Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef Recipe: A Hearty Comfort Food

Cabbage rolls with ground beef are the ultimate comfort food, bringing together savory flavors, wholesome ingredients, and a warm, home-cooked feeling. Perfect for cozy dinners or family gatherings, these cabbage rolls are hearty, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you’ve been making them for years or are trying this recipe for the first time, it’s a dish that will never disappoint.

In this easy-to-follow guide, we’ll walk through how to make these delicious cabbage rolls with ground beef, provide helpful tips, and offer some extra suggestions to elevate the recipe. Let’s dive into making this classic comfort food!

Ingredients

Here’s a simple list of the ingredients you’ll need to create the perfect cabbage rolls with ground beef:

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

Start by prepping the cabbage. Bring a large pot of water to a boil, and gently submerge the entire cabbage head. Allow it to boil for about 2 minutes. This softens the leaves and makes them easier to remove. Once the cabbage has softened, use tongs to pull off the outer leaves. You’ll need about 12 to 16 large leaves. Afterward, carefully trim the thick vein in the center of each leaf to make rolling easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 3 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook the beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season the beef with salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Once browned, remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

In a large bowl, combine the beef mixture with cooked rice and mix well.

Step 3: Roll the Cabbage

Now it’s time to roll! Place each cabbage leaf on a flat surface and spoon about ¼ to ⅓ cup of the beef mixture onto the leaf. Carefully fold the sides over the filling, then roll the cabbage leaf tightly, securing the stuffing inside. Place the cabbage roll seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Pour the sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls in the baking dish, making sure the rolls are well-coated.

Step 5: Bake the Cabbage Rolls

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 1 hour. Halfway through, check on the rolls and spoon some sauce over the tops. When done, the cabbage should be tender, and the flavors will have melded together perfectly.

Recipe Notes

• Don’t overmix the filling: When combining the beef and rice, be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can result in tough filling. Mix until just combined.
• Trimming the cabbage: Trimming the thick vein of each cabbage leaf makes it easier to roll. If needed, you can also shave it down slightly with a knife.
• Make it ahead of time: You can prepare the rolls the day before and store them in the fridge. Just bake them when you’re ready!

Time and Servings

Storage

Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes, or microwave them until warmed through.

For longer storage, you can freeze cabbage rolls for up to 3 months. Once cooled, wrap each roll in plastic wrap and foil, and store them in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat from frozen, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–40 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

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Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect

• Use lean ground beef: Opt for lean ground beef (85% lean) for a rich, flavorful filling without excess fat.
• Add fresh herbs: Fresh thyme, basil, or parsley can take this dish to the next level. Add them to the sauce or sprinkle them on top before serving.
• Try a meat mixture: For extra richness, try mixing ground beef and pork. This adds a depth of flavor and moistness to the filling.

How to Serve

Cabbage rolls are a full meal on their own, but they pair wonderfully with sides like mashed potatoes, rye bread, or a fresh salad. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs adds the perfect finishing touch!

This hearty dish pairs perfectly with a bowl of sweet potato and chickpea chili, offering a great vegetarian option.

Kitchen Tools Needed

• Large pot: For boiling the cabbage.
• Large skillet: For cooking the beef and onions.
• Baking dish: To bake the cabbage rolls.
• Knife and cutting board: To chop the onions and garlic.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure the right proportions of ingredients.

Health Benefits of Cabbage Rolls

Cabbage is packed with nutrients such as Vitamin K, Vitamin C, and fiber, which contribute to better digestion and a healthy immune system. Ground beef is a great source of protein and iron, helping to maintain muscle mass and energy levels. These cabbage rolls offer a balanced, filling meal that is both comforting and nutritious.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Yes! Ground turkey works as a leaner alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious. You can also try a mix of turkey and beef for a balance of flavor and moisture.

2. Can I freeze cabbage rolls before baking?
Absolutely! Assemble the rolls and freeze them before baking. To cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight and bake as usual.

3. Can I make these rolls with cooked rice?
For the best texture, use uncooked rice in the filling. It absorbs the tomato sauce and beef broth as the rolls cook, resulting in perfectly cooked rice.

4. How can I prevent cabbage rolls from falling apart?
Be sure to trim the thick vein from each cabbage leaf and roll them tightly. Placing the rolls seam-side down in the baking dish also helps keep them intact while baking.

5. Can I make cabbage rolls in a slow cooker?
Yes! After assembling, place the rolls in a slow cooker, cover with sauce, and cook on low for 6–8 hours, or on high for 3–4 hours. It’s a great way to get that slow-simmered flavor without turning on the oven.

Final Thoughts

Cabbage rolls with ground beef are a comforting, delicious, and wholesome dish that’s perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or even meal prep. The rich flavors and hearty texture make it a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you’re new to cabbage rolls or a seasoned pro, this easy-to-follow recipe will help you create a memorable meal. Enjoy!