If you’re craving a dish that’s both heartwarming and deeply satisfying, you’re in for a treat with the Joyful 70-Min Cabbage Rolls With Savory Beef Recipe. This classic comfort food brings tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a juicy, flavorful beef and rice filling, all baked in a rich, well-balanced tomato sauce. It’s the perfect combination of textures and tastes, and the kind of recipe that invites you to slow down and savor each bite with a smile.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward creating this memorable meal. Each is simple yet essential—from the wholesome cabbage that provides a tender, earthy wrap, to the savory ground beef that delivers richness and depth, every component plays a starring role in making these cabbage rolls irresistible.
- 1 large green cabbage (about 3 pounds): This forms the soft, pliable leaves perfect for rolling and baking.
- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean): Adds juicy, meaty flavor while keeping the filling tender.
- 1 cup cooked long grain white rice (cooled): Gives body and a pleasant bite to the filling without overpowering it.
- 1 small yellow onion (finely diced): Infuses subtle sweetness and moisture into the meat mixture.
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic: Provides a warm, inviting aroma and a mild spicy kick.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder to hold the filling together for neat rolls.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the natural flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth to the beef mixture.
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce: Forms the vibrant base of the baking sauce with rich tomato flavor.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) condensed tomato soup: Adds creaminess and a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings a smoky, subtle warmth that rounds out the sauce beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Introduces an herby brightness that complements the beef perfectly.
- 1 cup water: Lightens the sauce to ensure everything cooks evenly and stays moist.
How to Make Joyful 70-Min Cabbage Rolls With Savory Beef Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F and lightly oiling a 9 by 13 inch baking dish to ensure nothing sticks during baking. Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil, then carefully lower in the whole cabbage. Let it cook for 8 to 10 minutes until the outer leaves become flexible and easy to work with, which is key to rolling without tearing. Drain and allow the cabbage to cool just enough to handle. Gently peel away 12 large leaves, then trim the thick center vein of each so the leaves lie flat and are easier to roll.
Step 2: Make the Savory Beef Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, finely diced onion, minced garlic, egg, kosher salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything evenly. This filling is the heart of the recipe, so be sure all the flavors meld well together for maximum tastiness when baked inside the tender cabbage leaves.
Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
In a separate bowl, whisk together the tomato sauce, condensed tomato soup, paprika, dried oregano, and water. This sauce will nourish the cabbage rolls during baking, infusing them with a rich, comforting flavor that ties every mouthful together perfectly.
Step 4: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls
Spread 1 cup of the prepared sauce evenly over the bottom of your baking dish. Then, take one cabbage leaf and place about half a cup of the beef mixture near its base. Fold in the sides of the leaf gently, then roll tightly from the bottom up, securing the filling inside. Arrange each roll seam side down in the dish so they hold their shape during cooking and look beautiful when served.
Step 5: Bake to Perfect Tenderness
Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the cabbage rolls and cover the dish tightly with foil. Bake in the preheated oven for exactly 70 minutes, until the rolls are tender, the filling is cooked through, and reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. For the final touch, remove the foil and bake uncovered for 10 more minutes to thicken the sauce slightly—this step adds a lovely finish to the dish’s texture and flavor.
How to Serve Joyful 70-Min Cabbage Rolls With Savory Beef Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your presentation and taste by adding fresh garnishes like chopped parsley or dill, which lend a bright herbal note and fresh color to each plate. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese also pairs wonderfully, adding creaminess that complements the savory beef perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair your cabbage rolls with buttery mashed potatoes or a rustic loaf of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious tomato sauce. A light mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast that balances the hearty main dish beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, try layering the cabbage rolls vertically in a casserole dish for a striking stacked effect. Alternatively, serve each roll on individual plates, drizzled generously with sauce and accompanied by a lemon wedge to brighten the savoriness with a subtle citrus twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, allow any leftover cabbage rolls to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. They will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it easy to enjoy this comforting dish again without extra prep.
