Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef and Rice are a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender cabbage leaves filled with a flavorful mixture of seasoned ground beef, rice, and onions. Simmered in a tangy tomato sauce, these rolls absorb the rich flavors, becoming melt-in-your-mouth delicious. This traditional dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner and can be made ahead for easy weeknight meals. Each bite is a wonderful balance of savory meat, fluffy rice, and soft cabbage, all brought together by the warm, tomatoey sauce.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional)
- 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice
Instructions:
- Prepare the cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and boil the whole head for 5-7 minutes, until the outer leaves are tender. Remove from the pot and separate about 12 large cabbage leaves. Set aside.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, uncooked rice, diced onion, garlic, egg, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Assemble the rolls: Place about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture onto the center of each cabbage leaf. Roll the leaf tightly, folding in the sides as you go to create a neat package.
- Prepare the sauce: In a medium bowl, mix the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, sugar (if using), vinegar or lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Cook the rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce mixture. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish, and pour the remaining sauce over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let the rolls cool for a few minutes before serving. Spoon some of the sauce over the top and enjoy with a side of crusty bread or mashed potatoes.
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef and Rice are a comforting, flavorful dish that brings together rich textures and savory flavors, perfect for a cozy family meal!
