Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re craving comfort food with a nostalgic twist, this classic old-fashioned stuffed cabbage rolls recipe is a must-try. It’s hearty, satisfying, and filled with tender cabbage leaves stuffed with beef, rice, and a rich tomato sauce. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this easy cabbage roll recipe is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Pure Comfort
Nothing says homemade goodness like stuffed cabbage with beef simmered in a savory tomato sauce. Every bite is a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and warmth, making it the ultimate busy day hero.
Ingredients – What You Need
For the Stuffed Cabbage Rolls:
- ⅔ cup water
- ⅓ cup uncooked white rice
- 8 cabbage leaves
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ¼ cup chopped onion
- 1 large egg, slightly beaten
- ½ can (10.5 ounces) condensed tomato soup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
For the Sauce:
- ½ can (10.5 ounces) condensed tomato soup
- ½ cup water (or beef broth for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for slight sweetness)
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (for depth of flavor)
Time to Cook
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Steps to Make It
1. Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
- Boil a large pot of water.
- Carefully remove 8 cabbage leaves and blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, just until softened.
- Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Rice
- In a small saucepan, combine ⅔ cup water and ⅓ cup rice.
- Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer until tender, about 15 minutes.
3. Make the Filling
- In a bowl, mix ground beef, chopped onion, cooked rice, egg, salt, black pepper, and half the tomato soup.
4. Assemble the Rolls
- Lay each cabbage leaf flat and place about ¼ cup of the filling in the center.
- Roll up, tucking in the sides as you go.
5. Cook the Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
- Place rolls seam-side down in a greased baking dish or a large skillet.
- Mix the remaining tomato soup, water, sugar, and Worcestershire sauce. Pour over the cabbage rolls.
- Cover and simmer for 45 minutes on the stovetop or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
Make It Perfect
- Don’t overfill the cabbage leaves – a small amount of filling ensures they roll up neatly.
- Use a deep baking dish or skillet to keep the rolls from unraveling.
- Low and slow cooking allows the flavors to blend beautifully.
Mix It Up
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner, healthy cabbage rolls variation.
- Try using brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for extra nutrition.
- Add a dash of paprika or garlic powder for extra flavor.
Perfect Partners
Pair your classic old-fashioned stuffed cabbage rolls with:
- Mashed potatoes for extra comfort
- Crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce
- Steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal
Busy Day Hero
This easy cabbage roll recipe is great for busy days since it can be prepped ahead and reheated quickly.
Work Ahead
Make the stuffed cabbage rolls a day in advance and let them sit in the fridge overnight—this enhances the flavor.
Save Some For Later
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze cooked cabbage rolls for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Everyone’s Happy
Kids, adults, and guests alike will love these healthy cabbage rolls packed with protein and fiber.
Good For You Too
This stuffed cabbage with beef dish is rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it both comforting and nutritious.
Easy Clean Up
With just one skillet or baking dish, cleanup is a breeze!
Switch It Up
Try using savoy cabbage for a more tender texture or swapping the tomato sauce for marinara or a creamy tomato blend.
Simply Perfect
This classic old-fashioned stuffed cabbage rolls recipe is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special.
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the cabbage rolls and refrigerate them overnight before cooking.
2. How do I keep my cabbage leaves from tearing?
Blanch them in hot water just until soft and pliable.
3. Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Green cabbage works best, but red cabbage can be used for a slightly different flavor.
4. Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. What if I don’t have tomato soup?
Substitute with tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes mixed with a little sugar.
6. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative.
7. What side dishes go well with stuffed cabbage rolls?
Mashed potatoes, garlic bread, or a light cucumber salad complement the dish perfectly.
Conclusion
This classic old-fashioned stuffed cabbage rolls recipe is the ultimate comfort food, filled with flavor, nostalgia, and hearty goodness. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or freezing a batch for later, this easy cabbage roll recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and enjoy a delicious meal that’s both traditional and timeless
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