Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish is one of those comforting meals that warms your soul and fills your belly. I remember the first time I tried it at a family gathering, where my great-aunt spent hours in the kitchen, laughing and chatting as she lovingly prepared the cabbage rolls. The smell of the savory filling and tomato sauce filled the air, making everyone eagerly anticipate dinner. This dish is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to bond with family and friends while sharing a hearty meal. If you’re looking for a satisfying, homemade dish that brings people together, Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish is a great choice.
Why Make This Recipe
There are so many reasons why you’ll love making Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish! First, it’s a very comforting recipe that has stood the test of time. Not only is it scrumptious, but it also showcases simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen.
Cooking this dish can also be a delightful family activity. Rolling up the cabbage leaves together can be a fun task, especially for kids. They can help mix the filling and even roll the cabbage for you. The satisfaction you get from creating something delicious together is priceless.
The flavors in this dish are rich and deeply satisfying. As it bakes, the cabbage becomes tender and absorbs the sauce’s wonderful flavors. When you finally take the first bite, you’ll experience a warm embrace of deliciousness that fills you with joy. And if you have any leftovers, they taste even better the next day!
How to Make Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish
Making Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish is quite straightforward. The process is easy enough for beginner cooks, yet satisfying for anyone who loves good food. Start by gathering all your ingredients and letting yourself enjoy the cooking experience.
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). The warmth from the oven will make your kitchen feel cozy as you work. While waiting, let’s prepare the filling! In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, chopped cabbage, chopped onion, uncooked rice, and salt. Feel free to get your hands dirty; it’s the best way to mix the ingredients. Make sure everything is well combined, but don’t overmix, as that can make the meat tough.
Next, you’ll need to prepare the cabbage leaves. You can use fresh cabbage leaves that you blanch in boiling water for just a minute to soften them up. This step makes it easier to roll. Take a handful of the filling mixture and place it on a cabbage leaf, then fold in the sides and roll it up tightly, tucking the ends in as you go. It might take a few tries to get the rolling just right, but don’t worry—it’s all about practice!
Once you’ve rolled all your cabbage leaves, you’re ready to put them in a baking dish. Arrange them neatly in a single layer. Now, pour the canned tomato sauce and beef broth over the rolls, making sure they are well covered. Cover the dish with foil to keep everything moist while baking.
Finally, pop the dish into your preheated oven. Let it bake for 1.5 to 2 hours until the rolls are tender. As they cook, your home will fill with the amazing aroma of beef, tomato, and cabbage mingling together. When the cabbage rolls are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.
Ingredients
Here’s a list of the ingredients you will need for Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish, along with a short note about what they contribute to the recipe:
-
2 pounds ground beef: This is the main filling. It adds protein and rich flavor to the dish. You can swap it for ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.
-
3.5 pounds chopped cabbage: The cabbage leaves hold the filling and become soft and tender as they cook. If you’re looking for an alternative, you can use Swiss chard, although the texture and flavor will change a bit.
-
29 ounces canned tomato sauce: This gives a deliciously tangy flavor and keeps the rolls moist while baking. You can use homemade tomato sauce if you have it on hand.
-
1 cup chopped onion: The onions add sweetness and depth to the filling. You could substitute with shallots for a milder taste.
-
1 cup uncooked white rice: This adds texture and helps to bind the filling. Brown rice is a great healthier option that you can substitute here, but make sure to adjust the cooking time.
-
1 teaspoon salt: Salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients. You can use sea salt or kosher salt as an alternative.
-
28 ounces canned beef broth: This adds extra flavor and moisture, making the dish rich and satisfying. If you prefer, vegetable broth is a great substitute.
Directions
Let’s break down the directions into simple, easy-to-follow steps:
-
Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your dish cooks evenly.
-
Prepare the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 pounds of ground beef, 3.5 pounds of chopped cabbage, 1 cup of chopped onion, 1 cup of uncooked rice, and 1 teaspoon of salt. Use your hands to mix everything together until it’s well combined. Just remember—don’t overmix!
-
Blanch the Cabbage Leaves: Take a large pot of water and bring it to a boil. Carefully add whole cabbage leaves and boil them for about 1 minute until they soften. Drain the leaves in a colander, letting them cool for a moment.
-
Roll the Cabbage: Take a leaf and place a portion of the filling in the center. Fold in the sides and start rolling from the bottom. Make sure to keep the filling secure inside. Repeat with all the cabbage leaves and filling mixture.
