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Delicious old-fashioned cabbage rolls served on a plate with sauce.

Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls

A warm and hearty meal packed with flavor, these Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls combine cabbage, ground beef, and rice for a comforting dish perfect for family gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Cabbage and Filling
  • 1 large head green cabbage Remove the core for easier leaf separation.
  • 1 lb ground beef Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
  • 1 cup cooked white rice Leftover rice can be used.
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced Add to filling for flavor.
  • 1 large egg Helps bind the filling.
Seasoning and Sauce
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce For pouring over the cabbage rolls.
  • 1 tsp salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper Freshly ground is preferred.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Can substitute with minced garlic.
  • 1/2 cup water To add moisture while baking.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Boil the cabbage leaves for 3–5 minutes until they soften, then drain and let cool.
Filling
  1. In a bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, diced onion, egg, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
Assembly
  1. Place a portion of the beef mixture onto each cabbage leaf, fold in the sides, and roll tightly.
  2. Spread a little tomato sauce in a baking dish and arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down.
  3. Pour the remaining tomato sauce and water over the rolls.
Baking
  1. Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake for 60–75 minutes, until the beef is fully cooked and the cabbage is tender.
  2. Let the rolls rest for about 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve the cabbage rolls warm with extra tomato sauce, crusty bread, or a simple salad. Garnish with fresh herbs for added flavor.