Homemade Stuffed Cabbage Rolls in Tomato Sauce

These delicious Homemade Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a timeless comfort food that’s perfect for bringing everyone together around the dinner table. Tender cabbage leaves are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, rice, onions, garlic, and seasonings, then gently simmered in a rich tomato sauce until perfectly cooked.

Every bite is packed with hearty ingredients and homemade flavor. The cabbage becomes wonderfully tender while the meat and rice filling stays juicy and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or looking for a traditional dish to enjoy on a cozy evening, these cabbage rolls are sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

For the Cabbage

• 1 large head of cabbage

For the Filling

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ lb ground pork (optional)
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika

For the Tomato Sauce

• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 cup beef broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Soften the Cabbage Leaves

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully cut out the core of the cabbage and place the whole head into the boiling water. Allow it to cook for 2–3 minutes, then gently peel away the softened outer leaves. Set them aside and repeat the process until you have enough leaves for stuffing.

2. Prepare the Meat Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork (if using), cooked rice, diced onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix everything together until well combined and evenly seasoned.

3. Fill and Roll the Cabbage

Lay each cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Place a portion of the meat and rice mixture near the center of the leaf. Fold the sides inward, then roll it up firmly to keep the filling securely enclosed. Continue until all the filling has been used.

4. Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the tomato sauce and beef broth, stirring until everything is thoroughly combined. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.

5. Cook the Cabbage Rolls

Carefully arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls in the simmering tomato sauce, placing them seam-side down. Cover the pot with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let them simmer for 45–60 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the meat filling is completely cooked through.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Gently remove the cooked cabbage rolls from the pot and arrange them on serving plates. Spoon plenty of the warm tomato sauce over each serving and enjoy while hot.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these homemade cabbage rolls with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple fresh salad. A spoonful of sour cream on top also makes a delicious addition.

Helpful Tip: Choose large cabbage leaves for easier rolling. If some leaves have thick center stems, carefully trim them down to make folding easier without tearing the cabbage.

These hearty, tender cabbage rolls are full of traditional homemade flavor and make a wonderful meal for any occasion!