Beef Stuffed Cabbage

Beef Stuffed Cabbage is a classic comfort dish where tender cabbage leaves are wrapped around a flavorful meat filling, then baked in a savory tomato sauce. It’s hearty, delicious, and perfect for family dinners. Here’s a recipe you can try:

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🧾 Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

For the filling:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef

• 1/2 cup cooked rice (white or brown)

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 egg

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the cabbage:

• 1 large head of cabbage

• Water, for boiling

For the sauce:

• 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce

• 1 can (14.5 oz / 410 g) diced tomatoes

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, balances acidity)

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano or thyme

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the cabbage leaves:

1. Bring a large pot of water to boil.

2. Remove the core from the cabbage.

3. Carefully separate the leaves, and boil them for 2-3 minutes until soft and pliable.

4. Drain and set aside to cool.

2. Make the filling:

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and parsley.

2. Mix until well combined.

3. Assemble the rolls:

1. Lay a cabbage leaf flat, remove the thick vein at the bottom if necessary.

2. Place 2-3 tablespoons of the beef mixture in the center of the leaf.

3. Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly from the bottom up.

4. Repeat until all filling is used.

4. Prepare the sauce:

1. In a bowl, mix tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, brown sugar, salt, pepper, paprika, and oregano.

2. Adjust seasoning to taste.

5. Cook the stuffed cabbage:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Spread a little sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.

3. Place cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish.

4. Pour remaining sauce over the rolls, covering them evenly.

5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45-60 minutes until meat is cooked through and cabbage is tender.

6. Serve:

• Serve hot with mashed potatoes or crusty bread. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

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🌟 Tips & Variations:

• Rice alternatives: You can use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.

• Flavor boost: Sauté the onions and garlic before mixing with beef for extra depth.

• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Assemble, freeze, then cook from frozen with extra baking time.

• Cheesy variation: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a gooey finish.

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This recipe gives tender, flavorful rolls with a savory tomato sauce—perfect for a cozy meal.

If you want, I can also provide a slow-cooker version that’s even easier and makes the cabbage extra tender. Do you want me to do that?