Tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory beef and rice filling, then simmered in a tangy tomato sauce until everything is melt‑in‑your‑mouth cozy—that’s the kind of dinner that makes the whole house smell like home. These stuffed cabbage rolls feel like something a grandmother would serve you with a knowing smile and a second helping already waiting.

This version is designed for busy home cooks in the U.S. who still want that Sunday‑supper comfort on a weeknight. You can prep the rolls ahead, freeze them for later, or tuck them into a low, slow simmer while you set the table. Every bite is saucy, satisfying, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.

What Kind of Cabbage Works Best for Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?

For classic stuffed cabbage rolls, green cabbage is your best friend. It has sturdy leaves that soften beautifully when boiled, so they’re flexible enough to roll but still hold their shape while cooking. Savoy cabbage works too, and its crinkly leaves are extra tender, but green cabbage is easier to find and usually more affordable.

Choose a medium head with tight, heavy leaves. The outer leaves should be unblemished and not too thick. If your cabbage is very large, you’ll get extra leaves for a few bonus rolls; if it’s smaller, you may simply make the rolls a bit more compact.

Ingredients for Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Green cabbage – The leafy wrapper that keeps the filling contained and turns soft and silky after simmering.

Ground beef – Brings hearty, meaty flavor to the filling so each roll eats like a full meal.

Ground pork – Adds richness and tenderness, keeping the filling juicy instead of dry.

Cooked white rice – Helps stretch the meat, adds a comforting bite, and soaks up all the delicious tomato sauce.

Onion – Finely chopped onion brings gentle sweetness and depth to the filling.

Garlic – Fresh garlic wakes up the meat mixture and the sauce with savory aroma.

Egg – Acts as a binder so the filling holds together in neat slices when you cut into the rolls.

Tomato sauce – Forms the base of the braising liquid, coating every roll in a tangy, comforting blanket.

Crushed tomatoes – Add body and texture to the sauce so it clings to the cabbage.

Beef broth – Thins the sauce just enough and infuses the rolls with extra savory flavor while they simmer.

Brown sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes and gives the sauce a subtle sweetness.

Red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar – Brightens the sauce and gives it that classic tang you expect in stuffed cabbage.

Paprika – Adds warm, gentle smokiness to both the filling and the sauce.

Dried thyme – A simple herb that brings an earthy, homestyle flavor to the dish.

Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning the filling and the sauce so every bite tastes bold and balanced.

Olive oil – Used to sauté the aromatics and lightly grease the baking dish so nothing sticks.

Fresh parsley – Sprinkled on top for color and a burst of fresh, herby flavor right before serving.

How To Make the Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Step 1: Soften the Cabbage Leaves

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully core the cabbage, then lower the whole head into the pot. Boil for several minutes, peeling away the outer leaves with tongs as they soften. Transfer the tender leaves to a towel‑lined tray to cool, and trim the thick rib at the base of each leaf so they roll easily without tearing.

Step 2: Mix the Savory Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, cooked white rice, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Use clean hands or a fork to mix just until everything is evenly distributed. You want the mixture combined but not overworked so the rolls stay tender.

Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Braising Sauce

In a separate bowl or large measuring jug, whisk together the tomato sauce, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, brown sugar, vinegar, a pinch of paprika, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning—you’re looking for a balance of savory, slightly sweet, and pleasantly tangy.

Step 4: Fill and Roll the Cabbage

Lay a cooled cabbage leaf flat, rib side down. Place a small handful of the meat mixture near the base. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll up from the bottom, like a snug burrito. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling, arranging each roll seam‑side down on a plate.

Step 5: Nestle the Rolls in the Baking Dish

Lightly oil a large baking dish or Dutch oven. Spoon a thin layer of tomato sauce over the bottom, then tuck the cabbage rolls in snugly in a single layer. If you have extra, you can stack a second layer on top. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls, making sure everything is well covered.

Step 6: Bake Until Tender and Bubbly

Cover the dish tightly with foil or a lid and bake in a moderate oven until the cabbage is very tender and the meat is fully cooked through. The sauce should be thickened and gently bubbling around the edges. If you’d like a bit of caramelization, uncover for the last 10–15 minutes of baking.

Step 7: Rest, Garnish, and Serve

Let the stuffed cabbage rolls rest for about 10 minutes so the juices settle and the rolls firm up slightly. Spoon extra sauce over the top, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve warm with your favorite creamy or starchy sides.

Serving and Storing Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Stuffed cabbage rolls are one of those dishes that taste even better the next day. Serve them hot from the oven with a generous ladle of sauce, a dollop of sour cream if you like, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. They’re cozy enough for Sunday dinner but simple enough to work into your regular dinner rotation.

To store leftovers, cool the rolls completely, then transfer them with their sauce to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions or a whole pan of rolls for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop with a splash of broth until warmed through.

What to Serve With Stuffed Cabbage Rolls?

Buttery Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up all that rich tomato sauce and make the whole meal feel extra indulgent.

Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes

If you’re in the mood for something extra cheesy, a pan of Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes is a dreamy partner for these rolls, adding layers of tender potatoes and melty cheese to your plate.

Simple Green Salad

A crisp salad with lettuce, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette brings freshness and crunch to balance the hearty cabbage and meat.

Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes

For a slightly sweet, herby twist, pair your rolls with Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes—the caramelized edges and rosemary aroma play beautifully with the tangy tomato sauce.

Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls

Warm, buttered bread is ideal for mopping up every last drop of sauce and turning dinner into true comfort food.

Want More Comfort Food Dinner Ideas?

If these stuffed cabbage rolls have you craving even more cozy, saucy dinners, you’ll love trying a few of these favorites from Savor Queen:

Runza Casserole – All the flavors of the classic Midwestern sandwich baked into a hearty casserole that’s perfect for chilly evenings. (https://savorqueen.com/runza-casserole-a-comforting-midwestern-classic/)
Easy Shepherd’s Pie – A layer of savory meat and veggies topped with fluffy mashed potatoes and baked until golden and bubbling. (https://savorqueen.com/easy-shepherds-pie/)
Easy Beef Stroganoff – Tender beef in a creamy mushroom sauce, served over noodles for the ultimate weeknight comfort. (https://savorqueen.com/easy-beef-stroganoff/)
Cabbage Fat Burning Soup – A lighter way to enjoy cabbage in a flavorful, veggie‑packed soup that still feels warm and satisfying. (https://savorqueen.com/cabbage-fat-burning-soup/)
Crock Pot Cube Steak and Gravy – Slow‑cooked beef in rich gravy that’s begging to be spooned over mashed potatoes or rice. (https://savorqueen.com/crock-pot-cube-steak-and-gravy/)

Save This Pin For Later

Keep this stuffed cabbage roll recipe handy by saving it to your favorite Pinterest dinner board—you’ll be glad you did the next time you’re craving a cozy, make‑ahead meal.

If you put your own spin on it, maybe by using ground turkey, adding a pinch of cayenne, or sneaking in extra veggies, come back and share how it turned out. Your tweaks might inspire someone else’s new family favorite.

Looking for even more everyday dinner ideas, comforting casseroles, and easy desserts? Follow Savor Queen on Pinterest to see what’s cooking in my kitchen each day: https://www.pinterest.com/mydelicioushomerecipes/