-
Arrange in a Baking Dish: Take a large baking dish and arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls in a single layer. It’s okay if they are close together, but try to avoid stacking.
-
Add Sauce: Pour 29 ounces of canned tomato sauce and 28 ounces of beef broth over the rolls, making sure they are coated well. This will keep the rolls from drying out.
-
Cover and Bake: Place a cover or foil over the dish. This helps keep the moisture inside. Bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the rolls are cooked through and fork-tender.
-
Serve: After baking, remove the dish from the oven and let the cabbage rolls cool for a few minutes. Serve them hot, enjoying the wonderful aroma and flavors.
How to Serve Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish
Once your Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish is hot and fresh, there are many delightful ways to serve it! A classic pairing would be a side of crusty bread or rolls, perfect for soaking up the rich tomato sauce.
You could also serve a simple salad on the side to add a refreshing crunch. A light vinaigrette works wonders with the dish, balancing flavors nicely.
For drinks, consider serving a nice, cool glass of iced tea or lemonade. It’s refreshing and complements the hearty meal wonderfully.
Don’t forget that Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish makes for a lovely weeknight dinner or a special dish for holidays and gatherings with family and friends.
How to Store Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish
If you have leftovers (and they’re a delight to enjoy again!), storing your Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish is easy.
-
In the fridge: Allow the dish to cool completely before putting it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure to reheat it well before serving again.
-
In the freezer: If you want to save some for later, slice the cabbage rolls before freezing. This way, you can take out only what you need. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
-
Reheating: To reheat, just take out the number of rolls you want and place them in a microwave-safe container. Heat them in the microwave on medium power until warm throughout. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.
Tips to Make Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish
Here are a few simple tips to ensure your Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish turns out perfect:
-
Use cold water: When preparing the cabbage leaves, ensure you rinse them in cold water after boiling. This helps stop the cooking process and keeps them firm.
-
Grate the onion: If you prefer a smoother texture in your filling, try grating the onion instead of chopping it. This way, it will dissolve better and blend in with the meat.
-
Don’t overbake: Keep an eye on the rolls while they are in the oven. Overbaking may dry them out, so check for doneness a little early.
-
Let them cool before slicing: If you have leftovers, let the rolls cool for a bit before slicing. This helps keep the filling intact.
Variation
There are many ways to tweak your Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish to make it unique to your tastes. Here are a few variations:
-
Spicy Cabbage Rolls: For a kick of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the filling.
-
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a mix of lentils and chopped mushrooms. You can also use beans and quinoa for added protein and flavor.
-
Cheesy Rolls: For those who love cheese, sprinkle some shredded cheese into the filling or on top of the cabbage rolls in the last 10 minutes of baking for a delicious cheesy finish.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and roll the cabbage ahead of time. Store the rolls in the fridge and bake them just before serving. They can also be fully cooked and stored in the fridge for reheating later.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat it?
For the best results, reheat your stuffed cabbage rolls in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. You can also use a microwave, but the oven keeps them from getting rubbery.
Q: Can I use a different meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. You can also try using plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option, making it a flexible recipe for different dietary needs.
Conclusion
Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish is not just a meal; it’s a cherished tradition filled with memories, laughter, and love. It’s easy to make, versatile, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re cooking it for family gatherings, special occasions, or just a cozy dinner, this dish is sure to bring warmth to your table and hearts. So gather your ingredients, roll up those cabbage leaves, and enjoy this wonderful classic. Your family will thank you for it!
Print
Stuffed Cabbage Roll Dish
- Total Time: 150 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
A comforting and hearty dish featuring tender cabbage rolls stuffed with a savory beef filling and baked in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 3.5 pounds chopped cabbage
- 29 ounces canned tomato sauce
- 1 cup chopped onion
- 1 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 28 ounces canned beef broth
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, chopped cabbage, chopped onion, uncooked rice, and salt. Mix until just combined.
- Blanch the cabbage leaves in boiling water for about 1 minute until softened, then drain.
- Place a portion of the filling on each cabbage leaf, fold in the sides, and roll tightly.
- Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls in a baking dish.
- Pour tomato sauce and beef broth over the rolls, covering them well.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the rolls are tender.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils and mushrooms. Leftovers taste even better the next day!
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Eastern European
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: cabbage rolls, stuffed cabbage, comfort food, family recipe