Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls

Get ready to dive into a warm, comforting classic that has graced family tables for generations! These Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls are a testament to simple, hearty cooking, bringing together tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory beef and rice filling, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Each bite is a nostalgic embrace, promising a meal that feels both wholesome and incredibly satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls Recipe

There are so many reasons to adore this timeless dish; it’s a true crowd-pleaser that delivers on flavor and comfort.

• Hearty & Satisfying: Packed with seasoned ground beef and tender rice, these rolls are deeply filling, perfect for a substantial dinner.
• Nostalgic Comfort: This recipe evokes a sense of home and tradition, tasting just like grandma used’ to make, a true classic comfort food.
• Budget-Friendly: Utilizing humble ingredients like cabbage and ground beef, it’s an economical way to feed a family generously.
• Flavorful Layers: Each roll offers a delightful medley of textures and tastes, from the soft cabbage to the savory filling and tangy tomato sauce.
• Easy to Scale: Easily double the recipe for larger gatherings or for meal prepping a delicious batch for the week ahead.
• Customizable: Adjust the seasonings to your preference, add extra vegetables, or even experiment with different ground meats.

Ingredients Needed for These Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls

Crafting these delightful rolls requires a blend of fresh produce and pantry staples, ensuring a balanced and robust flavor profile.

• Green Cabbage: 1 large head (approx. 1.5-2 kg / 3-4 lbs). Choose a firm, fresh head with tightly packed leaves for easier handling. You could also use savoy cabbage for a slightly milder flavor.
• Ground Beef: 450g (1 lb). Opt for lean ground beef (80/20) for flavor without excessive grease.
• Cooked Rice: 1 cup (185g) cooked. Any long-grain white rice works beautifully; ensure it’s fully cooked and cooled.
• Egg: 1 large. This acts as a binder, holding the filling together.
• Onion: 1 medium (150g), minced. Fresh onion adds a foundational aromatic sweetness.
• Garlic: 2 cloves (6g), minced. For an extra layer of savory depth.
• Fresh Parsley: 1/4 cup (10g), chopped. Brightens the flavor of the filling.
• Fresh Dill: 2 tablespoons (5g), chopped. Essential for that distinct, old-fashioned taste.
• Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon (15ml). Adds umami and a subtle tang.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (5g). Season generously to enhance all the flavors.
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5g). A touch of warmth and spice.
• Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon (3g). Reinforces the onion flavor without adding moisture.
• Red Chili Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (0.5g), optional. For a subtle kick if you enjoy a little heat.
• Tomato Sauce: 1 can (400g / 15 oz) for the filling, plus 1 cup (240ml) for topping. A good quality plain tomato sauce is best.
• Water: 1/2 cup (120ml). To thin the topping sauce slightly and create steam for baking.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Hearty and Comforting Cabbage Soup – A perfect bowl of warmth and flavor for any chilly evening!

Essential Equipment for Making Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls

Gathering the right tools will make your cabbage roll assembly smooth and efficient, ensuring perfect results every time.

• Large Pot with Lid: For boiling the cabbage head until tender enough to peel leaves. A heavy-bottomed pot helps maintain even heat.
• Large Mixing Bowl: To combine all the delicious ingredients for your ground beef and rice filling.
• Sharp Knife: Crucial for coring the cabbage leaves and mincing aromatics.
• Cutting Board: Provides a stable and safe surface for all your chopping needs.
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: Ideal for arranging and baking the cabbage rolls, ensuring even cooking.
• Aluminum Foil: To tightly cover the baking dish, locking in moisture and heat for tender, juicy rolls.

Recipe Overview

Here’s a quick glance at what to expect for time and effort with these delightful Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls.

• Prep Time: 45 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Servings: 8 servings
• Difficulty: Medium

Step-by-Step Instructions for Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls

Creating these traditional cabbage rolls is simpler than you might imagine, broken down into just a few manageable steps. Follow along carefully to achieve tender, flavorful rolls that will impress everyone at your table.

1. STEP 1: PREPARE THE SAVORY MEAT FILLING. In a sizable mixing bowl, vigorously combine your ground beef, a generous splash of Worcestershire sauce, a single egg, the pre-cooked rice, finely minced onion, fresh parsley, a dash of salt and pepper, a hint of fragrant dill, onion powder, and those optional red chili flakes if you crave a subtle warmth. Finally, stir in some of the tomato sauce to bind it all, ensuring every ingredient is thoroughly integrated into a cohesive, wonderfully seasoned mixture.
2. STEP 2: GENTLY PREPARE THE CABBAGE LEAVES. Carefully place the entire, clean head of cabbage into a large pot of vigorously boiling water. Cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar, allowing it to cook for about 8 to 10 minutes until the outer leaves soften and become pliable. Halfway through, you can gently flip the cabbage using tongs to ensure even softening. Once the cabbage is cool enough to comfortably handle, carefully slice off the leaves one by one, then expertly remove the tough core from each leaf, preparing them for stuffing.
3. STEP 3: ASSEMBLE AND BAKE THE STUFFED CABBAGE ROLLS. Begin by placing a few soft cabbage leaves at the bottom of a greased baking dish, creating a protective bed for your rolls. Proceed to make each cabbage roll individually: scoop a generous portion of the ground beef mixture onto a prepared cabbage leaf, then carefully roll it up, tucking in the sides to create a neat, compact parcel. Arrange these beautifully stuffed rolls seam-side down in your prepared baking dish. In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining tomato sauce with a little water, then generously pour this rich liquid over the assembled rolls. Top with a final layer of cabbage leaves for extra tenderness, then tightly cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Bake until the cabbage rolls are gloriously cooked through, filling your kitchen with an irresistible, comforting aroma.

