Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe (2024)

September 10, 2018 by Jocelyn (Grandbaby Cakes) · Updated October 29, 2023

This Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe is Golden! Fresh cabbage leaves are stuffed with rice and ground beef and complimented with a tangy flavorful tomato sauce seasoned with the best sensational spices. Each bite is pure comfort, and you’ll find yourself wanting to make these cabbage rolls for easy weeknight dinners and holiday gatherings.

Delicious Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Perfect For Entertaining!

As the seasons start changing and the weather begins to cool, oversized cozy sweaters find their way out of the closet and comfort food cravings kick in. We huddle over warm stoves stirring pots of stew, layering lasagnas and dolloping cookie dough both into our mouths and onto baking sheets. Although I can’t resist a nibble of homemade cookie dough, there is one other recipe I find myself craving time and time again.

What Are Stuffed Cabbage Rolls ?

The Stuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe originate from parts of Europe, Iran, West Asia andNorthern China with a variety of fillings and are either baked, simmered or steamed.

Here in the U.S., stuffed cabbage rolls are prominent in Cajun and Louisiana Creoles in the southern part of the country. No matter the variation, each of the regions create a unique and delicious take on this perfect comfort food. This one is definitely inspired by cajun cuisine, and has that spicy kick of flavor to prove it.

This recipe is as pure and comforting as they come. That warm bellied feeling that comes with each bite is something I look forward to every time I make these rolls.

Ingredients

The star of this stuffed cabbage rolls recipe is truly the filling. You won’t believe howdeeply flavored and tender the beef becomes. The cabbage not only adds a subtle earthyflavor but also makes the meal a slightly healthier dinner choice.

The major ingredients for the stuffing are:

• Ground chuck (you can also replace with ground turkey as well for a lighter option)
• Onion
• Bell pepper
• Celery
• Rice
• Tomatoes
• Spices

Those are the basic flavors that fill the lettuce.

Finally, the tomato sauce topping balances the heat, acidity and sweetness that compliments each of the other ingredients perfectly.

How To Make Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

• Preparation is Key: Start by boiling a generous amount of water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling, add the whole cabbage and let it cook for a solid 5 minutes. This is going to make peeling those leaves off a whole lot easier.
• Leaf Removal: After boiling, carefully remove the cabbage and start peeling off the large leaves. These are what you’ll use to wrap up the tasty filling.
• Mix It Up: In a bowl, combine ground chuck, diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Throw in the rice, half of your tomatoes and tomato sauce, and season with salt, pepper, and a dash of cayenne for that kick. Mix well.
• Roll ‘Em Up: Take a cabbage leaf, place a rounded tablespoon of your meat mixture in the center, and roll it up tight, tucking in the edges as you go.
• Layer and Cook: Place the rolls seam side down in a large, heavy pot. Pour the remaining tomatoes and tomato sauce over them, sprinkle with more salt (and cayenne if you’re feeling spicy), and cover tightly.
• Steam to Perfection: Let the rolls steam over medium-low heat for about 1 to 1 1/2 hours. You’re aiming for tender perfection.

Storage

Storing:

Before storing, let the cabbage rolls come to room temperature. Place the rolls in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

To freeze, wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap and place them in a zip-lock freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.

Reheating:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cabbage rolls in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and reheat for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. If frozen, extend the reheating time to 30-40 minutes.

For a quick option, place a cabbage roll on a microwave-safe plate, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, and heat on medium for 1-2 minutes, checking every 30 seconds to avoid overcooking.

Can You Make Cabbage Rolls In a Slow Cooker?

Absolutely! Just add and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until tender.

How To Make Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Simply omit meat and continue recipe as planned.

• This Classic Beef Stew is as comforting as it comes.
• This Chicken Fried Steak is a favorite of my followers! They say it is truly the best they have ever had!
• This Succotash recipe is also an incredible side dish with tons of Southern flair!
• And don’t forget this New Orleans BBQ Shrimp and Grits for more creole flavor!
• Or this Shrimp Etouffee!

*Did you make this recipe? Please give it a star rating and leave comments below!*