Juicy Stuffed Cabbage Rolls in Tomato Sauce

These juicy stuffed cabbage rolls are filled with seasoned ground beef, tender rice, fresh herbs, and flavorful spices, then slowly simmered in a rich homemade tomato sauce. Every bite is tender, comforting, and packed with delicious flavor. This classic family-style meal is perfect for cozy dinners and is sure to become a favorite at your table!

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls

• 1 large head of cabbage
• 1 lb (500 g) ground beef
• 1 cup cooked rice, slightly undercooked
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Tomato Sauce

• 4 fresh tomatoes, crushed, or 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) tomato sauce
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 1/2 cups hot water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

Remove the core from the cabbage. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then carefully place the cabbage in the water. Cook for about 10 minutes, gently removing the softened leaves as they loosen. Set the leaves aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, slightly undercooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, olive oil, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is evenly combined.

Step 3: Stuff and Roll the Cabbage

Trim the thick stem from each cabbage leaf to make rolling easier. Place 1–2 tablespoons of filling near the bottom of each leaf. Fold in the sides and roll tightly to enclose the filling. Repeat until all the filling is used.

Step 4: Make the Tomato Sauce

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, hot water, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well and simmer for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Cook the Cabbage Rolls

Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the pot, placing them close together. Spoon some tomato sauce over the rolls. If necessary, add a little extra hot water so the rolls are almost covered.

Cover the pot and simmer over low heat for 40–50 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is fully cooked. Check occasionally and add a little water if the sauce becomes too thick.

Step 6: Serve

Carefully transfer the cabbage rolls to serving plates and spoon the rich tomato sauce over the top. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Tips for the Best Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Choose large cabbage leaves: They are easier to fill and roll without tearing.
• Avoid overfilling: A small amount of filling makes the rolls easier to seal.
• Keep the heat low: Gentle simmering helps the cabbage become tender without falling apart.
• Let them rest: Allow the rolls to rest for 5 minutes before serving so the flavors can settle.
• Make ahead: These cabbage rolls can be prepared in advance and reheated gently in their tomato sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these stuffed cabbage rolls with crusty bread, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad for a satisfying family dinner.

Storage

Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container with the tomato sauce in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop until heated through.

Enjoy these delicious, tender stuffed cabbage rolls in homemade tomato sauce!