If you’re craving a comforting and hearty meal that’s as fun to make as it is delicious to eat, this Easy Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe (Dutch Oven) Recipe is exactly what you need. Tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory, flavorful mixture of ground beef, rice, and herbs, all simmered gently in a rich marinara sauce, create a dish that’s both deeply satisfying and unexpectedly easy. Using a Dutch oven makes the cooking process straightforward and hands-off, perfect for cozy dinners with family or friends. Let me walk you through how to bring this classic to your table with ease and joy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white pot filled with nine cabbage rolls wrapped tightly in light green cabbage leaves, showing faint veins and a slightly soft texture. The cabbage rolls are arranged closely, some stacked on top of others, and each roll reveals a darker filling peeking through the thin leaves. The pot sits on a white marbled surface, highlighting the fresh and simple look of the dish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe shines because it keeps things simple yet balanced, relying on fresh ingredients that enhance every bite. Each component, from the fragrant jasmine rice to the robust tomato paste and the fresh herbs, plays a key role in flavor, texture, and color.

2 heads Cabbage (green): Fresh, firm heads are essential for pliable leaves that wrap beautifully without tearing.
¾ cup Jasmine Rice (dry): Provides a fluffy, subtly aromatic base to the filling that soaks up all the wonderful juices.
½ Onion (diced): Adds a sweet and savory depth to the meat mixture when finely chopped.
¼ cup Flat Leaf Parsley (chopped): Brightens the filling with a fresh, grassy note that balances richness.
2 cloves Garlic (grated): Brings a gentle warmth and pungency that lifts the overall flavor profile.
1 lb Grass-Fed Ground Beef: The hearty protein center, lean and flavorful, anchoring the dish.
2 tablespoons Tomato Paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that boosts umami and gives depth to the filling.
1 teaspoon Sea Salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the recipe without overpowering.
½ teaspoon Black Pepper: A subtle kick that awakens the taste buds.
28 oz Marinara Sauce: Rich and tangy, it infuses the rolls with moisture and a vibrant tomato essence.
Fresh Dill (to taste): Adds a hint of delicate herbal brightness as a garnish.
Greek Yogurt (to taste): Creamy and tangy topping that contrasts perfectly with the warm, savory rolls.

How to Make Easy Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe (Dutch Oven) Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

Start by boiling the cabbage heads in salted water until the outer leaves soften and turn a brilliant green. This 10 to 15 minute soak loosens the leaves from the core, making them pliable and easy to peel off without tearing. Using two pots simultaneously speeds this step up, but one pot works fine. Once cooked, drain and cool the cabbage until you can handle it comfortably, then gently peel off the largest leaves for stuffing. Don’t forget to trim the thick tough ribs on the base of the leaves if needed – it makes rolling a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

While the cabbage cooks, combine the rinsed jasmine rice with the diced onion, freshly chopped parsley, grated garlic, ground beef, tomato paste, sea salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly – this ensures the flavors meld beautifully and the rice integrates evenly with the meat, creating a cohesive, tasty filling.

Step 3: Roll the Cabbage Leaves

Lay each cabbage leaf flat and spoon 1 to 2 tablespoons of the beef and rice mixture onto the leafy end. Start rolling tightly toward the stem end, folding the sides in as you go to encase the filling completely. Arrange the rolls seam side down in your Dutch oven to keep them intact during cooking. Remember, smaller rolls hold up better and cook more evenly, so resist the urge to overstuff.

Step 4: Prepare the Pot and Bake

Line the bottom of your Dutch oven with two large cabbage leaves to prevent sticking. Place all your rolled-up cabbage nestled side by side, then pour the marinara sauce evenly over them for an even coating that will bubble up and keep everything moist. Cover with the lid and bake at 350°F for 1 to 1 hour and 15 minutes. This gentle oven cooking softens the cabbage perfectly and allows all the flavors to meld into a comforting symphony.

How to Serve Easy Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe (Dutch Oven) Recipe

The image shows a white bowl filled with about ten rolled cabbage leaves packed closely together, each covered with a chunky red tomato sauce. The cabbage rolls have a pale yellow-green color with soft, slightly wrinkled textures underneath the sauce. The tomato sauce is thick and spread unevenly over each roll, with visible small bits that add texture. Small green herb leaves are sprinkled on top of the sauce for garnish. The bowl is placed on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Finishing your rolls with fresh dill instantly brightens the presentation and adds a subtle herbal accent that pairs wonderfully with the rich, tomatoey sauce. Serving a dollop of Greek yogurt on the side or on top adds a cooling, creamy tang that cuts through the richness and adds a lovely texture contrast to the dish.

Side Dishes

A simple side of crusty bread is perfect for sopping up remaining sauce, while a crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can refresh the palate and add crunch. Steamed or roasted root vegetables also make an excellent accompaniment, rounding out this hearty meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a homey family-style dinner, serve the cabbage rolls straight from the Dutch oven at the table, inviting everyone to help themselves. Alternatively, plate individual portions topped with the dill and Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for a restaurant-quality presentation that feels lovingly personal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover cabbage rolls store wonderfully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors become even more developed after resting overnight, making them perfect for next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

This Easy Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe (Dutch Oven) Recipe freezes beautifully. Arrange rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. They keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 325°F covered with foil for about 20 minutes or until heated through, or microwave covered for 2 to 3 minutes. Add a little extra marinara or a splash of water if the rolls seem dry during reheating to maintain moisture and tenderness.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of rice?

Absolutely! While jasmine rice adds a lovely aroma and fluffy texture, you can swap it for long-grain white rice, basmati, or even brown rice. Just keep in mind that cooking times for the rice may vary slightly, and adjust accordingly.

Do I have to use ground beef?

Not at all. Ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives work well in this recipe. Just ensure the texture is similar for easy rolling and a satisfying bite.

Is it necessary to use a Dutch oven?

While a Dutch oven is ideal because it distributes heat evenly and retains moisture, you can use any oven-safe casserole or baking dish. Just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent drying out during baking.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time before baking?

Yes! You can assemble the cabbage rolls and refrigerate them in the baking dish covered for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it a perfect make-ahead dinner option when hosting guests or busy weeknights.

What can I do with the smaller inner cabbage leaves?

The smaller, tighter inner leaves are perfect for other recipes like salads, slaws, or quick sautés. You can also save them to line the bottom of the pot for extra flavor and protection from sticking.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe (Dutch Oven) Recipe is one of those timeless dishes that delivers both comfort and impressiveness without fuss. It embodies home cooking at its finest with a cozy, hands-on preparation followed by slow, loving baking. I can’t wait for you to try it in your own kitchen and enjoy the delightful flavors and textures as much as I do. You’ll soon wonder how you ever lived without it!

Easy Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe (Dutch Oven) Recipe