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Polish Golumpki Beef and Cabbage Casserole with Tomato Sauce

Polish Golumpki Beef and Cabbage Casserole with Tomato Sauce
90min Total Time
8 people Servings
Medium Difficulty
Moderate Cost
400 kcal Calories

Unveil the heartwarming flavors of Polish comfort food with this delightful Golumpki casserole, where tender cabbage meets flavorful beef!


Ingredients

8
  • 1 large head of cabbage
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

2

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Remove the core from the cabbage and gently submerge the head into the boiling water. Blanch for 5-7 minutes until the leaves are soft. Remove and cool.

3

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.

4

In a bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, sautéed onions, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

5

Carefully peel off cabbage leaves. Place about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture in the center of each leaf, fold the sides over, and roll tightly. Repeat until all filling is used.

6

In a baking dish, spread a layer of tomato sauce, then place the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down. Pour the remaining tomato sauce and diced tomatoes over the top.

7

Cover with foil and bake for 50-60 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the meat is cooked through.

8

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Kitchen Tools

  • Large pot
  • Skillet
  • Baking dish
  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife and cutting board

Chef's Tips

You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
If you have leftover filling, turn it into meatballs and bake them alongside the casserole.

Troubleshooting

If the rolls fall apart, make sure to roll tightly and seal the edges well.
If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water.

Recipe Variations

Add mushrooms or bell peppers to the beef mixture for extra flavor.
Top with cheese for a cheesy version.

Healthy Alternatives

Use brown rice instead of white for added fiber.
Try cauliflower rice to reduce carbs.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread.
Pair with a light salad.

Nutrition Facts

400
Calories
24g
Protein
30g
Carbs
20g
Fat
4g
Fiber
5g
Sugar
600mg
Sodium
75mg
Cholesterol

Dietary Info

Gluten-free
Lactose-free

Garnish Ideas

Chopped fresh parsley or dill.
Sour cream on the side.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
This dish freezes well; just make sure it's cooled before freezing.

Leftover Ideas

Make a Golumpki soup by adding broth and extra veggies.
Use as a filling for a savory casserole with layers of cheese.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the cabbage can make it too mushy.
Not sealing the rolls properly can cause the filling to leak out during baking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, ground turkey or chicken can also work well.

How do I know when the Golumpki is done?

The casserole is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the meat is no longer pink.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble it the night before, cover tightly, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake.

Can I use frozen cabbage?

Fresh cabbage is preferred, but frozen can be used if it’s previously blanched.

What sides go well with Golumpki?

Mashed potatoes or a simple green salad complement this dish nicely.

Reviews

Emily
Mar 26, 2026
This casserole brought back my grandmother's recipes. So comforting!
Mike
Mar 30, 2026
Wasn't sure about the cabbage but it turned out delicious!
Sarah
Mar 25, 2026
Finally a recipe that tastes like home!
John
Mar 29, 2026
It was good, but I think it could use a bit more seasoning.
Julia
Mar 16, 2026
Loved this! Perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Anna
Mar 19, 2026
So easy to make and full of flavor!
Tom
Mar 25, 2026
A great recipe for chilly evenings. Will make again!
Kate
Mar 13, 2026
This was okay, but I prefer a spicier version.
Alex
Mar 21, 2026
Best Golumpki I've ever made! Thank you for sharing!
Nina
Mar 11, 2026
A new family favorite! Will definitely repeat.
Chris
Mar 24, 2026
This recipe is spot on! Tastes just like my mom used to make.
Lily
Mar 17, 2026
Easy to follow and absolutely delicious.
Mark
Mar 19, 2026
This dish was a hit at our potluck!
Sophie
Mar 9, 2026
It was good but could use more veggies.
Ben
Mar 8, 2026
A solid recipe, would recommend.
Ella
Mar 30, 2026
I love how comforting and hearty this dish is!
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