How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?

Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.

Can I adjust the seasoning?

Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.

Air Fryer Beef and Vegetable Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Name: Air Fryer Beef and Vegetable Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients: 1 large head green cabbage; 1 lb (450g) lean ground beef; 1/2 cup cooked white rice; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 1 medium carrot, grated; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 cup tomato sauce, divided; 1/2 cup beef broth; 1 tbsp olive oil; Non-stick cooking spray

By AirFryFeast Editorial TeamPublished Apr 14, 2026 | Updated Jun 16, 2026

Delight in this Eastern European comfort food made effortlessly in the air fryer! Tender cabbage leaves stuffed with savory ground beef, rice, and fresh vegetables create a wholesome dish perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or meals. Enjoy crispy edges and juicy filling with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.

Start cooking

Air fryerEastern EuropeanEasyAir Fryer Friendly

Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time20 mins

Total Time40 mins

Servings6

Temperature360°F / 180°C

Ingredients

Servings6

1 large head green cabbage
1 lb (450g) lean ground beef
1/2 cup cooked white rice
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 medium carrot, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 large egg, beaten
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 cup tomato sauce, divided
1/2 cup beef broth
1 tbsp olive oil
Non-stick cooking spray

Instructions

Core the cabbage and carefully separate 12 large outer leaves. Blanch leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until pliable, then drain and set aside to cool.
In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, onion, carrot, garlic, parsley, egg, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix until fully incorporated.
Place one cabbage leaf on a flat surface and trim the thick base vein. Spoon 2-3 tablespoons of the beef mixture onto the center.
Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly from the base to enclose the mixture. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling to make 12 rolls.
Preheat air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray or brush basket with olive oil.
Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down in a single layer without stacking.
Mix half the tomato sauce with beef broth and olive oil. Spoon evenly over rolls to keep moist while cooking.
Air fry at 360°F (180°C) for 18-20 minutes, flipping once halfway. Brush tops with remaining tomato sauce in last 3 minutes for extra flavor and glaze.
Let the rolls rest 3-5 minutes after cooking to settle flavors.
Serve hot with extra tomato sauce or preferred sides. Store airtight in fridge up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months for meal prep convenience.

Recipe guidance

Crispiness Control

Pat the head green cabbage dry, avoid crowding, and use only a light coat of oil or sauce before cooking. Add wet sauces near the end when you want the outside to stay crisp.

Storage

Store leftover Air Fryer Beef and Vegetable Stuffed Cabbage Rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cool the food before sealing so excess steam does not soften the texture.

FAQ

Can I make Air Fryer Beef and Vegetable Stuffed Cabbage Rolls ahead of time?: You can prep the ingredients and seasoning ahead, but air fry close to serving for the best texture.
How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?: Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.
Can I adjust the seasoning?: Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.