Stuffed Cabbage (Golabki – Easy Polish Cabbage Rolls)

This stuffed cabbage (golabki) recipe is a simplified, authentic-inspired version of traditional Polish cabbage rolls made easy for home cooks. Tender cabbage leaves are filled with a savory mixture of ground meat and rice, then simmered in a rich tomato sauce for a cozy, comforting meal that’s full of classic Eastern European flavor.

If you enjoy hearty comfort food like Potato & Cheese Pierogi or cozy, satisfying dinners like Hungarian Goulash, these cabbage rolls fit perfectly into your rotation. For more cozy recipes, explore the Eastern European Comfort Food Recipes.

Why You’ll Love This

• Easy stuffed cabbage recipe with simple, approachable steps

• Authentic flavor with a streamlined cooking method

• Cozy, comforting meal perfect for family dinners

• Freezer-friendly and great for meal prep

• Tender cabbage with a rich, savory filling

Recipe Card

• Prep Time: 25 minutes

• Cook Time: 1 hour

• Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

• Servings: 4–6

Nutrition Information

(Estimated per serving)

• Calories: 360 kcal

• Protein: 22 g

• Carbohydrates: 28 g

• Fat: 16 g

• Fiber: 4 g

• Sugar: 6 g

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 large green cabbage

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or beef/pork mix)

• 1 cup (185 g) cooked white rice

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 1 (28 oz / 800 g) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon sugar

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the cabbage core and place the whole cabbage in the water.

2. Boil for 3–5 minutes, loosening leaves as they soften. Remove leaves and set aside.

3. In a bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix gently.

4. Place a portion of filling onto each cabbage leaf. Fold sides inward and roll tightly.

5. In a large pot or Dutch oven, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom.

6. Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down in the pot.

7. In a bowl, mix crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour over the rolls.

8. Cover and simmer on low heat for 50–60 minutes until cabbage is tender and filling is cooked through.

9. Serve warm with extra sauce spooned over the top.

What to Serve With

• Serve with Meat Pierogi for a traditional-style meal

• Pair with a hearty dish like Polish Dill Pickle Soup for a comforting spread

• Add a simple side, Honey Butter Skillet Corn, or Sourdough Bread for balance

Tips & Variations

• Use savoy cabbage for softer, more flexible leaves

• Swap rice for cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option

• Add herbs like dill or parsley for extra flavor

• Use ground turkey for a lighter version

• Make vegetarian with lentils or mushrooms

Make-Ahead & Storage

• Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days

• Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave

• Freeze cooked cabbage rolls for up to 2 months

• Flavors deepen over time, making leftovers even better

FAQ

What does golabki mean?

Golabki is a traditional Polish dish of cabbage leaves stuffed with meat and rice.

Can I make stuffed cabbage ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep and reheats very well.

Can I freeze stuffed cabbage?

Yes, both cooked and uncooked cabbage rolls can be frozen.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, use lentils or mushrooms instead of meat.

Final Thoughts

These easy stuffed cabbage rolls are a perfect balance of traditional comfort and modern simplicity. With tender cabbage, savory filling, and rich tomato sauce, they bring classic Eastern European flavor into an approachable recipe you can make anytime.

If you’re building a cozy comfort food rotation, explore our Skillet & One-Pan Dinner Recipes.