If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting dish that feels like a warm hug, this Classic Cabbage Roll Delight is your go-to. It’s a nostalgic favorite that balances savory beef with tender cabbage and a rich tomato sauce.
Green cabbage is the star of this dish, providing a sturdy yet tender wrap for the filling. It’s mild in flavor, allowing the spices and beef to shine. Ground beef adds a rich, savory depth. Choose a leaner cut to avoid excess grease. Long grain white rice gives the rolls a satisfying texture and helps bind the filling together. Onion and garlic are sautéed to bring out their sweetness and add aromatic depth. A blend of salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme seasons the filling, infusing it with warmth and complexity. The tomato sauce and diced tomatoes create a luscious, tangy layer that keeps the rolls moist. Worcestershire sauce adds a touch of umami, while beef broth enhances the savory notes. Finally, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
Pair these cabbage rolls with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty rolls. If you're feeling indulgent, add a dollop of sour cream on top for a creamy finish.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. While you’re waiting, cook the rice according to package instructions. This ensures it’s ready to be mixed into the filling when needed. Then, bring a large pot of water to a boil and carefully lower the whole head of cabbage in. Boil it for about 5 minutes. This softens the leaves, making them flexible enough to wrap around the filling.
In a skillet, heat up some olive oil over medium heat and toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté these until they’re just fragrant and tender, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This step releases their sweetness and forms the aromatic base for the filling.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and thyme. Mix everything together thoroughly. It’s easiest to use your hands here to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Now comes the fun part – assembling the rolls! Carefully peel off the cabbage leaves and layer half of them in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread half of the meat mixture over these leaves, then top with the remaining cabbage leaves and the rest of the meat mixture. This layering technique helps the flavors meld together beautifully during baking.
Mix the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth in a bowl, then pour this tomatoey goodness over the layered cabbage and beef. Cover the dish with foil to trap the steam, helping cook the dish evenly while keeping it moist.
Bake it in the oven for an hour. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for another 15 minutes. This final baking step allows the top to crisp up just a touch, adding a lovely texture contrast. Once done, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving.
Share