If you’ve ever wanted to impress with a comforting, hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen, this Easy Cabbage Rolls Recipe is exactly what you need. It takes simple, wholesome ingredients—cabbage, seasoned ground meats, rice, and a rich tomato sauce—and transforms them into tender, flavorful rolls that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or preparing a cozy gathering, this recipe is approachable, satisfying, and full of classic flavors that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a clear glass bowl on a white marbled surface filled with large, pale green cabbage leaves. Next to it is a silver frying pan with several distinct layers: at the bottom there is cooked ground meat with a light brown color, on top of the meat is a bright red tomato sauce poured on one side, diced red tomatoes scattered next to the sauce, a mound of white grated cheese in the center, and a small sprinkle of green herbs on top of the cheese. A striped gray and white cloth is next to the pan, and a woman's hand is holding the pan handle. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture while keeping things straightforward. From the fresh cabbage leaves that wrap everything up to the blend of ground turkey and beef that provides a savory, juicy filling, each component plays an essential role in crafting these delicious rolls.

Green cabbage: Choose a firm, fresh head to give you sturdy leaves that soften perfectly when boiled.
Long grain white rice: Slightly undercooked rice absorbs flavors without becoming mushy inside the rolls.
Ground turkey: Adds lean protein with a mild flavor that pairs well with the beef.
Lean ground beef: Brings richness and depth to the filling.
Yellow onions: Finely diced to infuse sweetness and texture.
Garlic cloves: Minced fresh to add that irresistible aromatic punch.
Dried dill: A subtle herb note that brightens the meat mixture.
Fresh parsley: Or dried parsley; it adds a burst of freshness and color.
Salt and black pepper: To taste; these basic seasonings enhance every ingredient.
Can of diced tomatoes: With juices, for added moisture and tang.
Egg: Helps bind the filling together so it stays intact during baking.
Tomato sauce: Divided use creates a luscious, rich sauce for the rolls to bake in.
Condensed tomato soup: Mixed into the sauce to add creaminess and a touch of sweetness.

How to Make Easy Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

Start by boiling the cabbage leaves for about two minutes until they become soft and pliable. This step is crucial to avoid tearing when you roll them later. Carefully peel off the leaves one by one, and set them aside to cool. If the stem is thick, remove or thin it so rolling becomes easier and the leaves lay flat.

Step 2: Preheat and Prep

Warm up your oven to 350°F. This will ensure it’s ready for baking once you finish assembling the rolls. Preheating the oven early also helps maintain consistent cooking temperature for perfectly cooked rolls.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

Cook the long grain rice according to package instructions but reduce the cooking time by about five minutes. This intentional undercooking prevents the rice from getting overly soft inside the rolls, giving the filling a pleasant bite.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, cook the ground turkey, beef, diced onions, garlic, and seasonings until the meat is no longer pink, stirring occasionally to break it up. Drain any excess fat to keep the filling light. Then, stir in the rice, diced tomatoes along with their juices, and one-third cup of tomato sauce. Crack in the egg and mix well to fully incorporate all ingredients, which helps bind the filling.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce Mixture

In a bowl, combine the remaining tomato sauce with the condensed tomato soup. This blend creates a rich, slightly creamy tomato sauce that bakes beautifully over the cabbage rolls, locking in moisture and flavor.

Step 6: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

Spread a very thin layer of the tomato sauce mixture on the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish to prevent sticking. Lay out a cabbage leaf flat, then spoon about a quarter to a third cup of the filling into the center. Fold in the sides and roll it up tightly, sealing all the deliciousness inside. Place each roll seam-side down in the baking dish. Smaller leaves can be tucked inside larger ones to make perfect-sized rolls.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pour the remaining tomato sauce mixture evenly over the assembled cabbage rolls, covering them completely. Cover the dish tightly with foil and bake for 75 to 90 minutes. This slow baking time lets all the flavors meld and ensures the rolls are tender but hold their shape. Allow the rolls to cool for about 15 minutes before serving so they firm up nicely.

How to Serve Easy Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Two rolled cabbage leaves filled and covered with a thick bright red tomato sauce sit on a white round plate. The cabbage rolls have a slightly wrinkled texture and are sprinkled lightly with chopped green herbs. The plate rests on a white marbled surface with a small glass bowl of chopped herbs and a shiny silver pepper grinder in the background. A second white plate with an extra cabbage roll is partially visible behind. The scene is softly lit, highlighting the glossy sauce and fresh herbs. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dollop of sour cream can brighten up each plate. The fresh herbs add color and a burst of flavor that complements the savory cabbage rolls beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve these cabbage rolls with classic sides such as buttery mashed potatoes, a crisp garden salad, or roasted root vegetables. These accompaniments bring complementary textures and flavors, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For an eye-catching presentation, try plating individual cabbage rolls on small plates with a drizzle of extra tomato sauce and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. You can also serve the rolls stacked or arranged in a circular pattern to make a festive centerpiece perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen after a day or two, making reheated leftovers just as delicious, if not better.

Freezing

This Easy Cabbage Rolls Recipe freezes wonderfully. Simply place uncooked assembled rolls in a freezer-safe container or bag. You can also freeze fully cooked rolls with sauce. Label and freeze for up to three months for a convenient ready-to-bake or ready-to-reheat meal later.

Reheating

Reheat refrigerated or thawed cabbage rolls in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil to keep moisture in, for about 20 to 25 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions until warmed through, but baking will maintain the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use only ground beef instead of turkey and beef?

Absolutely! You can use all ground beef if you prefer. The mixture of turkey and beef is optional to lighten the dish, but all beef will provide a richer flavor.

Is it necessary to boil the cabbage leaves first?

Yes, boiling softens the cabbage leaves, making them pliable enough to roll without tearing. Skipping this step usually results in cracked or broken rolls.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, replace the meat with a mixture of cooked lentils, mushrooms, or textured vegetable protein, and adjust seasonings accordingly. The method remains the same.

What type of rice works best for this recipe?

Long grain white rice is preferred because it holds its shape well and doesn’t become too sticky. However, you can try brown rice if you adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How do I prevent the casserole from drying out during baking?

Covering the dish tightly with foil and using enough tomato sauce and soup mixture ensures the rolls stay moist. Avoid uncovering the dish too early during baking to keep the moisture trapped inside.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about rolling up fresh cabbage leaves around a flavorful meat and rice filling, then baking them in a luscious tomato sauce. This Easy Cabbage Rolls Recipe proves that classic dishes can be simple to make and utterly delicious. I hope you give it a try soon—it’s perfect for cozy nights and sharing warm memories around the dinner table.