There’s something so comforting about Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls — tender cabbage leaves filled with seasoned ground beef and rice, simmered in rich tomato sauce until perfectly soft. It’s one of those recipes that tastes like home no matter where you are.
The first time I made these cabbage rolls, I was trying to recreate the dish my grandmother used to serve on chilly Sundays. The smell of tomatoes and garlic simmering slowly filled the kitchen, and by the time dinner was ready, the whole family was gathered around the table, just like old times. Now, this recipe sits proudly alongside my Old-Fashioned Southern Meatloaf and Loaded Cornbread Casserole as a family-favorite comfort meal.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully peel off outer cabbage leaves and boil for 2–3 minutes until soft. Drain and let cool.
- In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until fully combined.
- Lay a cabbage leaf flat, spoon 2–3 tablespoons of filling into the center, and roll tightly, tucking in the sides.
- In a bowl, mix together tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Spread a thin layer of sauce in a large pot or baking dish. Arrange rolls seam-side down. Pour remaining sauce on top. Cover and cook on low for 1½ hours, or bake at 350°F for the same time.
- Spoon sauce over rolls and garnish with parsley. Serve warm.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Why You’ll Love Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls
This dish combines everything we love in comfort food: hearty beef, tender vegetables, a rich tomato base, and just the right balance of spices. It’s nourishing, satisfying, and makes the best leftovers.
If you’re a fan of classic comfort dishes like my Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes or Creamy Cheesy Potato Soup, you’ll fall for this timeless recipe.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 pound ground beef (or half beef, half pork for richer flavor)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
If you enjoy tomato-based comfort meals, you’ll also love my Hearty Pasta Fagioli Soup — another cozy, old-fashioned favorite.
How to Make Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls
Step 1: Prep the Cabbage
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully peel off the outer cabbage leaves and boil them for 2–3 minutes until soft. Drain and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until combined.
Step 3: Roll the Cabbage
Lay a cabbage leaf flat, spoon 2–3 tablespoons of filling into the center, and roll tightly, tucking in the sides as you go.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Step 5: Assemble and Cook
Spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of a large pot or baking dish. Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down, then pour the remaining sauce evenly over the top. Cover and cook on low heat for 1½ hours (or bake at 350°F for the same time) until tender.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Spoon sauce over the rolls before serving. Garnish with parsley for a pop of color.
If you love cozy meals like this, try my Cajun Potato Soup next — another hearty dish perfect for cold evenings.
Tips for Perfect Cabbage Rolls
- Don’t skip boiling the cabbage: It makes rolling easy and prevents tearing.
- Use cooked rice: Keeps the filling soft and perfectly textured.
- Layer with sauce: Keeps everything moist and flavorful.
- Let it rest: The flavors develop beautifully after sitting for a few minutes.
These same little details are what make my Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole turn out perfectly every time — it’s all about balance.
What to Serve with Cabbage Rolls
- Mashed potatoes
- Buttered rolls
- Steamed green beans
- My Christmas Bread Recipe for a sweet and savory touch
How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerate: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Store cooled rolls with sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Thaw overnight and bake at 325°F until heated through.
Like my Cranberry Orange Walnut Bread, these taste even better after the flavors have had a chance to blend overnight.
Flavor Variations
- Half Beef, Half Pork: Adds depth and juiciness.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper.
- Cheesy Rolls: Mix shredded mozzarella into the filling.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace meat with lentils or mushrooms.
If you love easy-to-customize comfort dishes, you’ll also enjoy my Beef and Chickpea Skillet — it’s hearty and flexible just like this recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use savoy cabbage instead of green?
Yes! It’s softer and even easier to roll.
2. Can I use uncooked rice?
It’s best to use cooked rice so the rolls cook evenly.
3. Can I make them ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare and refrigerate up to 24 hours before cooking.
4. Can I use marinara sauce instead of tomato sauce?
Yes — it adds a slightly Italian twist and extra flavor.
The Final Bite
These Old-Fashioned Cabbage Rolls are pure comfort in every bite — tender, saucy, and full of homestyle flavor. They’re the kind of dish that brings people together, whether for Sunday dinner or a weeknight meal that feels extra special.
Serve with mashed potatoes or my Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes for the ultimate cozy dinner combo — simple, soulful, and satisfying.