Carefully remove 12-14 whole cabbage leaves from the head.
Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until soft and pliable. Remove and set aside to cool.
(Tip: You can also freeze the cabbage overnight and let it thaw the next day—this softens the leaves without boiling!)
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, uncooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, paprika, salt, pepper, and thyme.
Mix everything until well combined but don’t overwork the meat.
Step 3: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls
Lay a cabbage leaf flat and place 2 tablespoons of filling in the center.
Fold in the sides and roll it up like a burrito, ensuring the filling is completely enclosed.
Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, beef broth, salt, pepper, oregano, and bay leaf.
Step 5: Cook in the Instant Dutch Oven
Preheat the Instant Dutch Oven to sear/sauté mode and lightly coat the bottom with oil.
Place some of the tomato sauce at the bottom of the Dutch oven.
Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a single layer.
Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are fully covered.
Cover with the lid and set the Instant Dutch Oven to slow cook mode (low heat) for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
(Tip: If using the stovetop, simmer the cabbage rolls in a regular Dutch oven for about 90 minutes on low heat.)
Serving and Storage Tips
✔️ Serve Warm: Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy with mashed potatoes, buttered noodles, or crusty bread. ✔️ Make-Ahead Friendly: These taste even better the next day as the flavors meld! Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
Making stuffed cabbage rolls in the Instant Dutch Oven takes a classic, time-intensive dish and makes it more accessible for busy home cooks. The slow-cooking process ensures that each bite is tender, flavorful, and deeply satisfying. Whether you grew up eating stuffed cabbage or are trying it for the first time, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your home!
Have you tried making stuffed cabbage rolls before? Let us know your favorite version in the comments!
