Tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory blend of ground meat, rice, and herbs, then baked over a colorful bed of roasted vegetables in a rich tomato-wine sauce. This comforting, one-pan meal is hearty, wholesome, and packed with flavor—perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another stuffed cabbage dish—it’s comfort food elevated. With juicy meat filling, fluffy rice, and soft cabbage all nestled on a vibrant layer of caramelized carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers, every bite feels nourishing and deeply satisfying. The tangy-sweet tomato sauce infuses everything with warmth, while smoked paprika and thyme add depth that lingers.

Perfect for:

Cozy weeknight dinners
Holiday meals and potlucks
Freezer-friendly batch cooking
Meal-prepping healthy lunches

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls

1 large head green cabbage or Savoy cabbage (~10–12 leaves)
1 lb (450g) ground beef, turkey, pork, or plant-based crumbles
1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or wild)
1 small onion, finely diced (~½ cup)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg (optional, helps bind filling)
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Tomato Sauce

1 (15 oz / 425g) can crushed tomatoes
½ cup (120ml) tomato sauce or passata
¼ cup (60ml) chicken or vegetable broth
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (or soy sauce for vegetarian option)
1 tsp sugar (optional, balances acidity)
½ tsp garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

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