Freezing
If you want to save cabbage rolls for longer, freeze them after baking. Place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap individually in foil and then plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. They can be stored for up to 3 months without losing that homemade flavor and tenderness.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen cabbage rolls in the refrigerator overnight for best results. Warm gently in the oven at 350°F covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions on medium power, covering loosely to retain moisture and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cabbage?
Green cabbage works best for this recipe due to its pliable leaves and mild flavor, but you can experiment with savoy cabbage for extra texture and a slightly earthier taste. Just be sure the leaves are large enough to roll.
Is it possible to make the filling vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the ground beef for a mixture of cooked lentils, mushrooms, and rice to mimic the texture and savoriness while keeping it vegetarian. Adjust seasonings accordingly to keep the flavor profile rich and satisfying.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assembling the cabbage rolls and storing them in the sauce ahead of baking actually enhances the flavors. You can prepare everything a day in advance, cover tightly, and bake when ready for dinner.
What if I don’t cook the cabbage leaves first?
Parboiling the cabbage leaves softens them enough to roll without tearing and ensures they cook thoroughly during baking. Skipping this step may result in tougher, less pliable rolls, so it’s worth the short extra time.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are fully cooked?
The best way is to check that the internal temperature of the beef filling reaches 160°F with a food thermometer. Additionally, the cabbage should be tender, and the sauce bubbly and slightly thickened for perfect doneness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Joyful 70-Min Cabbage Rolls With Savory Beef Recipe that feels like a hug in food form. From the tender cabbage to the juicy filling and rich, aromatic tomato sauce, every bite brings comfort and joy. I can’t recommend this enough for a cozy weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal that impresses. Give it a try, and watch it become one of your go-to favorites too!
Print
Joyful 70-Min Cabbage Rolls With Savory Beef Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and aromatic seasonings, baked in a balanced tomato sauce for a comforting and hearty meal. This make-ahead friendly recipe offers juicy, flavorful cabbage rolls perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Cabbage and Filling
- 1 large green cabbage (about 3 pounds)
- 1 pound ground beef (85 percent lean)
- 1 cup cooked long grain white rice, cooled
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Tomato Sauce
- 1 can tomato sauce (15 ounces)
- 1 can condensed tomato soup (10.5 ounces)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly oil a 9 by 13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Soften Cabbage Leaves: Bring a large pot of water to a gentle boil. Carefully lower in the whole cabbage and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes until the outer leaves become flexible enough to handle without tearing. Drain and cool slightly to make removal easier.
- Remove and Trim Leaves: Gently peel off 12 large cabbage leaves. Trim the thick center rib from each leaf carefully so that each leaf can lie flat and wrap easily around the filling.
- Make Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked and cooled rice, finely diced onion, minced garlic, egg, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Prepare Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the tomato sauce, condensed tomato soup, paprika, dried oregano, and water until well combined.
- Assemble Rolls: Spread 1 cup of the tomato sauce mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place about half a cup of the beef filling near the base of each cabbage leaf, fold the sides inwards, and roll the leaf tightly around the filling. Arrange each roll seam side down in the baking dish.
- Bake Covered: Pour the remaining tomato sauce evenly over the arranged cabbage rolls. Cover the dish tightly with foil to retain moisture and bake in the preheated oven for 70 minutes, or until the cabbage leaves are tender and the meat reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
- Finalize Baking: Remove the foil and continue baking the rolls uncovered for an additional 10 minutes. This step helps thicken the sauce slightly, enhancing the overall flavor and texture before serving.
Notes
- Be sure to trim the thick ribs on cabbage leaves carefully to avoid tearing but still maintain structure for wrapping.
- Using ground beef that is about 85% lean provides a good balance of flavor and moisture.
- Check the internal temperature of the beef filling to ensure food safety; it should reach 160°F.
- This recipe is make-ahead friendly; prepared rolls can be made in advance and baked just before serving.
- If cabbage leaves are too tough, blanch longer but avoid overcooking to prevent leaves from falling apart.
