Name: Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef and Pork in Tomato Broth Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 42 min
Total time: 2 h 12 min
Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients: 1 large head cabbage; 1 lb. ground beef extra lean; 1 lb. ground pork; 1 cup white rice, uncooked, rinsed & drained; 1 28oz can tomato sauce; 4 cups chicken broth, low sodium; 1 Tbsp olive oil; 2 large onions, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning; 2 tsp salt; 2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper, divided

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 24 reviews

If you’re craving something truly comforting and packed with flavor, you are going to adore this Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef and Pork in Tomato Broth Recipe. Imagine tender cabbage leaves lovingly wrapped around a hearty mix of ground beef, pork, and rice, all simmered in a rich, tangy tomato broth that seeps into every bite. This dish has that irresistible home-cooked quality that makes family gatherings and cozy dinners unforgettable. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying it for the first time, this recipe brings together vibrant textures and classic flavors to create a meal that’s both satisfying and soul-warming.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl on a white marbled surface holds six main layers arranged separately. The top layer is a heap of cooked, chopped onions in light golden brown with some herbs mixed in, covering about one-third of the bowl's space. To the right, there is a large portion of light pink ground meat with a soft texture. Below the meat is a smaller mound of salt with a pale pink color. To the left of the salt, a roughly equal pile of dark red ground meat sits. Above and left of this meat is a mound of white uncooked rice. Between the rice and the cooked onions is a small pile of ground black pepper, almost blending into the rice. The contents do not mix, showing individual textures and colors clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and aroma, making the final result truly special. Let’s break down the essentials that will make your cabbage rolls taste like they’ve been simmering lovingly for hours.

1 large head cabbage: Choose a firm, fresh cabbage; the leaves need to be pliable to wrap the filling perfectly.
1 Tbsp olive oil: Adds a gentle richness and helps soften the onions and garlic for the perfect base.
2 large onions, finely chopped: They bring a natural sweetness and moisture that enhances the meat filling.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a fragrant warmth that makes every bite deeply satisfying.
1 Tbsp Italian seasoning: This blend lifts the savory notes with a hint of herbaceous charm.
2 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors throughout the dish.
2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper, divided: Provides a subtle heat and fresh bite, perfectly balanced between filling and broth.
1 lb ground beef, extra lean: Adds hearty depth and juicy texture without being too fatty.
1 lb ground pork: Complements the beef with added richness and moistness in the filling.
1 cup white rice, uncooked, rinsed & drained: This gives the filling a tender, slightly chewy contrast that soaks up juices beautifully.
1 28oz can tomato sauce: The vibrant core of the broth that ties everything together with tang and sweetness.
4 cups low sodium chicken broth: Keeps the broth savory and light, letting the tomato and herbs shine gently.

How to Make Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef and Pork in Tomato Broth Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

Start by preheating your oven to 425ºF. While it’s warming, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Submerge the cabbage head for just two minutes—this softens the outer leaves enough to peel them away gently without tearing. Use a fork to lift and a knife to carefully remove the softened leaves, repeating until you have enough for wrapping your filling. This simple blanching step is crucial as it makes the leaves pliable and ready to embrace the savory mix inside.

Step 2: Make the Flavorful Filling

Heat a skillet over medium-high and add olive oil. Toss in chopped onions and garlic, cooking them until translucent and aromatic — this base infuses the filling with sweet, mellow notes. Then, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning for an herby lift. Transfer this fragrant mixture into a large bowl where the real fun begins: combine the cooked onion mix with ground beef, ground pork, uncooked rice, salt, and half of the ground black pepper. Knead gently with your hands to marry all components into one beautifully cohesive filling.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

Trim the thick vein from each cabbage leaf to make folding easier. Lay the leaf flat and spoon about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of filling in the center. Carefully tuck the sides over and roll tightly, ensuring the filling stays inside. Place each roll seam side down in a large Dutch oven or deep baking dish. Feel free to overlap smaller leaves as needed—it might take a few to snugly hold the filling. This tactile process is deeply satisfying and makes every roll feel special.

