Beef And Rice Cabbage Rolls

Name: Beef And Rice Cabbage Rolls
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 large head of cabbage; 1 pound ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; 1 tablespoon olive oil

Highlighted under: Warm Cooking

I absolutely love making Beef And Rice Cabbage Rolls because they bring a warm, hearty comfort to the table that feels like a big hug. Every time I prepare them, the kitchen fills with an inviting aroma that makes everyone gather around. The combination of tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of beef and rice is not just delicious, but it's also a great way to sneak in some veggies. Plus, these rolls are a wonderful option for meal prepping! They freeze beautifully and reheat well, making them a practical choice for busy weeks.

Created by

Xanthe Beaumont

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:25:36.525Z

Creating these Beef And Rice Cabbage Rolls has become a cherished tradition in my home. The process might seem a bit labor-intensive at first, but I find it therapeutic to roll up each cabbage leaf meticulously. I often experiment with the seasoning based on what's available in my pantry, which always brings a delightful twist to the dish. My tip? Make sure to blanch the cabbage leaves properly before rolling them; it ensures they are pliable and easy to work with!

One time, I added some fresh herbs from my garden like dill and parsley, and it turned out to be a game changer! Not only did it elevate the flavor, but it also made the dish feel even more vibrant and fresh. I like to serve these rolls with a side of tangy tomato sauce, which complements the flavors perfectly, so don’t skip that!

Why You Will Love These Rolls
Juicy beef filling paired with fragrant rice
Versatile dish that can be customized with various herbs and spices
Perfect for meal prep and easy to freeze for later

Choosing the Right Cabbage

For this recipe, using a large head of cabbage is essential. Look for cabbage that feels heavy for its size and has tightly packed leaves. Savoy or green cabbage are great choices, as they’re tender and easily pliable. Avoid cabbages with wilted or brown spots, as this can affect both the flavor and texture of your rolls. If you’re short on time, you can also use pre-shredded cabbage as a base for a deconstructed version of this dish.

When boiling the cabbage, make sure to submerge the entire head for the recommended 3-5 minutes. This ensures the outer leaves soften enough to peel off easily. If some leaves remain too firm, return them to the hot water briefly, but take care not to over-boil. Overcooked leaves may tear and create challenges during assembly. With a little patience, you’ll have perfectly pliable leaves ready for rolling.

Perfecting the Filling

The balance between the beef and the rice is crucial for a satisfying filling. I recommend using a blend of 80/20 ground beef for optimal juiciness and flavor. The cooked rice not only adds bulk but also helps in binding the mixture, absorbing flavors from the sautéed onion and garlic. For a slightly smoky flavor, consider adding a dash of Worcestershire sauce or smoked paprika to the filling before mixing.

Feel free to customize the filling according to your preferences. Chopped bell peppers, diced tomatoes, or even spinach can be added to enhance the veggie content. When mixing the ingredients, it’s best to use your hands to ensure everything is well integrated. Overworking your mixture can lead to a dense filling, so mix gently until just combined.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Beef And Rice Cabbage Rolls

Cabbage Rolls

1 large head of cabbage
1 pound ground beef
1 cup cooked rice
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil

Make sure to have these ingredients fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Instructions to Prepare Beef And Rice Cabbage Rolls

Prepare the Cabbage

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully place the whole cabbage in the boiling water for about 3-5 minutes until the outer leaves are soft. Remove the cabbage and let it cool. Gently peel off 12-14 leaves and set aside.

Make the Filling

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, sautéed onion and garlic, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Rolls

Lay a cabbage leaf flat and place about 2-3 tablespoons of the beef filling at the base of the leaf. Fold in the sides and roll it up tightly. Repeat until all filling is used.

Cook the Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the cabbage rolls seam side down in the dish and cover with remaining tomato sauce. Cook in the preheated oven for about 45 minutes.

Serve

Once cooked, let them sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious cabbage rolls warm with extra sauce if desired!

Enjoy your meal and share with family!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add some crushed red pepper flakes to the meat mixture. These rolls also work beautifully with ground turkey for a lighter option.

Storage and Freezing Tips

If you’re planning to make a batch in advance, you can store the assembled cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Ensure they are covered with sauce to keep the leaves moist. For longer storage, these rolls freeze exceptionally well. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be kept frozen for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply place the frozen rolls in a baking dish, cover with sauce, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until heated through. If you prefer a quicker option, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating, which cuts the cooking time in half. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook, which can lead to soggy leaves.

Serving Suggestions

Cabbage rolls can be enjoyed straight from the oven, but I love serving them with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added flavor. A side of crusty bread or a light salad pairs nicely, allowing you to balance the richness of the beef filling. For a zesty twist, consider serving them with a tangy vinaigrette on the side.

These rolls can also make a fantastic addition to a potluck or a gathering. If you want to impress guests, consider making a big batch and presenting them on a platter, drizzled with additional warm tomato sauce. Not only do they look inviting, but they also allow guests to serve themselves while enjoying the communal experience of this hearty dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work well as alternatives.

→ How do I store leftover cabbage rolls?

Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I make these rolls vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute the meat with a blend of lentils and mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian filling.

→ What should I serve with cabbage rolls?

They pair wonderfully with a side salad or crusty bread.