There’s something deeply satisfying about a dish that brings warmth to the table with every bite. Cabbage Rolls are just that—tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory beef and rice filling, then slowly simmered in a rich tomato sauce. It’s a meal that feels like a hug, packed with flavor, tradition, and just the right amount of nostalgia.
This recipe is not just delicious; it’s a wholesome, protein-rich meal that’s naturally low in carbs and full of fiber. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner or a make-ahead meal that reheats beautifully, cabbage rolls fit the bill.
Plus, they’re surprisingly easy to make once you master the simple technique of softening the cabbage leaves—trust me, it’s easier than it looks! For a complete meal, serve these rolls with Sausage Stuffing for a hearty, indulgent touch or a light Cucumber Avocado Salad to keep things fresh and balanced.
This dish has been enjoyed across generations and cultures, from Eastern Europe to the Middle East, each version carrying its own unique flavors. But no matter where you’re from, one thing remains the same—cabbage rolls are pure comfort food at its best.
What’s So Special About This Dish?
- It’s the ultimate comfort food: Every bite is packed with rich, savory goodness wrapped in tender, melt-in-your-mouth cabbage.
- Perfect for meal prep: These rolls taste even better the next day, making them a great make-ahead meal.
- A lighter, healthier alternative: With lean beef, fiber-rich cabbage, and just the right balance of carbs, it’s satisfying without being heavy.
- So many ways to customize: Swap the beef for turkey, add mushrooms for an earthy twist, or spice it up with chili flakes.
Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Equipment
- Large pot (for boiling cabbage)
- Medium saucepan (for cooking rice)
- Mixing bowl
- Large skillet or baking dish
- Knife & cutting board
- Tongs (for handling cabbage leaves)
- Spoon (for filling and rolling)
Ingredients
- ⅔ cup water
- ⅓ cup uncooked white rice
- 8 cabbage leaves
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- ¼ cup chopped onion
- 1 large egg slightly beaten
- 1 10.5 ounce can condensed tomato soup, divided
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Cook the rice: In a medium saucepan, bring water to a boil, add rice, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes until partially cooked. Set aside.
- Prepare the cabbage: Boil a large pot of water, carefully remove cabbage leaves, and blanch them for 2-3 minutes until soft. Drain and set aside.
- Make the filling: In a bowl, mix ground beef, chopped onion, egg, cooked rice, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Fill & roll: Place 2 tablespoons of filling onto each cabbage leaf, roll tightly, and tuck in the sides.
- Layer & sauce: Arrange the rolls in a skillet or baking dish, pour half the tomato soup over the top, and cover.
- Cook: Simmer on low heat for 45 minutes or bake at 350°F (175°C) for the same time until the rolls are tender.
- Serve & enjoy: Drizzle the remaining tomato soup over the rolls before serving.
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 223kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 13g |
| Protein | 13g |
| Fat | 13g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Sodium | 657mg |
Flavor-Packed Tips For Perfect Cabbage Rolls!
Use Savoy Cabbage for an Easier Roll:
If you struggle with traditional green cabbage leaves tearing, try Savoy cabbage—its softer texture makes rolling a breeze, and it adds a delicate, slightly sweet flavor.
Freeze the Cabbage Instead of Boiling:
Want to skip the boiling step? Freeze the whole head of cabbage overnight, then let it thaw. The leaves will naturally soften, making them easy to peel and roll—no boiling needed!
Mix Ground Meats for More Flavor:
Instead of just beef, try a blend of ground pork and beef for a juicier, more flavorful filling. A 50/50 mix keeps the rolls moist and rich.
Sauté the Onions First for Depth:
Raw onions can taste sharp in the filling. Lightly sauté them before mixing with the beef and rice to bring out their natural sweetness and enhance the overall flavor.
Layer with Sauerkraut for a Tangy Twist:
In German-style cabbage rolls, a layer of sauerkraut at the bottom of the pot adds an irresistible tangy depth to the sauce. If you love a bit of zing, this is a game-changer!
Bake for a More Concentrated Flavor:
While stovetop simmering works, baking your cabbage rolls at 350°F (175°C) for about an hour allows the flavors to intensify and the sauce to thicken beautifully.
Let Them Rest Before Serving:
Like lasagna, cabbage rolls taste even better after resting for 10-15 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and makes them easier to serve without falling apart.
John Lee’s love for cooking is deeply rooted in family tradition. Growing up, the men in his family took charge of the kitchen, turning every meal into a special occasion. From weekend barbecues to holiday feasts, food was more than sustenance—it was a way to connect.
Inspired by this upbringing, John developed a passion for creating dishes that bring people together. After meeting Joe Miller through mutual friends, he joined Food Landscape Insight to share his love for simple yet extraordinary cooking, crafting meals that tell a story and create lasting memories.
