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Traditional Polish Golabki Recipe - Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Polish Cabbage Rolls (Gołąbki)

Gołąbki are traditional Polish cabbage rolls filled with ground meat and rice, wrapped in tender cabbage leaves, and baked in a tangy tomato sauce. This hearty dish celebrates family, heritage, and the warmth of homemade comfort food.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: polish
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients:
  • 1 large head of green cabbage
  • 1 lb ground beef turkey, or pork (or a mix)
  • ½ cup cooked rice
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups tomato sauce
Spices and Seasonings:
  • 1 tbsp cooking oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Optional for Serving:
  • Creamy mashed potatoes

Method
 

Prepare the Cabbage Leaves:
  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
  2. Place the whole cabbage head in the water. Boil for 8–10 minutes until leaves are tender.
  3. Gently peel off the leaves one by one and let them cool.
Make the Filling:
  1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until soft and golden.
  3. In a large bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, sautéed onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Assemble the Rolls:
  1. Place 2–3 tbsp of the meat filling in the center of each cabbage leaf.
  2. Roll tightly, tucking in the sides as you go, to seal the filling inside.
  3. Place the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish.
Bake the Gołąbki:
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Pour tomato sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls.
  3. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30–35 minutes, until the rolls are soft and flavorful.
Serve:
  1. Let the rolls rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with creamy mashed potatoes for extra comfort.

Notes

  • Meat Options: Mix beef and pork for richer flavor, or use turkey for a leaner alternative.
  • Tomato Sauce: You can use canned sauce for convenience or homemade sauce for a more personalized taste.
  • Storage: Gołąbki freeze well! Cool completely before freezing and reheat in the oven with a splash of sauce.