Beef and Rice Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce are a timeless comfort dish enjoyed in many cultures, from Eastern Europe to the Middle East. Tender cabbage leaves are wrapped around a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and herbs, then simmered slowly in a rich tomato sauce until the flavors meld perfectly.

This recipe is hearty, nostalgic, and deeply satisfying, offering warmth in every bite. It’s a wonderful make-ahead meal that feels both homely and elegant, making it suitable for family dinners, celebrations, or cozy weekend cooking. The combination of tender meat, soft rice, and tangy tomato sauce creates a beautifully balanced dish.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it transforms simple, wholesome ingredients into something truly comforting and flavorful. Each roll is like a little package filled with warmth, and the slow cooking process allows everything to become tender and delicious. The cabbage softens beautifully, the beef and rice become perfectly cooked, and the sauce infuses every layer with tangy richness.

It’s a dish that tastes even better the next day, making it great for leftovers. The preparation feels therapeutic, and the result feels like a reward you want to share.

Why This Dish Is a Must-Try

This dish is a must-try because it’s budget-friendly, nutritious, and deeply comforting. It uses pantry staples yet delivers restaurant-quality comfort food. The slow braising in tomato sauce enriches every roll and keeps everything moist and flavorful. It’s naturally adaptable—you can swap the meat, adjust the seasoning, or add vegetables.

It’s also perfect for meal prepping, freezing, and feeding a crowd. If you enjoy classic, home-cooked dishes that are worth every minute of preparation, cabbage rolls are an essential recipe to master.

Preparation and Cooking Details

Preparation Time: 35 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
Servings: 6–8 servings
Calories: Approximately 380 calories per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Eastern European / Comfort Food

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls

1 large head of green cabbage
1 lb (450 g) ground beef
1 cup cooked rice (or uncooked parboiled rice, optional)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 egg
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme or dill (optional)

For the Tomato Sauce

2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
1 cup beef broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ins

½ cup grated carrot
¼ cup chopped parsley
Splash of lemon juice for brightness

Cooking Directions Overview

Prepare cabbage leaves, mix filling ingredients, roll the cabbage, assemble in a pot or baking dish, and simmer or bake in tomato sauce until tender.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Carefully remove outer leaves from the cabbage.
3. Blanch cabbage leaves for 2–3 minutes until pliable.
4. Drain and cool.
5. Trim thick stem portions to make rolling easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Mix gently until well combined.
3. Add optional herbs or grated carrot if desired.

Step 3: Fill and Roll the Cabbage

1. Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a board.
2. Place about 2 tablespoons of filling near the base.
3. Roll tightly, tucking in the sides to create a neat roll.
4. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

1. In a bowl, mix tomato sauce, beef broth, tomato paste, sugar, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir until smooth.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

1. Line the bottom of a pot or baking dish with small or torn cabbage leaves.
2. Arrange rolls seam-side down in a snug layer.
3. Pour tomato sauce mixture evenly over the rolls.

Step 6: Cook the Cabbage Rolls

Stovetop Method:
Simmer covered on low heat for 75–90 minutes until tender.

Oven Method:
Bake covered at 350°F (180°C) for 1½ hours.

Step 7: Rest and Serve

Let the rolls rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve the cabbage rolls hot with extra tomato sauce spooned over the top. They pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a side of green salad. A dollop of sour cream adds richness, while fresh herbs or lemon juice brighten the flavors.

Recipe Tips

Use a sharp knife to trim thick cabbage leaf veins.
Do not overfill the rolls—they expand slightly while cooking.
Pack rolls snugly to prevent unraveling.
Add sugar to the tomato sauce to balance acidity.
Let the rolls sit overnight for enhanced flavor.
Use Savoy cabbage for easier rolling if available.

Variations in Detail

Turkey or Chicken Cabbage Rolls

Swap beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.

Vegetarian Cabbage Rolls

Use mushrooms, lentils, chickpeas, or quinoa instead of meat.

Spicy Cabbage Rolls

Add chili flakes, paprika, or cayenne to the filling and sauce.

Middle Eastern Style

Add cinnamon, cumin, and pine nuts for a fragrant twist.

Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Skillet

Chop cabbage and cook everything together for a quicker meal.

Freezing and Storage Time

Refrigeration

Store cooked cabbage rolls in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Freezing

Freeze fully cooked cabbage rolls with sauce for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight and reheat covered.
Do not freeze uncooked rolls with raw meat.

Special Equipment Needed

Large stockpot
Large mixing bowl
Sharp knife
Deep pot or Dutch oven
Baking dish (optional)
Ladle

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use red cabbage?

Green or Savoy cabbage works best; red cabbage becomes tough and discolors.

Do I have to cook the rice first?

Parboiled rice can be used uncooked; regular rice should be cooked beforehand.

Why are my rolls falling apart?

They may not be rolled tightly enough or the leaves were too stiff.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook on low for 6–7 hours.

Is it okay to substitute the tomato sauce?

Crushed tomatoes, tomato soup, or marinara sauce work well.

Conclusion

Beef and Rice Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce are a deeply satisfying, traditional comfort meal that brings rich flavor and hearty nourishment to the table. The tender cabbage, seasoned beef, and tangy tomato sauce create a beautifully balanced dish that feels both rustic and refined. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or stocking your freezer with make-ahead meals, this recipe is versatile, comforting, and timeless. Enjoy its warmth, richness, and the joy of crafting a classic dish that never goes out of style.