Beef And Rice Cabbage Rolls

Name: Beef And Rice Cabbage Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 6 rolls
Ingredients: 1 large head green cabbage; 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Recipes

I absolutely love making Beef and Rice Cabbage Rolls for a comforting dinner that feels both special and homey. The combination of tender cabbage leaves filled with savory beef and rice creates a dish that's as satisfying to eat as it is to make. With just a few simple ingredients and some time in the oven, these rolls come together beautifully. I particularly enjoy the way the flavors meld together, making each bite a delightful explosion of taste that reminds me of family gatherings and warm meals shared around the table.

Created by

Megan Scott

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:05:35.606Z

When I first tried making Beef and Rice Cabbage Rolls, I was amazed at how delicious they turned out. The process of blanching the cabbage leaves to make them pliable really pays off, as it allows for easy rolling without tearing. I like to use a blend of spices in my beef mixture to elevate the flavors. One tip I discovered is to let the filled rolls rest for a few minutes before baking; this helps the flavors bind beautifully.

As I perfected my technique, I found that cooking them in a tangy tomato sauce keeps the rolls moist and packed with flavor. Plus, the sauce seeps into the rice, giving it a wonderful taste. This dish not only fills the stomach but also warms the soul, making it perfect for those chilly evenings.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Comforting, hearty flavors that bring the family together
Versatile recipe that allows for creative fillings
Easy to prepare ahead of time for busy weeknights

Mastering Cabbage Preparation

The key to great cabbage rolls lies in tender cabbage leaves. When boiling the cabbage, don’t rush the process; aim for just 2-3 minutes in the water to ensure the outer leaves soften enough for rolling. If you overcook them, they can become too mushy and tear easily. I often find it helpful to periodically check the leaves for their flexibility—once you've got a good batch, you can easily peel them off without damaging their structure.

After removing the cabbage from the boiling water, it's crucial to let the leaves cool properly before handling them. I like to place them on a clean kitchen towel, slightly overlapping, to absorb excess moisture. This step not only makes rolling easier but also prevents sogginess. If you find that some leaves are too small or have holes, don’t hesitate to use two leaves for one roll; it’ll create a sturdier base for your filling.

Enhancing the Filling

The filling for your cabbage rolls is where you can really personalize the dish. I recommend ensuring that your cooked rice is not overly sticky; you want it to fluff up and blend well with the beef. If you have leftovers from a previous meal, feel free to use them instead of cooking new rice. Experimenting with different types of rice or even using quinoa for a healthier twist can add a unique flavor and texture to the filling.

Don’t be afraid to spice up your mixture! Aside from paprika, consider adding fresh herbs like parsley or dill for an aromatic kick. And if you're looking to modify the protein, ground turkey or chicken can make great substitutions for ground beef, providing a lighter take on this hearty dish. Adjust seasoning to taste, keeping in mind that you can always add more salt and pepper later, but can’t take it out once it’s mixed in.

Perfecting the Sauce

The tomato sauce for your cabbage rolls serves as more than just a topping; it also contributes vital moisture during the baking process to keep the rolls from drying out. I prefer using a good quality tomato sauce or passata, as the flavor will significantly influence the overall dish. Additions like a pinch of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes, especially if you’re using canned sauce. Taste as you go to adjust seasoning according to your preference.

If you want to add complexity to your sauce, sauteing onions or bell peppers until they're soft and sweet can enhance the flavor profile beautifully. For a touch of heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes. When baking, ensure the sauce is evenly distributed over the rolls to promote even cooking and a delightful caramelization on top; this will produce a luxurious, bubbling finish that’s visually appealing and downright delicious.

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls

1 large head green cabbage
1 pound ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tomato Sauce

2 cups tomato sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Cabbage

Bring a large pot of water to a boil and carefully remove the core from the cabbage. Once the water is boiling, submerge the whole head of cabbage for about 2-3 minutes until the outer leaves are tender. Remove the leaves and set them aside to cool.

Make the Filling

In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, paprika, salt, and pepper until fully combined.

Assemble the Rolls

Lay a cabbage leaf on a flat surface, add a scoop of the filling to the center, and roll tightly, tucking in the ends. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

Prepare the Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix the tomato sauce with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.

Bake the Rolls

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish, place the rolls seam-side down, and cover with the remaining sauce. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some grated cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking. Also, these rolls can be made ahead of time and frozen before baking—just add 10-15 minutes to the baking time if cooking from frozen.

Storage and Reheating

These cabbage rolls can be made ahead and stored, making them an ideal choice for meal prep. After assembling, simply cover them tightly with foil and store in the fridge for up to 48 hours before baking. If you prefer to freeze them, place uncooked rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To cook frozen cabbage rolls, simply bake them from frozen, adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.

When reheating leftovers, ensure that they’re warmed through evenly. I recommend re-baking them in the oven covered with foil to retain moisture for about 20-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C). Alternatively, you can microwave individual rolls, but be cautious of overcooking. A little splash of water will create steam and help them heat up without becoming dry or tough.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your cabbage rolls with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a refreshing touch that complements the richness of the beef and rice filling. A side of crusty bread or garlic bread can be perfect for soaking up any extra sauce, turning your meal into a delightful affair. For a healthy balance, pair with a crisp salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to provide a contrast in textures and flavors.

If you want to elevate your meal further, consider serving the cabbage rolls alongside roasted vegetables. A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until golden adds both color and nutrition to your dish. This way, you have a complete, hearty meal that's not just filling, but also vibrant and satisfying for the whole family.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a mixture of meats for different flavors.

→ Can I make these cabbage rolls vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace the meat with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth for the sauce.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, or freeze them for longer storage.

→ What can I serve with cabbage rolls?

These rolls pair wonderfully with a side of sour cream, salad, or crusty bread.