Step 4: Create the Tomato Broth and Bake

Mix the tomato sauce, chicken broth, and remaining black pepper in a bowl. Pour this vibrant mixture gently over the cabbage rolls, covering them completely. Cover the pot and bake for 90 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the rice and meats to tenderize fully. The extended slow cook bathes each roll in a fragrant tomato broth that’s bursting with warmth and comfort. Once done, let the rolls rest for 15 minutes so the juices settle and the flavors deepen before serving.

How to Serve Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef and Pork in Tomato Broth Recipe

A black bowl holds three large stuffed cabbage rolls covered in a thick, shiny red-orange tomato sauce. Each roll is topped with a dollop of white sour cream and a small sprig of green dill. The cabbage leaves are soft and wrinkled with a slightly browned edge. A black fork rests inside the bowl near the cabbage rolls. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a white cloth to the left and a small white bowl filled with chopped green herbs slightly visible in the top right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finishing touches can elevate the meal to something truly memorable. A dollop of sour cream adds creamy tanginess that cuts through the tomato richness beautifully. Fresh dill lent a bright, herbal kick that complements the savory meat and tender cabbage, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley can brighten the plate visually and taste-wise. These garnishes don’t just look nice—they lift each bite!

Side Dishes

Consider serving these cabbage rolls alongside buttery mashed potatoes or rustic crusty bread to soak up the luscious tomato broth. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast, balancing the meal perfectly. The hearty nature of the rolls means you can keep sides simple but thoughtful to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style feast, arrange the cabbage rolls like little boats in a deep dish, allowing the tomato broth to pool invitingly around them. You can also serve individual portions with a small ramekin of the broth for dipping. If you’re feeling festive, top the rolls with a sprinkle of grated parmesan or shredded sharp cheddar before the last 10 minutes of baking for a gently melted, savory crust that’s beyond delicious.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cabbage rolls are a blessing! Store them in an airtight container with some of the tomato broth to keep them moist. They’ll stay delicious in the fridge for up to 3 days, making for easy lunches or quick dinners that reheat beautifully.

Freezing

This recipe freezes exceptionally well. Place fully cooked cabbage rolls in a freezer-safe dish and cover tightly. They can be frozen for up to 3 months, so you can enjoy the comfort of this cabbage rolls with ground beef and pork in tomato broth recipe anytime you want with minimal effort.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm gently in the oven at 350ºF, covered with foil, for 20 to 30 minutes or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, just be sure to include some tomato broth to keep the rolls juicy and tender.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice in Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef and Pork in Tomato Broth Recipe?

Definitely! While white rice is traditional, you can substitute with brown rice or even quinoa for a nuttier texture. Just remember that these may require slight adjustments in cooking time and liquid since their absorbency varies.

Is it necessary to use both ground beef and pork?

Using a mix of beef and pork adds balance—the pork brings fat and moisture, while beef offers robust flavor. However, you can use just one type if preferred, but you might want to add a little extra fat or a splash of olive oil if you choose lean beef alone.

Can I make the tomato broth from scratch instead of canned sauce?

Absolutely! Fresh tomato puree or homemade tomato sauce will add incredible freshness. Just simmer fresh tomatoes with garlic, herbs, and a bit of salt until thickened, then use in place of the canned sauce. It’s a little more work but really worth it if you want a bright, homemade flavor.

What’s the best way to remove the cabbage leaves without tearing them?

Blanching the cabbage in boiling water just long enough to soften the outer leaves makes them pliable and easier to peel off intact. Use a fork to gently lift the cabbage from the water and a small knife to cut the leaves’ base if needed. Patience and gentle handling are key!

Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?

You can! To create a vegetarian version, substitute ground meats with a mix of finely chopped mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based meat alternatives. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure your tomato sauce is vegan-friendly. The preparation remains the same, and the filling options are deliciously flexible.

Final Thoughts

This Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef and Pork in Tomato Broth Recipe is the kind of dish that wraps you up in a warm culinary hug. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or saving leftovers for a nourishing meal later in the week. The combination of tender cabbage, seasoned meat, and savory tomato broth is timeless and utterly comforting. Give it a try—you just might find your new favorite way to make cabbage rolls.

Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef and Pork in Tomato Broth Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need