If you’re looking for a meal that’s hearty, wholesome, and full of flavor, these Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a must-try. Tender cabbage leaves cradle a savory mix of ground meat, rice, and spices, all resting on a bed of roasted vegetables and smothered in a rich tomato sauce. This dish is comfort food at its finest. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or a cozy night in, it’s a beautiful, nourishing bake that will wow everyone at the table.
Stuffed Cabbage Rolls on a Vegetable Bed
Ingredients (Serves 6–8)
For the Cabbage Rolls
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green or Savoy cabbage, 1 large head | 1 |
| Ground beef, turkey, or plant-based meat | 1 lb |
| Cooked rice (white, brown, or wild) | 1 cup |
| Small onion, finely diced | 1 |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 2 |
| Egg (optional, for binding) | 1 |
| Smoked paprika | 1 tsp |
| Dried thyme | 1 tsp |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
For the Sauce
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Crushed tomatoes, 15 oz can | 1 |
| Tomato sauce | ½ cup |
| Chicken or vegetable broth | ¼ cup |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Sugar (optional) | 1 tsp |
| Garlic powder | ½ tsp |
| Salt & black pepper | To taste |
For the Vegetable Bed
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Carrots, sliced | 2 medium |
| Zucchini, chopped | 1 medium |
| Red bell pepper, sliced | 1 |
| Small onion, chopped | 1 |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Optional: salt, pepper, Italian herbs | – |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a large baking dish or casserole pan.
Step 2: Soften the Cabbage
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Submerge the whole cabbage for 5–7 minutes until the outer leaves are soft. Peel off the softened leaves and set aside. Repeat until you have 8–10 leaves ready for rolling.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg (if using), smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated.
Step 4: Roll the Cabbage
Lay a cabbage leaf flat and place 2–3 tablespoons of filling in the center. Fold the sides over and roll it tightly, similar to a burrito. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
Step 5: Prep the Veggie Bed
Toss carrots, zucchini, bell pepper, and onion with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and optional Italian herbs. Spread the veggies evenly across the bottom of the baking dish.
Step 6: Assemble & Bake
Place the cabbage rolls on top of the roasted vegetable bed. In a separate bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients. Pour the sauce evenly over the rolls and vegetables. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 45–50 minutes. Remove the foil and bake an additional 10–15 minutes, until the rolls are tender and the sauce is bubbling.
Step 7: Serve & Enjoy
Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving. Spoon roasted vegetables and sauce alongside each roll. Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
