Old-Fashioned Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by cooking the rice according to package instructions. Once done, set it aside to cool.
Preheat your oven to 350°F.
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, Worcestershire sauce, egg, cooked rice, minced onion, parsley, garlic, salt, black pepper, dill, onion powder, and chili flakes if you’re feeling spicy. Combine everything well.
Bring a large pot of water to a boil, and then add the entire head of cabbage. Boil for 8-10 minutes, or until the leaves begin to soften. Carefully remove the cabbage and let it cool slightly before cutting out the core.
In a 9’x13′ baking dish, place some of the soft cabbage leaves at the bottom.
Lay out the individual cabbage leaves and add about 1/4 cup of the filling mixture into each leaf. Roll them up tightly like burritos.
Mix the remaining tomato sauce with the 1/2 cup of water you reserved from boiling the cabbage, and pour this mixture over the rolled cabbage.
Place additional cabbage leaves on top and tightly cover the dish with foil.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 2 hours and 15-30 minutes. Once done, allow to cool for about 20 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh dill if desired.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

These cabbage rolls shine on their own, but pairing them with crusty bread, a side salad, or a dollop of sour cream elevates the dish even further. For a classic twist, serve with a side of mashed potatoes. A light vegetable soup on the side can also complement these rich rolls beautifully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store leftovers, allow them to cool completely and then transfer them to an airtight container. In the fridge, they will last up to 3 days. You can also freeze the rolls for up to 3 months; just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When reheating, a quick stint in the microwave or an oven at 350°F will bring them back to life.

Helpful Cooking Tips

Ensure the rice is fully cooked before mixing to avoid undercooked texture in your rolls.
If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked rice or even quinoa for a healthier twist.
When boiling the cabbage, gently peel away the leaves as they soften to prevent tearing.

Creative Twists

Get creative with your stuffed cabbage—try adding different proteins, like ground turkey or even lentils for a vegetarian version. You can also experiment with spices; a sprinkle of smoked paprika can introduce a lovely depth. Another option is to turn them into a Mexican-inspired dish by adding diced tomatoes and cumin to the filling!

FAQs

What’s the prep time for these stuffed cabbage rolls?

Typically, you can expect about 30 minutes of prep time before they head into the oven, including the cooking of rice and boiling of the cabbage.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the rolls and store them in the fridge a day in advance before baking them. Just allow extra time in the oven if they go in cold.

How do I know when they are cooked through?

These rolls should be baked until the beef is fully cooked, which generally takes about 2 hours and 15-30 minutes in the oven. Check with a thermometer; the internal temperature should reach at least 160°F.