Cabbage rolls are one of those dishes that feel like a warm hug at the end of a long day. They bring comfort with every bite and carry the charm of traditional home cooking. Whether they remind you of family dinners growing up or you are trying them for the first time, there is something deeply satisfying about tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful meat and rice filling. Cooked slowly in a rich tomato sauce, they soak up all the flavor and come out irresistibly juicy and full of goodness.
This dish is loved across many cultures, from Eastern European kitchens to Middle Eastern and American homes. Each version has its own twist, but the heart of the recipe stays the same. You take simple, wholesome ingredients and turn them into something unforgettable. These classic cabbage rolls are made just like grandma would make them. The filling is seasoned just right. The cabbage is soft but holds its shape. The sauce brings it all together in the most delicious way. This recipe is not just about food, it is about creating memories around the table.
Ingredients Needed
The beauty of cabbage rolls lies in their simplicity. You probably have many of the ingredients already in your pantry or fridge. Everything comes together in a way that feels rustic but also rich in flavor. Here is what you will need to make a full batch of classic cabbage rolls, now with calorie details per ingredient.
| Ingredient | Amount | Calories (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Green cabbage head | 1 large | 220 |
| Ground beef (80 percent lean) | 1 pound | 1150 |
| Cooked white rice | 1 cup | 200 |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 medium | 45 |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves | 10 |
| Egg | 1 large | 70 |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | 0 |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | 3 |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon | 6 |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon | 3 |
| Crushed tomatoes | 1 can (28 ounces) | 150 |
| Tomato sauce | 1 can (15 ounces) | 100 |
| Brown sugar | 2 tablespoons | 100 |
| White vinegar | 1 tablespoon | 3 |
| Olive oil | 1 tablespoon | 120 |
If you like, you can swap out the beef for a mix of beef and pork or even ground turkey. The tomato sauce can also be homemade if you prefer more control over the flavor. But even with these simple store-bought ingredients, the results are always impressive.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the entire head into the water. Let it soften for several minutes. As the leaves start to loosen, gently peel them off using tongs and set them aside to cool. Repeat until you have about twelve good-sized leaves.
While the cabbage cools, prepare the filling. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano. Mix everything together until the ingredients are fully blended. Do not overmix, as that can make the filling dense.
Lay one cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Add about two tablespoons of the meat mixture near the base of the leaf. Fold in the sides and roll it up tightly, like a burrito. Place each finished roll seam side down in a large baking dish or Dutch oven.
Once all your rolls are assembled, make the sauce. In a separate bowl, mix the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, brown sugar, vinegar, and olive oil. Pour this rich sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls. If using a Dutch oven, cover it with the lid. For a baking dish, use aluminum foil.
Bake the cabbage rolls at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about one and a half to two hours. The sauce should bubble gently and the cabbage will be fork-tender. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving so they can soak up even more flavor.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
You can add shredded carrots or chopped bell peppers into the filling for more color and texture. If you enjoy a spicier dish, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce into the tomato mixture.
Those following a vegetarian diet can substitute the meat with lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based ground meat alternative. The result will still be just as satisfying and delicious.
If you are short on time, consider making a deconstructed version by layering chopped cabbage, meat, rice, and sauce in a casserole dish and baking it all together. It has the same flavors without the rolling.
Nutritional Information
Classic cabbage rolls are a hearty meal that manages to stay relatively balanced. The exact nutritional value will depend on your specific ingredients and serving size, but here is an approximate breakdown for one serving, which includes about two medium rolls with sauce:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 22 grams
- Carbohydrates: 28 grams
- Fat: 18 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
- Sugar: 9 grams
- Sodium: 620 milligrams
This recipe provides a good source of protein and fiber while staying moderate in fat. It is filling without being too heavy, especially when served with a light side dish like salad or roasted vegetables.
Serving Suggestions
Cabbage rolls are hearty enough to stand on their own, but they shine even more when paired with the right sides. A side of creamy mashed potatoes adds a classic touch. The smooth texture balances the tender crunch of the cabbage. Crusty bread is another favorite, perfect for soaking up the extra tomato sauce in the pan.
A simple cucumber and dill salad brings brightness and a cool contrast. Steamed green beans or glazed carrots also complement the richness of the rolls without overpowering them. If you are feeding a crowd, serve the cabbage rolls alongside pierogies or a noodle casserole for a full feast.
Cabbage rolls also make excellent leftovers. The flavors get even better the next day. They reheat well in the oven or microwave, making them perfect for meal prep or weeknight dinners.
Conclusion
Cabbage rolls may look old-fashioned, but they are the kind of dish that never goes out of style. They bring together everything we love about home-cooked meals. They are simple, flavorful, filling, and made with love. With just a little time and effort, you can create a recipe that tastes like it came straight from grandma’s kitchen.
Every bite is full of rich tomato sauce, tender meat, and soft cabbage. It is the kind of food that warms your soul and brings people together. Whether you stick with the classic version or add your own spin, this is a recipe worth keeping in your rotation. Gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to enjoy the deep comfort of homemade cabbage rolls. They are more than just a meal. They are a memory waiting to happen.