Tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling of ground meat, rice, and aromatic seasonings, then simmered in a rich tomato sauce—gołąbki is a beloved Polish comfort dish. These hearty cabbage rolls are packed with flavor and perfect for a cozy, home-cooked meal. Whether simmered on the stovetop or baked in the oven, they are a true taste of tradition and family gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Traditional Polish Comfort Food – A classic dish passed down through generations.
- Rich and Savory Filling – A delicious blend of meat, rice, and spices wrapped in tender cabbage leaves.
- Slow-Cooked Perfection – Simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce for ultimate tenderness.
- Great for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for leftovers.
- Customizable – Can be made with different meats, grains, or vegetarian options.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Cabbage Rolls:
- Large head of cabbage
- Ground pork or beef (or a mix)
- Uncooked white rice
- Small onion (finely chopped)
- Garlic (minced)
- Egg
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika
For the Tomato Sauce:
- Crushed tomatoes
- Beef broth
- Tomato paste
- Sugar
- Dried oregano
- Dried basil
- Salt and pepper
Directions
Prepare the Cabbage:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
- Core the cabbage and carefully place it in the boiling water.
- Remove leaves one by one as they soften (about 2–3 minutes per leaf). Set aside.
Prepare the Filling:
- In a bowl, mix ground meat, rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika until well combined.
Assemble the Rolls:
- Place a small amount of filling in the center of each cabbage leaf.
- Fold the sides in and roll tightly.
Prepare the Sauce:
- In a saucepan, mix crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, sugar, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 5 minutes.
Cook the Rolls:
- Place cabbage rolls seam-side down in a large pot or baking dish.
- Pour the tomato sauce over the rolls.
Simmer or Bake:
- Stovetop: Cover and simmer over low heat for 1.5 hours.
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1.5 hours.
Serve:
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 320 kcal per serving
Variations
- Vegetarian Gołąbki – Replace meat with cooked lentils or mushrooms for a meatless option.
- Sauerkraut Version – Layer the rolls with sauerkraut for a tangy twist.
- Hungarian-Style – Add diced bell peppers and a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
- Slow Cooker Method – Place rolls in a slow cooker, pour sauce over, and cook on low for 6–7 hours.
- Stuffed Cabbage Soup – Chop cabbage and cook all ingredients in a pot as a soup instead of rolling.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze fully cooked cabbage rolls in a sealed container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave individual portions until heated through.
FAQs
What does “Gołąbki” mean?
Gołąbki (pronounced goh-WOHMP-kee) means “little pigeons” in Polish, referring to the shape of the rolled cabbage leaves.
Can I use other meats?
Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or a mix of pork and beef.
Do I need to cook the rice before stuffing?
No, the rice cooks inside the cabbage rolls as they simmer.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the rolls and refrigerate them overnight before cooking.
Why do my cabbage leaves tear?
If the leaves tear, they may be too firm—boil the cabbage a little longer to soften them.
What side dishes pair well with gołąbki?
Serve with mashed potatoes, rye bread, or a side of sour cream.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Let the sauce simmer longer or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).
Can I add cheese to the filling?
Cheese isn’t traditional, but a little Parmesan or feta can add extra flavor.
What if I don’t have a large pot for boiling cabbage?
You can freeze the cabbage overnight and let it thaw—the leaves will soften naturally.
Is this dish traditionally served for a holiday?
Gołąbki is commonly enjoyed at family gatherings, Christmas, and special occasions.
Conclusion
Stuffed Polish Cabbage Rolls (Gołąbki) are a comforting and flavorful dish that brings tradition to the table. With tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory meat and rice filling, slow-cooked in a rich tomato sauce, this dish is a satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether made for a family dinner or holiday gathering, these cabbage rolls are sure to be a favorite. Try this recipe and experience a taste of Poland’s rich culinary heritage!
