Old Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Here’s a comforting, classic recipe for Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls — just like grandma might’ve made. These tender cabbage leaves are filled with a savory meat and rice mixture, then simmered in a rich tomato sauce.

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🥬 Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Ingredients:

For the cabbage rolls:

• 1 large green cabbage (about 12 leaves)

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or mix of beef and pork)

• ½ cup uncooked rice (white or parboiled)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 large egg

• 1 tsp salt

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp paprika (optional)

For the sauce:

• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• Salt & pepper to taste

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Instructions:

1. Prep the cabbage:

   • Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

   • Carefully remove core from cabbage and gently peel off 12 large leaves.

   • Boil leaves for 2–3 minutes until pliable. Drain and let cool.

2. Make the filling:

   • In a bowl, mix together ground beef, rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika.

3. Assemble rolls:

   • Lay a cabbage leaf flat. Trim the thick stem if needed.

   • Place about ¼ cup of filling near the base of the leaf.

   • Roll up, tucking in sides like a burrito.

4. Prepare the sauce:

   • Mix tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, brown sugar, lemon juice, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper in a bowl.

5. Cook (oven method):

   • Place some sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish or Dutch oven.

   • Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down.

   • Pour remaining sauce over the top.

   • Cover tightly with foil or lid and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1½ to 2 hours, until rice is tender.

   OR – Slow Cooker Method:

   • Layer sauce and rolls in a Crock Pot.

   • Cook on Low for 6–7 hours or High for 3–4 hours.

6. Serve warm, spooning extra sauce over top. Delicious with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

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🔄 Tips & Variations:

• Add a pinch of caraway or dill for Eastern European flair.

• Use cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

• Mix in a little ground pork or sausage for richer flavor.

Want a freezer-friendly version or tips on making them ahead? Let me know!