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Plate of savory meat-stuffed cabbage rolls ready to enjoy.

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

A comforting dish of cabbage leaves filled with a savory beef and rice mixture, topped with a flavorful tomato sauce, perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cabbage and Filling
  • 1 large head Green cabbage Ensure it's firm for enough leaves.
  • 1 lb Ground beef (or pork) Use a quality blend for richer flavor.
  • 1 cup Cooked white rice Leftover rice works great.
  • 1/4 cup Fresh parsley, chopped Adds a bright, fresh note.
Sauce
  • 2 cans Crushed tomatoes Opt for fire-roasted for extra flavor.
  • 1 medium Chopped onion For depth in sauce.
  • 2 cloves Minced garlic Brings aromatic flavor.
  • 1 large Egg Helps bind the filling.
  • 1 tbsp Paprika For a subtle flavor addition.
  • 1 tbsp Sugar Balances acidity in sauce.
  • 1 tsp Oregano Adds herbal flavor.
  • to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch the cabbage leaves for about 2-3 minutes until tender but not mushy.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Assembly
  1. Lay out a cabbage leaf, place a generous scoop of filling at the base, and roll it tightly, tucking in the sides.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté chopped onions and garlic until fragrant.
  3. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  4. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour half the sauce into a baking dish, arrange the rolls seam-side down, and top them with the remaining sauce.
Cooking
  1. Bake covered for 45 minutes. Once done, the cabbage should be tender, and the filling should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Notes

Don't overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking. Bring the ingredients to room temperature for easier mixing. Make extra sauce for serving.