Meatball Cabbage Rolls are a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender cabbage leaves with flavorful meatballs tucked inside and simmered in a rich tomato sauce. The cabbage softens as it cooks, while the meatballs, made with a savory blend of ground meat, rice, and herbs, soak up the delicious sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner, offering a warm and satisfying meal that’s surprisingly easy to make. Each bite brings a tender balance of meat, vegetables, and sauce that’s sure to delight.
Ingredients:
Meatballs:
- 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1/2 cup cooked rice
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cabbage Rolls:
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup water or beef broth
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cabbage Leaves: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully peel off 10-12 large cabbage leaves and blanch them in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they soften. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Meatballs: In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, salt, and pepper until well combined. Form the mixture into medium-sized meatballs.
- Assemble the Cabbage Rolls: Place one meatball in the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf over the meatball and roll it up, securing the meatball inside the cabbage.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet or pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and water or broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Cook the Cabbage Rolls: Place the cabbage rolls seam side down in the tomato sauce, making sure they are snug in the pot. Cover and simmer on low heat for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the cabbage is tender and the meatballs are cooked through.
- Serve: Serve the cabbage rolls hot, spooning the tomato sauce over the top.
Enjoy the flavorful and comforting goodness of Meatball Cabbage Rolls, a perfect meal for a cozy night in!
