Roll With It: A High-Protein Twist on Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
- eileencrawford
- Dec 12, 2025
- 3 min read
Updated: Dec 29, 2025
Easy Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe for a Healthy Weeknight MealÂ
Looking for a cozy, comforting meal that’s still healthy and high in protein? This stuffed cabbage rolls recipe delivers all the flavor of the classic dish but with a lighter, low-carb twist. Tender cabbage leaves wrapped around seasoned lean ground beef and baked in a simple tomato sauce create a hearty, satisfying meal that works perfectly for weeknight dinners or meal prep.Â
With simple ingredients, minimal steps, and plenty of protein, this recipe proves that comfort food can be both nourishing and goal-friendly.Â
Here’s Why This Stuffed Cabbage Roll Recipe Deserves a Spot in your RotationÂ
Comfort food, without the compromise.
Tender cabbage wrapped around savory, seasoned lean ground beef simmered in a light tomato sauce — it delivers big comfort with none of the guilt.Â
High-protein goodness.
With 45 grams of protein per serving, this stuffed cabbage roll recipe keeps you satisfied and on track with your goals.Â
Simple ingredients, big flavor.
Everything in this low-carb stuffed cabbage roll recipe is minimal and easy to find. No complicated steps. No fuss.Â
Roll, bake, enjoy.
A handful of basic ingredients transforms into a dish that feels way more impressive than the effort it takes. Perfect for busy nights, cozy weekends or meal prep.Â

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Nutrition Facts
You can dig into these warm, delicious rolls knowing they support your goals — whether you’re focused on weight loss, healthy living or building consistent habits.Â
Per Serving (2 rolls):Â
370 caloriesÂ
45g proteinÂ
11g carbohydrateÂ
10g fatÂ
This balance makes it a nutrient-dense, protein-packed meal with plenty of fresh veggies — all wrapped into a warm, satisfying dish. It counts toward your Lean & Green meal on the Optimal Weight 5 & 1 Plan® or the Optimal Weight 4 & 2 ACTIVE Plan®.
Ingredients You’ll NeedÂ
Here’s everything required to bring these cozy cabbage rolls to life:
IngredientsÂ
6 whole cabbage leavesÂ
1 cup diced tomatoes, dividedÂ
1 clove garlicÂ
½ cup waterÂ
2 tsp olive oilÂ
½ cup finely chopped scallionsÂ
½ tsp saltÂ
½ tsp ground black pepper
1 lb. 95–97% lean ground beef
How Do You Make Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Soften the cabbage leaves.  Boil water in a large saucepan, add the cabbage leaves and let them soften for 3 to 4 minutes, then drain.Â
Make the tomato sauce.  Blend half the diced tomatoes with the garlic and water until smooth; set aside.Â
Cook the filling.  Heat oil over medium heat. Sauté scallions with salt and pepper for 3 minutes. Add ground beef and the remaining tomatoes, breaking the meat into crumbles as it cooks.Â
Roll your cabbage wraps.  Spoon about 2 tablespoons of beef filling onto each leaf, roll tightly and tuck in the sides to secure the filling.Â
Bake to perfection.  Place the rolls in a baking dish, pour the blended tomato sauce on top and bake at 350°F for 15 minutes.Â
Warm, cozy and ready to serve.Â
Serving Suggestions & VariationsÂ
Make it ahead.
This recipe reheats beautifully. Make it today, enjoy the second serving later — or freeze it for a quick meal when you need it.Â
Save some time.
Swap in canned tomatoes for quicker prep without sacrificing flavor.Â
Turn it into a full family meal.
Double the recipe and serve it family-style so everyone can enjoy it together at the table.Â
Find it in the OPTAVIAÂ app.
This recipe — along with more than 290 other Lean & Green meals — is available in the OPTAVIA app. Adjust servings, save your favorites and explore fresh ideas anytime you need inspiration.Â
This OPTAVIA Stuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe proves comfort food can absolutely fit into your goals. It's warm, hearty and perfectly balanced — the kind of dish that makes you feel good from the inside out.Â
So grab your baking dish, roll up those cozy cabbage wraps and enjoy every satisfying bite.Â
And don’t forget to share your version with us — tag @OPTAVIA so we can see your creation!Â
👉 For 290+ more Lean & Green recipes, download the OPTAVIA app.