CHECK OUT: Old Fashioned Beef Stew – A hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings.

Tips for Success with Cabbage Rolls

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Elevate your cabbage roll game with these expert tips, ensuring a perfect, flavorful outcome every time.

• Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: Boil just until pliable. Overcooked leaves can tear easily, making rolling difficult.
• Cool the Rice: Using cooled cooked rice helps the filling hold its shape better and prevents the rolls from becoming mushy.
• Tuck in Tightly: Roll your cabbage rolls snugly, tucking in the sides, to prevent the filling from escaping during baking.
• Bake Covered: Keeping the dish tightly covered with foil is key to tender cabbage leaves and a moist, thoroughly cooked filling.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the baked rolls to rest for 10-15 minutes after removing from the oven; this helps the flavors meld and makes them easier to serve.

Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with these cabbage rolls, adapting them to your taste and dietary needs.

• Meat Variations: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or a mix of beef and lamb for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Option: For a meat-free version, use a hearty mushroom and lentil filling or a plant-based ground “meat” alternative.
• Grain Swaps: Replace white rice with brown rice, quinoa, or even a blend of wild rice for added fiber and texture.
• Spice It Up: Increase the red chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bolder, spicier kick.
• Sauce Twists: Experiment with different tomato bases like crushed tomatoes, a robust marinara, or even a creamy tomato soup for the topping.

Serving Suggestions

These delicious Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls are a complete meal on their own, but a few simple sides can perfectly complement their rich flavors.

• Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The perfect absorbent companion to soak up that delicious tomato sauce.
• Crusty Bread: Great for dipping into the savory sauce that pools at the bottom of the dish.
• Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast.
• Steamed Green Beans: A classic vegetable side that adds freshness and a touch of color.
• Refreshing Drink: Pair with iced tea, a sparkling non-alcoholic cider, or even a glass of cranberry juice for a delightful beverage.

Health Benefits

These Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls offer more than just comfort; they’re packed with nutritious goodness for a balanced meal.

• Rich in Protein: The ground beef provides essential amino acids for muscle maintenance and repair.
• High in Fiber: Cabbage and rice contribute dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting satiety.
• Vitamin Powerhouse: Cabbage is loaded with Vitamin C and K, while tomatoes offer antioxidants like lycopene.
• Wholesome Grains: Rice offers complex carbohydrates for sustained energy throughout your day.
• Iron Boost: Ground beef is a good source of iron, important for oxygen transport in the body.

Storage & Reheating for Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls

Prepare a large batch and enjoy the comforting flavors of these cabbage rolls for days to come with these storage tips.

• Refrigerate: Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze cooled cabbage rolls in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in Oven: For best results, reheat individual portions in an oven-safe dish covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave Reheating: Alternatively, reheat single servings in the microwave, covered, until hot, stirring the sauce occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions About Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls

Many home cooks have questions when preparing this classic dish, and I’m here to provide simple, clear answers.

Can I use pre-made tomato sauce?

Absolutely! Using a good quality jarred marinara or pasta sauce can save time and still deliver fantastic flavor. Just ensure it’s not too watery.

What if my cabbage leaves tear when rolling?

Don’t worry! You can patch smaller tears with a piece of another cabbage leaf, or simply place the torn side down in the baking dish. They will still taste wonderful.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the filling up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator until ready to assemble and bake the rolls.

How do I know when the cabbage rolls are fully cooked?

The cabbage leaves should be very tender, and the internal temperature of the meat filling should reach 160°F (71°C).

Can I add other vegetables to the filling?

Definitely! Finely diced carrots, bell peppers, or even mushrooms can be incorporated into the filling for added nutrition and flavor. Sauté them before mixing with the meat.

More Delicious Dishes to Explore

If you enjoyed the hearty goodness of these Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls, you’ll love these other comforting recipes!

• Porcupine Meatballs: The Nostalgic Dinner Everyone Loves Again – Revisit a beloved classic that combines ground beef and rice in a rich tomato sauce, just like these rolls.
• Easy Cabbage Casserole – If you love cabbage, this deconstructed take on a classic offers all the flavor with less rolling!
• The Meatloaf Every 1950s Kitchen Loved – Another timeless, comforting beef dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals.

There you have it—a truly classic recipe for Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls that’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home. This dish embodies comfort, tradition, and incredible flavor, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every tender, savory bite! Follow us on Facebook and Pinterest for more culinary inspiration.

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