There’s a certain charm in the kitchen when the air is fragrant with tomato sauce and spices, evoking images of hearty family meals shared around the table. Cabbage rolls have a way of bringing people together, reminding me of cozy dinners spent with loved ones, laughter echoing against the walls. Filled with a savory blend of ground beef, Italian sausage, and rice, each roll is a delightful little package bursting with flavor.
I stumbled upon this cherished recipe while rummaging through my grandmother’s old cookbook, each page holding years of culinary wisdom. The simple act of wrapping tender cabbage leaves around a delicious filling transforms the ordinary into the extraordinary, and they’re versatile enough to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a dish that’ll impress at gatherings, these cabbage rolls fit the bill perfectly. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and create a meal that warms both the heart and the home!
Why are Cabbage Rolls a must-try?
Irresistible comfort: Nothing says “home” quite like a plate of cabbage rolls, filled with savory goodness that warms the soul.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether for family dinners or potlucks, these rolls are sure to impress!
Time-saving: Make a batch to enjoy leftovers, saving valuable time during busy weeks.
Versatile flavors: Customize your filling to suit your tastes, from spicy to mild, making them perfect for everyone.
Heartwarming memories: Each bite not only tastes good but reminds us of shared meals and happy moments.
Dive into these tasty rolls today, and if you’re looking for more cozy recipes, check out our comforting casseroles!
Cabbage Rolls Ingredients
For the Cabbage
• 1 head cabbage – Look for a fresh, vibrant head that feels heavy for its size, ensuring tender leaves.
For the Sauce
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce – This forms the base of your sauce, giving it a rich flavor.
• 1 can (10.25 ounces) condensed tomato soup – Adds creaminess and depth, enhancing the sauce’s taste.
• 1 teaspoon paprika – This spice introduces a warm, smoky flavor to the cabbage rolls.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – A must for that Italian twist, adding a hint of earthiness.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for bringing out all the other flavors in your dish.
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper – Adds a gentle kick to elevate the overall taste.
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper – For those who like it spicy! Adjust according to your heat preference.
For the Filling
• 1 pound ground mild Italian sausage – Offers a savory richness that pairs beautifully with the beef.
• 1 pound ground beef – Provides a hearty backbone to the filling, making it satisfying.
• 1 cup (186 g) cooked long-grain white rice – Helps bind the filling and adds a nice texture.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced – Brings sweetness and depth of flavor to your filling.
• 2 teaspoons garlic, minced – Infuses the mixture with a fragrant aroma that’s hard to resist.
• 1 large egg – Acts as a binder to hold your filling together.
For Garnish
• Parsley, chopped for garnish – Fresh parsley adds color and a fresh note to the finished dish.
Gather these ingredients to create your unforgettable cabbage rolls, and prepare to savor each delightful bite!
How to Make Cabbage Rolls
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Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set it aside for later use!
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Boil a large pot of water, filling it about halfway. Carefully add the whole head of cabbage and cover. Cook for 7-10 minutes until the leaves are tender and soft.
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Drain the cabbage carefully, using tongs to remove it from the pot. Allow it to cool slightly before peeling off the outer leaves with gentle hands.
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Cut the thick vein from each cabbage leaf to ensure rolling is easy. You will need 12 large leaves. Set them aside, ready to be filled!
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Combine in a large bowl the tomato sauce, condensed tomato soup, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper. Mix well and set the flavorful sauce aside.
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Mix in a separate bowl the Italian sausage, ground beef, cooked rice, diced onion, minced garlic, egg, and ½ cup of the prepared sauce mixture. Ensure it’s combined evenly for a delightful filling!
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Spread ½ cup of the sauce mixture across the bottom of the baking dish. This will add moisture to the cabbage rolls as they bake.
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Fill one softened cabbage leaf on a clean surface with ½ cup of the meat mixture. Fold the sides towards the center and roll tightly. Place the roll seam side down into the baking dish. Repeat until all the filling is used!
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Pour the rest of the sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls, ensuring every roll is generously coated in that rich sauce.
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Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature of the rolls reaches 145°F. The aroma will be heavenly!
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Uncover the dish and baste the cabbage rolls with the sauce. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the rolls are perfectly tender.
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Garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness, and serve the cabbage rolls warm. Enjoy the comforting flavors!
Optional: Try adding a sprinkle of cheese on top before baking for a decadent twist.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Cabbage Rolls
Fridge: Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to enjoy later!
Freezer: Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last in the freezer for up to 3 months, perfect for quick meals!
Reheating: For the best results, reheat cabbage rolls in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Enjoy every warm, delicious bite!
Cabbage Rolls Variations
Feel free to play with flavors and ingredients to make these cabbage rolls uniquely yours!
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Vegetarian: Substitute meat with 1 cup of cooked lentils and add diced mushrooms for a hearty filling.
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Spicy: Use hot Italian sausage or add diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for an extra kick.
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Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like dill or basil into the filling for a fragrant twist that brightens each bite.
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Cheesy: Sprinkle feta or mozzarella cheese into the filling or on top before baking, adding creaminess and flavor.
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Rice Alternatives: Try quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice instead of long-grain white rice for a texture twist.
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Tomato-Free: Swap the sauce with homemade pesto or a garlic-and-olive-oil drizzle for a unique flavor profile.
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Asian Influence: Use ground pork and add soy sauce, ginger, and green onions to the filling for an Asian-inspired version.
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Nutty Flavor: Incorporate chopped walnuts or pine nuts into the meat mixture for a delightful crunch and depth.
