander to drain. Once cool enough to handle, gently separate 16 leaves for stuffing. If any leaves are still too firm, pop the cabbage back into the pot for a few more minutes until pliable. This step is crucial because perfectly softened leaves will wrap without cracking, holding all that delicious filling securely.

Step 2: Cook the Onions

While the cabbage cools, warm a frying pan over medium heat. Add butter and the finely diced onions plus a pinch of salt. Allow the onions to cook slowly for 12 to 15 minutes until they become very soft and just begin to caramelize. The slow cooking releases their natural sweetness, adding wonderful complexity to the filling that you don’t want to rush. Keep an eye on them and stir occasionally so they don’t brown too quickly.

Step 3: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the caramelized onions, cooked rice, bulk Italian sausage, ground chuck, minced parsley, dried oregano, paprika, black pepper, sea salt, and the egg. Mix thoroughly, ideally with your hands or a sturdy spoon, till everything is homogenous and evenly seasoned. This mixture is the heart of your Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe—rich, savory, and perfectly herbed.

Step 4: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

Place each softened cabbage leaf flat on a cutting board. Using a paring knife, carefully cut out the thick rib by making a shallow v-shaped or wedge cut about 1 to 2 inches down the leaf’s center. Removing this tough part makes the leaf easier to roll tightly around the filling and prevents cracking during baking. Repeat with all prepared leaves.

Step 5: Fill and Roll the Cabbage

Now, the fun part! Spoon about one-third of a cup (roughly 65 grams) of your filling mix right onto the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold the cut edges over the filling, then tuck in the sides and roll up the leaf burrito-style to completely enclose the delicious filling inside. Take your time to make sure the rolls are snug, sealing all those good flavors within. Repeat this process until all the filling and leaves are used.

Step 6: Arrange in Baking Dish

Lay the stuffed cabbage rolls seam side down in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Depending on your dish size, you may need two to fit all 16 rolls comfortably, so don’t crowd them—they need space to cook evenly and absorb the sauce.

Step 7: Make the Sauce

Warm the water in a kettle or microwave to dissolve the tomato paste easily. Combine the hot water with tomato paste, brown sugar, and cider vinegar in a bowl. Stir thoroughly and taste—then season with salt and pepper as needed. This sauce is both tangy and slightly sweet, perfectly complementing the rich meaty rolls.

Step 8: Assemble and Bake

Pour the prepared sauce over the arranged cabbage rolls, ensuring they are mostly submerged. Add extra hot water if necessary to cover most of the rolls. Cover the dish tightly with foil to lock in moisture and bake for 2 to 3 hours. The long bake time is what softens the cabbage to luscious tenderness and melds all the flavors. If the sauce gets too thick or dry during baking, add an extra ½ to 1 cup of water to keep it juicy and saucy.

Step 9: Finish and Serve

Once baking is complete, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 15 minutes. If you find the sauce a bit thin, carefully transfer the rolls to a serving platter and pour the sauce into a pot. Simmer over medium-high heat until it thickens to your liking. For that extra velvety touch, whisk in the optional 3 tablespoons of cold butter one piece at a time off the heat. Pour this luscious sauce over the cabbage rolls just before serving to create an irresistible, glossy finish.

How to Serve Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dollop of sour cream make a beautiful, fresh contrast to the tender, savory rolls. A squeeze of lemon or a few red pepper flakes can also add a bright, zesty note that wakes up the palate and balances the richness perfectly.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with creamy mashed potatoes, buttery egg noodles, or crusty artisan bread to soak up that heavenly sauce. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette also offers a nice refreshing balance to the hearty cabbage rolls, making the meal feel complete without overwhelming your taste buds.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, arrange the Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe in a circular pattern on a large platter, drizzling the sauce artistically over the top. You might also serve individual rolls in small ramekins with extra sauce ladled around for a rustic presentation that feels both intimate and inviting—perfect for dinner parties or holiday gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your leftover stuffed cabbage rolls will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making next-day servings even more delightful. Just make sure they are covered well to maintain moisture.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe later, they freeze wonderfully. Assemble and roll the cabbage leaves, then place them in a freezer-safe dish or container with sauce. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, transfer the rolls and sauce to a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 325°F oven until heated through, about 30 to 40 minutes. Alternatively, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce from sticking and to warm the rolls evenly.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat in this Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground pork, turkey, or even a mix of beef and pork can all be delicious alternatives. Just remember that fattier meats tend to keep the filling juicy and flavorful.

Do I have to cook the rice before mixing the filling?

Yes, cooking the rice beforehand ensures it’s tender and absorbs flavors properly. Using uncooked rice will result in an uneven texture and undercooked grains in the filling.

How can I tell when the cabbage leaves are soft enough to roll?

The cabbage leaves should feel flexible and almost tender to the bite but not falling apart. If they crack or feel stiff, they need a little more time blanching in hot water.

What can I substitute for bulk Italian sausage if I can’t find it?

You can use regular Italian sausage removed from casings or mix ground pork with Italian seasoning to get a similar flavor. Adjust the seasoning to taste for the best results.

Is it necessary to cover the baking dish with foil during cooking?

Yes, covering with foil traps steam and moisture, which is essential for tenderizing the cabbage leaves and keeping everything juicy throughout the long bake.

Final Thoughts

This Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe is one of those lovingly crafted dishes that turns everyday ingredients into a memorable meal full of warmth and comfort. Whether you’re new to making cabbage rolls or a longtime fan, this recipe delivers consistently tender, flavorful results that your family and friends will adore. Give it a try—it just may become your new favorite go-to comfort classic.

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