Directions 

-
Prepare the Rice:
Cook rice per package instructions and set it aside. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). -
Make the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine ground beef with Worcestershire sauce, egg, cooked rice, onion, parsley, garlic, salt, pepper, dill, onion powder, and red chili flakes (if using). Mix until fully combined. -
Blanch the Cabbage:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the cabbage and boil for 8 to 10 minutes, turning it halfway through. Carefully remove and save some of the water for the sauce. -
Peel and Prepare the Leaves:
Once cool enough to handle, carefully remove the cabbage leaves. Cut out the core from each leaf. Continue boiling the cabbage as needed to soften more leaves. -
Assemble the Rolls:
Place a few cabbage leaves on the bottom of a deep 9″x13″ baking dish. For each cabbage leaf, place about ¼ cup of the ground beef mixture in the center. Roll up the leaf by folding in the sides and then rolling it up, placing the seam side down in the dish. -
Prepare the Sauce:
Mix the remaining tomato sauce with ½ cup of the cabbage water. Pour over the rolls. -
Bake:
Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour, or until the cabbage rolls are tender and the filling is cooked through. Garnish with fresh dill if desired.
Variations 
-
Different Meats:
Use ground turkey, chicken, or pork for a lighter version. -
Grain Alternatives:
Swap long-grain rice for quinoa, barley, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version. -
Vegetarian Option:
Use lentils, mushrooms, and chopped vegetables as a filling instead of meat. -
Spice it Up:
Add cumin, paprika, or smoked paprika for a unique flavor profile. -
Cheese Filling:
Mix in shredded mozzarella or feta for added creaminess. -
Sauce Variations:
Try mixing cream of mushroom soup or spicy salsa instead of tomato sauce. -
Herb Variations:
Experiment with thyme, basil, or oregano for different flavor notes.
Tips for Making Cabbage Rolls 
-
Blanch the Cabbage:
Blanch cabbage leaves to make them more pliable and easier to roll. -
Use a Flavorful Filling:
Enhance the filling with sautéed onions, garlic, and herbs. -
Don’t Overfill:
Be cautious not to overfill the cabbage leaves, as it can make them difficult to roll and may cause them to burst during cooking. -
Layering:
Place a layer of sauce at the bottom of the baking dish to prevent sticking and keep everything moist. -
Cook Slowly:
Slow cook the cabbage rolls for the best flavor. Low and slow heat will let the flavors meld together beautifully. -
Rest Before Serving:
Let the cabbage rolls rest for 10-15 minutes after cooking for easier serving.
How to Store Cabbage Rolls 
-
Cool Down:
Allow the cabbage rolls to cool to room temperature before storing them to prevent sogginess. -
Airtight Containers:
Store in airtight containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. -
Refrigeration:
Cabbage rolls can be refrigerated for 3-5 days. -
Freezing:
For longer storage, freeze the cabbage rolls by placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. They can last up to 3 months. -
Reheating:
Reheat in the microwave, oven, or stovetop. If frozen, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion 
Cabbage rolls are a comforting and filling dish that brings together savory flavors in every bite. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, they’re a perfect meal for family dinners or meal prep. Store them for later enjoyment and savor the delightful blend of tender cabbage and flavorful filling!
Enjoy your cabbage rolls!