Beef and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Beef and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a timeless comfort dish enjoyed across many cultures, from Eastern Europe to the Middle East. Known by names like golabki, holubtsi, or sarmas, this dish brings together tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling of seasoned ground beef and rice, all gently simmered or baked in a rich tomato sauce. It’s hearty, wholesome, and deeply satisfying.

What makes stuffed cabbage rolls so special is the slow cooking process, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. The cabbage becomes tender and slightly sweet, the beef filling stays juicy, and the sauce ties everything together into a comforting, homestyle meal. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is a classic that never goes out of style.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it feels like pure comfort food. It’s warm, filling, and made with simple ingredients that turn into something truly special when cooked together. The aroma while it cooks is incredible, and it’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day, making leftovers something to look forward to.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

1. Classic comfort food with rich, homestyle flavor
2. Balanced meal with protein, grains, and vegetables
3. Perfect for make-ahead and freezer-friendly meals
4. Loved across many cuisines and cultures
5. Ideal for family gatherings and cozy dinners

Recipe Overview

• Course: Main Course
• Cuisine: Eastern European / International
• Preparation Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: About 1 hour 45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories (Approx.): 420–460 kcal per serving

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls

• 1 large green cabbage
• 500 g (1 lb) ground beef
• ½ cup uncooked white rice
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg (optional, for binding)
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

For the Tomato Sauce

• 2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• 1 tsp dried oregano or thyme
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth

Cooking Directions

1. Prepare and soften cabbage leaves
2. Make beef and rice filling
3. Assemble and roll cabbage leaves
4. Arrange rolls in baking dish or pot
5. Simmer or bake until tender

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Remove core from cabbage and boil whole cabbage for 8–10 minutes, peeling off softened leaves. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a bowl, combine ground beef, uncooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, egg (if using), paprika, pepper, salt, and parsley. Mix gently until combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Mix tomato sauce, tomato paste, sugar, herbs, and broth in a bowl.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Place a spoonful of filling onto each cabbage leaf. Fold in sides and roll tightly.

Step 5: Arrange

Spread a little sauce at the bottom of a pot or baking dish. Place rolls seam-side down.

Step 6: Cook

Pour remaining sauce over rolls. Cover and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 1 hour or simmer gently on stovetop for 60–75 minutes.

Step 7: Rest

Let rolls rest for 10 minutes before serving.

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How to Serve Beef and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Serve hot with extra sauce spooned on top
• Pair with mashed potatoes or crusty bread
• Add a dollop of sour cream for richness
• Serve with a fresh green salad
• Garnish with chopped parsley

Recipe Tips

• Choose large cabbage leaves for easy rolling
• Don’t overfill the rolls
• Trim thick veins from leaves if needed
• Use gentle heat for tender rolls
• Let rest before serving for best texture

Variations (Detailed)

1. Beef and Pork Cabbage Rolls

Use half beef and half pork for extra richness.

2. Tomato-Cream Sauce Rolls

Add sour cream to the tomato sauce.

3. Spicy Stuffed Cabbage

Add chili flakes or hot paprika.

4. Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage

Use lentils, mushrooms, and rice instead of beef.

5. Low-Carb Version

Replace rice with cauliflower rice.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration

• Store in airtight container for 3–4 days

Freezing

• Freeze cooked rolls for up to 3 months

Reheating

• Reheat in oven or stovetop until hot through

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot (for boiling cabbage)
• Baking dish or Dutch oven
• Mixing bowls
• Sharp knife
• Spoon or tongs

Conclusion

Beef and Rice Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are the ultimate comfort food—hearty, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. With tender cabbage, juicy beef filling, and rich tomato sauce, this dish brings warmth and tradition to the table. Perfect for family dinners, make-ahead meals, or cozy weekends, this recipe is a classic that will always have a place in your kitchen.