Irresistible Cabbage Rolls

By Tyla | Last modified on Jan 27, 2026

Featured in: Dinner

Irresistible Cabbage Rolls Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Cabbage rolls are a heartwarming dish that brings comfort with every bite. Tender cabbage leaves are wrapped around a flavorful mix of ground beef, pork, and rice, delivering a savory experience that’s perfect for cooler evenings. This classic Eastern European favorite has been cherished across generations for its rich heritage and satisfying taste.

Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or hosting a special occasion, these vibrant cabbage rolls offer a beautiful plate full of wholesome ingredients and bold flavors, all baked to perfection under a tangy tomato sauce. Their warm aroma and comforting texture make them a perfect meal to gather loved ones around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines tender cabbage leaves with a savory, well-seasoned meat and rice filling for a balanced and hearty meal.
Perfect for cozy dinners, filling, and wholesome with fresh herbs like dill and parsley for added flavor.
Bakes in the oven with tomato sauce, creating a comforting dish with vibrant colors and deep, rich flavors.

Ingredients

1 medium head green cabbage: Provides soft, pliable leaves to envelope the savory filling, acting as a healthy and delicious wrapper.
1 lb ground beef: Adds rich, juicy flavor and protein, balancing well with pork in the filling mixture.
1 lb ground pork: Enhances moisture and tenderness in the filling, giving a savory depth to the rolls.
1 cup uncooked long-grain rice: Adds body and texture to the filling, absorbing juices and flavors during cooking.
1 medium onion, finely chopped: Infuses gentle sweetness and aromatic depth, enhancing the savory filling.
3 cloves garlic, minced: Offers a robust, pungent flavor that complements the meat and herbs beautifully.
2 cups tomato sauce: Creates a rich, tangy sauce to bake the rolls in, enriching the flavor and keeping rolls moist.
2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped: Introduces a bright, herbaceous note that lifts the overall flavor profile.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Adds fresh, slightly peppery undertones, balancing the earthiness of the meat.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance all the flavors in the dish.
Sour cream (for serving): Provides a cool, creamy contrast to the warm, savory rolls when served.

Instructions

Prepare Cabbage Leaves: Start by boiling a large pot of water and blanching the cabbage leaves until they become soft and pliable. This process makes the leaves easy to roll without tearing and ensures they will cook evenly in the oven.
Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, ground pork, uncooked rice, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, fresh dill, and fresh parsley. Mix thoroughly to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed, which guarantees consistent flavor in every roll.
Assemble Cabbage Rolls: Lay a blanched cabbage leaf flat and place a spoonful of the meat and rice mixture near one edge. Carefully roll the leaf over the filling, folding in the sides tightly to seal the mixture inside. This technique keeps the filling secure during baking and presentation.
Prepare Tomato Sauce: Mix the tomato sauce with 1 cup of water and season it to your taste with salt and pepper. Diluting the sauce slightly ensures it gently simmers the rolls while baking, preventing drying out and infusing them with moisture and acidity.
Arrange and Bake: Spread a small amount of the tomato sauce mixture at the bottom of a baking dish to prevent sticking. Then arrange the rolls seam-side down in the dish, pour the remaining tomato sauce evenly over them, cover tightly with foil, and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 1 hour. Remove the foil during the last 15 minutes to allow the tops to brown slightly.

You Must Know

Ensure cabbage leaves are thoroughly blanched to avoid breakage while rolling and baking.
Use fresh herbs like dill and parsley to brighten the rich meat filling and balance heavy flavors.
Baking covered first then uncovered helps retain moisture and creates a slight crust for texture contrast.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They also freeze well—wrap portions tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain their tenderness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve cabbage rolls hot, accompanied by a dollop of sour cream to add creaminess. Pair with rustic rye bread or a fresh cucumber salad for a balanced and delightful meal.

Professional Tips

Partially cook rice before mixing for a softer filling after baking.
Use a sharp knife to core the cabbage head for easier leaf separation.
Customize fillings by adding sautéed mushrooms or swapping out ground meats for ground turkey.

FAQs

Can I make cabbage rolls ahead of time?: Yes, you can prepare and assemble cabbage rolls a day in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator and bake when ready.
What’s the best way to prevent cabbage leaves from tearing?: Blanch them in boiling water until tender but still firm, then carefully peel them apart. Using a sharp knife to core cabbage also helps ease leaf removal.
Can I use instant rice instead of uncooked rice?: Yes, but reduce the baking time slightly or pre-soak the rice, since instant rice cooks faster and can become mushy if overbaked.
How do I make the sauce more flavorful?: Add a splash of red wine, a pinch of smoked paprika, or sauté onions and garlic before mixing with tomato sauce for enhanced depth.
Are cabbage rolls gluten-free?: This traditional recipe is naturally gluten-free if all ingredients are checked, especially for any added seasonings or sauces.