If you’re searching for a soul-soothing, nostalgic meal that feels like a warm hug from grandma, look no further than Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls. Tender cabbage leaves are wrapped around a hearty blend of savory beef, pork, and rice, then baked in a sweet-tangy tomato sauce that seeps into every bite. This dish brings history and heart to your table, perfect for special occasions or when you simply crave comfort food with real depth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls is how each humble ingredient works together to create something absolutely magical. These pantry staples provide layers of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, while the simple prep lets each element shine in every delicious bite.
- Green cabbage: The tender leaves turn silky during baking and are perfect for holding the flavorful filling together.
- Ground beef: Adds richness and satisfying heartiness to the stuffing.
- Ground pork: Lends essential juiciness and depth of flavor to balance the beef.
- Cooked white rice: Helps bind the filling and soaks up all those saucy flavors.
- Onion: Finely chopped for a delicate sweetness and gentle crunch in every roll.
- Garlic: Adds warmth and a subtle pungent kick that infuses the meat mixture.
- Large egg: Acts as a natural binder, helping the filling hold its shape.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning every layer, bringing out the best in the simple ingredients.
- Black pepper: A touch of pepper gives depth and gentle heat to the mix.
- Paprika: For color and an earthy flavor that lifts the filling.
- Tomato sauce: Forms the comforting base for the sauce, wrapping every roll in luscious flavor.
- Crushed tomatoes: Add body, freshness, and a rustic tomato intensity.
- Brown sugar: Balances the acidity in the tomatoes and gives the sauce a subtle caramel sweetness.
- Lemon juice: A splash of brightness that wakes up all the other flavors.
- Worcestershire sauce: Provides a savory backbone and that unmistakable umami depth to the sauce.
- Water: Thins the sauce to just the right consistency, ensuring every roll stays moist and tender.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil, then carefully remove the core from your cabbage. Gently lower the entire head into the boiling water. Let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, just until those outer leaves become soft and easy to peel away—like delicate green petals. Continue simmering and peeling until you have about a dozen nicely pliable leaves set aside. Pat them dry gently. If your leaves are extra big, you can trim the thick vein from the bottom for easier rolling.
Step 2: Make the Savory Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, cooked white rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Roll up your sleeves and get your hands in there—it’s the best way to blend everything thoroughly without making the filling tough. Everything should be well mixed, but avoid overworking to keep the stuffing juicy and tender.
Step 3: Roll the Cabbage Leaves
Lay a cabbage leaf flat on your work surface and place about a quarter-cup of the filling in the center. Fold in the sides like you’re wrapping a present, then roll from the bottom up into a tight, neat package—just like assembling a burrito. Repeat with the rest of the leaves and filling. The rolls should be snug but not overstuffed, so they cook evenly and hold together in the oven.
Step 4: Mix and Layer the Sauce
In a separate bowl, stir together the tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, brown sugar, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and water. This sauce is the secret that brings Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls to life, with its unique combination of bright, tangy, and just a touch of sweetness. Pour a thin layer into the bottom of your baking dish to keep the rolls from sticking or drying out during baking.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Nestle the cabbage rolls seam-side down into the baking dish over the sauce layer, fitting them close but not packed too tightly. Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the top so every roll gets its chance to soak up flavor. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake at 350°F for 1 hour; this gentle roasting time lets the flavors meld and the rolls tenderize beautifully. Remove the foil and bake another 15 to 20 minutes until the sauce is bubbling and caramelized in spots. Let the dish rest for 5 minutes before serving—a little patience here makes slicing and serving much easier!
How to Serve Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Garnishes
A flourish of chopped fresh parsley adds brightness and a pop of color to your platter of Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls. A generous grind of black pepper or a dollop of cool sour cream on the side brings a creamy contrast to the tangy tomato sauce. Don’t forget a sprinkle of paprika for a subtle smoky finish and a beautiful presentation.
Side Dishes
For a classic pairing, serve your Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with buttery mashed potatoes or fluffy boiled potatoes—the perfect vehicle for soaking up all that irresistible sauce. A simple cucumber salad or vinegary slaw can add brightness and crunch, rounding out the meal with something crisp and refreshing. A loaf of rustic bread never hurts, ready for sopping up every last drop.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re entertaining, arrange the rolls in a colorful casserole dish with extra sauce spooned over the top for a dramatic, share-at-the-table effect. For individual servings, nest two rolls together on a plate with a spoonful of sauce and a flourish of herbs. Another fun twist: try arranging them in mini cast iron skillets for a rustic, restaurant-worthy vibe right at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers something to look forward to. Be sure to store with extra sauce to keep the rolls moist and flavorful.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully. Once cooled, simply arrange the rolls (with plenty of sauce) in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment if needed. They’ll keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and you’ll have homemade comfort food at the ready for busy nights.
Reheating
Reheat Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls gently in a baking dish covered with foil at 325°F until warmed through, about 20 to 25 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions, adding an extra spoonful of sauce so nothing dries out. Either way, these rolls reheat beautifully and might taste even better the next day!
FAQs
Can I substitute the meat with something else?
Absolutely! For a lighter take on Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, ground turkey or even chicken works well. For a vegetarian version, sautéed mushrooms and lentils are a hearty and satisfying swap that stays true to the spirit of the dish.
Why do my cabbage leaves tear when rolling?
If your cabbage leaves are tearing, they may not be softened enough in the boiling step. Make sure to simmer the head just until the leaves become flexible. Overcooked leaves can become mushy, so aim for just-right tenderness. Removing the thick vein at the base of each leaf can also help prevent splitting.
Can I make Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the rolls and keep them covered in the refrigerator overnight before baking. This not only makes serving a breeze but also lets the flavors meld, creating an even more harmonious dish the next day.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It is! The filling uses cooked rice instead of breadcrumbs, and none of the other ingredients contain gluten. Always double-check your tomato sauce and Worcestershire for gluten if you’re highly sensitive, just to be safe.
What’s the best way to core a cabbage?
Use a sharp paring knife to cut a deep circle around the stem end of the cabbage and remove the core. Take your time, working the knife at an angle, and wiggle out the core before boiling. This opens up the leaves and makes them much easier to separate after blanching.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a pan of Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls bubbling away in the oven, filling your kitchen with memories and mouthwatering aroma. Whether you’re making them for the first time or carrying on a family tradition, this recipe delivers warmth, flavor, and a welcome taste of home. Gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and give this timeless classic a try—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Eastern European
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These old-fashioned stuffed cabbage rolls are a comforting and hearty dish that brings together a flavorful meat filling wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and baked in a savory tomato sauce. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special gathering.
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 1 large head green cabbage
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound ground pork
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage: Boil a large pot of water. Remove cabbage core and boil head for 5-7 minutes. Peel off softened leaves and set aside.
- Make the Filling: Mix beef, pork, rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika in a bowl.
- Assemble Rolls: Place meat mixture on cabbage leaves, roll up, and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Prepare Sauce: Combine tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, sugar, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Pour over rolls.
- Bake: Cover and bake at 350°F for 1 hour. Uncover and bake an additional 15-20 minutes.
- Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can prepare these ahead of time and refrigerate overnight before baking.
- For a leaner version, use all ground turkey.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 rolls
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
