My Polish aunt taught me this and it’s been a household fave since!
Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
These hearty cabbage rolls are a beloved staple in Polish kitchens, bringing together savory meat, tender rice, and a tangy tomato sauce. Wrapped in soft cabbage leaves and baked to perfection, this dish is the ultimate cozy meal—rich with heritage and flavor.
🛒 Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large head of cabbage | 1 |
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Ground pork | ½ pound |
| Cooked rice | 1 cup |
| Large onion, finely chopped | 1 |
| Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Egg | 1 |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Tomato sauce, divided | 2 cups |
| Beef broth | 1 cup |
| Sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh dill, chopped (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Soften the Cabbage
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully submerge the whole cabbage and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the outer leaves are soft and pliable. Remove from the pot and let cool slightly. Gently peel off the softened leaves for rolling.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, pork, cooked rice, chopped onion, garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Stir until fully combined and evenly mixed.
Step 3: Fill and Roll
Place roughly ¼ cup of filling in the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold in the sides, then roll from the bottom up to enclose the filling. Repeat until all the mixture is used.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour a thin layer of tomato sauce into the bottom of a large baking dish. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down. In a separate bowl, stir together the remaining tomato sauce, beef broth, sugar, and lemon juice. Pour this sauce evenly over the rolls. Cover tightly with foil and bake for 1½ to 2 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is fully cooked.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Before serving, sprinkle with fresh chopped dill for a burst of brightness (if using). These rolls are delicious on their own or with a side of crusty bread.