Get creative with these variations and delight your family at the dinner table!
Expert Tips for Cabbage Rolls
Choose the Right Cabbage: Look for a firm, fresh head that’s heavy for its size. This ensures you have tender, pliable leaves perfect for wrapping.
Remove the Veins: When preparing the cabbage leaves, be sure to cut out the thick center vein. This makes rolling easier and prevents tearing the leaves.
Don’t Overstuff: It’s tempting to pack the filling tightly, but overstuffed rolls can burst while baking. Aim for about ½ cup of filling per leaf to keep them intact.
Basting is Key: Uncover your dish during the last bake and baste the rolls with the sauce to keep them moist and flavorful as they cook to perfection.
Cool Before Serving: Allow the cabbage rolls to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the filling set and makes them easier to serve without falling apart.
Prepare to savor these delightful cabbage rolls—your family will love them!
Make Ahead Options
These Cabbage Rolls are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prep the cabbage leaves and filling up to 24 hours ahead. Simply follow the recipe until rolling the cabbage, then store the leaves wrapped in damp paper towels in an airtight container in the fridge. Keep the meat mixture stored separately in another airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy your cabbage rolls, just assemble them, pour over the prepared sauce, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have delicious, homemade cabbage rolls ready to warm your heart with minimal effort! They’ll taste just as delightful as if made fresh that day!
What to Serve with Cabbage Rolls?
Elevate your meal and create a cozy dining experience with these delightful pairings.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture complements the savory cabbage rolls perfectly, adding a comforting vibe to your plate.
- Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery side that adds flavor and is perfect for soaking up the rich tomato sauce. The crunch of each bite contrasts beautifully with the softness of the rolls.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned veggies bring a fresh, vibrant touch, balancing the hearty flavors of the cabbage rolls with their natural sweetness.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing crunch makes an excellent pairing, cutting through the richness with its tangy profile and crisp texture.
- Side Salad: A light mixed greens salad tossed with a lemon vinaigrette provides a delightful contrast, enhancing the meal with bright, fresh notes.
- Cucumber Salad: This cool, crisp salad adds a refreshing crunch to your meal, providing a satisfying contrast to the warm cabbage rolls.
- Wine Pairing: A light-bodied red wine, like Pinot Noir, enhances the meal, complementing the flavor profile without overpowering it. Try a chilled white wine for a refreshing contrast!
- Apple Crisp: Finish your meal with a cozy dessert, as the sweetness and warmth of this classic treat beautifully round off the evening.
Savor these pairings alongside your cabbage rolls for a fulfilling, heartwarming dining experience!
Cabbage Rolls Recipe FAQs
Can I use any type of cabbage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is the most commonly used for cabbage rolls due to its tender leaves that are easy to wrap, savoy cabbage is also a fantastic option. Its crinkly leaves add a delightful texture and taste, making your rolls even more delicious!
How should I store leftover cabbage rolls?
Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and ready to enjoy later. If you want to keep them longer, it’s best to freeze them!
Can I freeze cabbage rolls? If so, how?
Yes! Freezing cabbage rolls is easy. Start by letting them cool completely after baking. Then, wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat!
What should I do if my cabbage leaves keep tearing?
If your cabbage leaves are tearing, it’s likely because they aren’t soft enough. Make sure to boil them for the full 7-10 minutes until they’re tender. Also, carefully cut the thick center vein from each leaf to make rolling easier. If they still tear, don’t worry! Simply use the torn leaves as a base for other rolls—they can still be delicious!
Are cabbage rolls safe for pets?
While cabbage is generally safe for pets in small amounts, be cautious! If your furry friend is sensitive to fiber or has digestive issues, it’s best to avoid giving them cabbage rolls. Always consult your veterinarian for dietary advice tailored to your pet.
Can I make cabbage rolls gluten-free?
Yes, you can easily make cabbage rolls gluten-free! Just substitute the regular soy sauce or any other gluten-containing ingredients in the recipe with gluten-free alternatives, and ensure that your sausage and other packaged ingredients are also gluten-free. Enjoy a delightful and safe meal without compromising on flavor!
Delicious Cabbage Rolls: A Cozy, Homemade Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Set it aside for later use!
- Boil a large pot of water, filling it about halfway. Carefully add the whole head of cabbage and cover. Cook for 7-10 minutes until the leaves are tender and soft.
- Drain the cabbage carefully, using tongs to remove it from the pot. Allow it to cool slightly before peeling off the outer leaves with gentle hands.
- Cut the thick vein from each cabbage leaf to ensure rolling is easy. You will need 12 large leaves. Set them aside, ready to be filled!
- Combine in a large bowl the tomato sauce, condensed tomato soup, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper. Mix well and set the flavorful sauce aside.
- Mix in a separate bowl the Italian sausage, ground beef, cooked rice, diced onion, minced garlic, egg, and ½ cup of the prepared sauce mixture. Ensure it's combined evenly for a delightful filling!
- Spread ½ cup of the sauce mixture across the bottom of the baking dish.
- Fill one softened cabbage leaf with ½ cup of the meat mixture. Fold the sides towards the center and roll tightly. Place the roll seam side down into the baking dish. Repeat until all the filling is used!
- Pour the rest of the sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour, or until the internal temperature of the rolls reaches 145°F.
- Uncover the dish and baste the cabbage rolls with the sauce. Bake for an additional 10-12 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the rolls are perfectly tender.
- Garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness, and serve the cabbage rolls warm.