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Comforting Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef and Rice

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These comforting cabbage rolls combine savory ground beef and tender rice wrapped in cabbage leaves, baked in a flavorful tomato sauce. Perfect for a cozy, hearty dinner that’s easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 large green cabbage
  • 2 cups tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cabbage leaves: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully peel off about 12 large outer cabbage leaves, keeping them intact. Submerge leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until pliable but not soggy. Drain and place on a clean kitchen towel to cool. Trim the thick vein at the base of each leaf.
  2. Cook the rice: Rinse 1 cup of long-grain white rice under cold water. Cook according to package instructions, typically simmering in 2 cups of water for 15-18 minutes until tender. Fluff with a fork and let cool slightly.
  3. Make the filling: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and parsley. Mix gently until evenly combined without overmixing.
  4. Assemble the rolls: Place a cabbage leaf flat on a work surface. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of filling near the base. Fold sides over filling and roll tightly toward the tip. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
  5. Prepare the sauce: Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add tomato sauce, sugar, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 5 minutes.
  6. Bake the cabbage rolls: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of sauce in a baking dish. Arrange cabbage rolls seam side down snugly in the dish. Pour remaining sauce over the top. Cover tightly with foil or lid and bake for 50-60 minutes until cabbage is tender and filling cooked through.
  7. Rest and serve: Let cabbage rolls rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle.

Notes

Blanch cabbage leaves just until pliable to avoid tearing. Trim thick veins for easier rolling. Avoid overmixing filling to keep texture tender. Cover dish tightly during baking to keep rolls moist. If sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or broth before baking.

Nutrition

Keywords: cabbage rolls, ground beef, rice, comfort food, easy dinner, homemade, tomato sauce, cozy meal

Find it online: https://atomicbite.com/comforting-cabbage-rolls-with-ground-beef-and-rice-easy-homemade-recipe/