The Best Homemade Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This stuffed cabbage rolls recipe is a comforting dish that’s both hearty and full of flavor. It’s perfect for family dinners or special occasions, bringing a touch of tradition to your table.
- Easy to customize: Swap out ingredients to suit your taste, whether it’s the filling or the sauce.
- Crowd-pleaser: Loved by both kids and adults, it’s a dish that brings everyone together.
- Freezer-friendly: Make a big batch and save some for later—it reheats beautifully.
Recipe
Stuffed cabbage rolls, also known as golabki, are a comforting dish made with tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling of ground meat, rice, and spices, then simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This classic recipe is perfect for a hearty meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 lb ground beef or pork (or a mix)
- 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
- 2 tbsp butter or oil
Instructions:
- Prepare the cabbage: Remove the core and place the head in a large pot of boiling water. Cook for 5-7 minutes until leaves soften. Peel off leaves carefully and trim thick veins.
- Make the filling: In a bowl, mix ground meat, rice, onion, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Assemble rolls: Place a spoonful of filling on each cabbage leaf, fold sides inward, and roll tightly.
- Cook: Heat butter/oil in a pot, add rolls seam-side down. Pour tomato sauce over them, adding sugar and lemon juice if desired. Cover and simmer for 45-50 minutes.
Notes:
- Use savoy cabbage for easier rolling.
- Substitute rice with quinoa for a healthier option.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Sharp knife
- Cooking spoon
Time:
- Prep time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 50 minutes
Cuisine:
Eastern European
Serving:
4-6 servings
Nutrition
Stuffed cabbage rolls are a nutritious dish packed with protein and vegetables. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing stuffed cabbage rolls with creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad for a satisfying meal. A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon adds a revitalizing touch to balance the dish. Don’t be afraid to mix and match sides to find your perfect combo!
Side Dish Options
When you’re serving stuffed cabbage rolls, it’s fun to pair them with sides that complement their rich, savory flavor. I love a simple cucumber salad with dill and vinegar—it adds a fresh crunch. Mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles soak up the sauce beautifully. Roasted carrots or beets bring sweetness, while a tangy sauerkraut cuts through the richness. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll whip up a warm rye bread or crusty baguette to mop up every last bite. These sides keep the meal balanced without stealing the spotlight from the star of the show—those delicious rolls!
Beverage Pairings
A great meal isn’t complete without the right drink, and stuffed cabbage rolls pair wonderfully with beverages that balance their hearty flavors. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll pour a dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon—its boldness complements the savory filling. For a lighter option, I go for crisp, slightly acidic white wines like Sauvignon Blanc. If you’re not into wine, try a cold beer, maybe a malty lager or amber ale. Even non-alcoholic drinks work; I love a tangy kombucha or sparkling water with lemon. Whatever you choose, it’s all about what makes your meal feel complete and satisfying! Cheers!
