Old-fashioned stuffed cabbage rolls have a way of transporting you back to hearty family dinners and cozy gatherings. This recipe, rich in flavors and remedies, is a nostalgic classic that has stood the test of time. With tender cabbage leaves enveloping a savory filling of ground beef and rice, these rolls are perfect for a family meal, holiday feast, or even a comforting weeknight dinner. Over the years, I’ve perfected this recipe to ensure it not only tastes great but also evokes those wonderful memories of home-cooked bliss.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
There’s something uniquely comforting about stuffed cabbage rolls. They are affordable, make for excellent leftovers, and are a complete meal in one bite. When you scoop into a warm cabbage roll, you’re met with a delightful burst of flavors that meld beautifully, thanks to the zesty blend of Worcestershire sauce, aromatic garlic, and fresh herbs. This recipe is ideal for meal prep or festive family gatherings. Plus, kids often love helping to roll them up!
"This recipe brought back so many memories of my grandmother’s cooking. The flavors are spot on, and it’s like a warm hug on a plate!"
Preparing Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Cooking these cabbage rolls is a delightful journey that includes boiling, mixing, rolling, and baking. Here’s a brief overview: First, cook your rice and mix it with ground beef, spices, and herbs. While that mixture sits, you’ll boil the cabbage to soften the leaves, making them easier to roll. Finally, you’ll layer everything in a baking dish and let the oven work its magic.
What You’ll Need
To create your delicious stuffed cabbage rolls, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 cup COOKED long-grain rice
- 1.5 pounds lean ground beef
- 1.5 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 large egg
- 1 yellow onion, peeled and minced
- 1/3 cup parsley, roughly chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 teaspoons salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- 42 ounces tomato sauce, divided
- 1 medium head green cabbage
- 1/2 cup water (leftover from boiling cabbage)
- Fresh dill, chopped (garnish, optional)
Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or switch up the spices to match your family’s taste profile.
