Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

If you’re craving a hearty, comforting meal that feels like a warm hug from Nonna’s kitchen, this Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe will become your new go-to. Tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory blend of seasoned ground beef, rice, and Parmesan, all simmered lovingly in a rich tomato sauce, are the perfect way to bring a rustic Italian classic to your dinner table. This dish balances flavors beautifully while delivering satisfying textures, and the best part is how approachable it is to make and share with your loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe starts with simple, fresh ingredients that each play a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the freshness of the cabbage to the aromatic herbs and perfectly cooked beef filling, every component works together in harmony.

• 1 large green cabbage: Provides tender, pliable leaves perfect for wrapping and gently cooking to melt in your mouth.
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef: The hearty protein base that adds richness and depth to the filling.
• 1/2 cup cooked rice: Helps bind the filling and balances the texture with a subtle chewiness.
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a lovely umami punch and a nutty undertone that enhances the meatiness.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped: Brings sweetness and subtle sharpness, essential for a well-rounded filling.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses every bite with depth and a bit of zing.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Classic Italian herb that adds an aromatic, earthy flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Complements the oregano with its sweet, slightly peppery notes.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Seasonings to enhance and balance flavors throughout.
• 1 large egg: Acts as a binder, holding the filling together during cooking.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing and to bring a rich, fruity undertone to the sauce.
• 1 small onion, chopped: Added fresh to the sauce for sweetness and depth.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds savory warmth to the sauce base.
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: The heart of the sauce, delivering vibrant color and tangy sweetness.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano and 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Herbs to keep the sauce aromatic and authentically Italian.
• 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes, making the sauce smoother and more harmonious.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Final seasoning touches to tailor the sauce perfectly to your liking.

How to Make Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

Start by bringing a large pot of water to boil. Gently peel away the outer leaves of the cabbage, choosing the largest ones as they make for the best rolls. Blanch these leaves in the boiling water for about 2 to 3 minutes until they become tender and flexible without turning mushy. Drain and set aside so they are ready to wrap your delicious filling.

Step 2: Make the Flavorful Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, Parmesan, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and the egg. Mix everything thoroughly by hand or with a spoon until all ingredients are evenly distributed. This blend is the savory heart of your Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe, full of mouthwatering layers of richness and seasoning.

Step 3: Assemble the Rolls

Lay each cabbage leaf flat and spoon roughly two tablespoons of the beef mixture onto the center. Fold in the sides neatly and then roll it up tightly like a little gift. If you find any rolls aren’t staying closed on their own, securing them with a toothpick will help keep that lovely filling tucked safely inside while it cooks.

Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet or saucepan. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing them for a couple of minutes until they’re fragrant and translucent. Pour in the crushed tomatoes along with oregano, basil, sugar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let this simmer gently, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes as the flavors deepen and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Cook the Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Carefully arrange each cabbage roll seam-side down in your skillet with the sauce. Spoon additional sauce over the top to keep them moist and flavorful. Cover the pan and let everything simmer over low heat for 30 to 40 minutes. This slow cooking allows the beef to cook through while absorbing those wonderful tomato and herb flavors, resulting in irresistibly tender cabbage rolls.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the toothpicks if used, and plate the rolls with a generous spoonful of sauce on top. This is the moment when your kitchen fills with the unmistakable scent of comforting Italian cooking, and every bite delivers a delicious blend of savory, tangy, and tender textures.

How to Serve Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation and taste, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the rolls just before serving. You can also add a few fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and aromatic freshness that complements the tomato sauce perfectly. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds a lovely sheen and richness.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple Italian sides such as a crisp green salad tossed with vinaigrette, creamy polenta, or even some crusty Italian bread to soak up every last drop of that luscious sauce. For a heartier meal, roasted vegetables like zucchini, peppers, or eggplant also make fantastic companions to these stuffed cabbage rolls.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming family-style meal, arrange the rolls in a rustic baking dish layered with fresh herbs and extra sauce, then bake them briefly to meld the flavors even more. Alternatively, serve individual rolls as elegant appetizers topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a basil leaf for a festive gathering or cozy dinner party.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe, you can refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to develop, making for even tastier meals the next day. Just be sure to keep the sauce and rolls together to prevent them from drying out.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully! Simply place the cooled rolls and sauce in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, perfect for those times when you want a homemade meal ready in a snap.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw frozen rolls overnight in the fridge and then gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat, covered, until heated through. Alternatively, reheat portions in the microwave, adding a splash of water or sauce to keep them moist and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?

Absolutely! While ground beef is traditional, you can substitute ground turkey, pork, or even a mix of meats to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Just adjust the seasoning as needed to complement the meat you choose.

Do I have to blanch the cabbage leaves first?

Yes, blanching softens the cabbage leaves, making them pliable and easier to roll without breaking. It also helps reduce bitterness and improves the texture in the finished dish.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Definitely! You can swap the ground beef with a mixture of cooked lentils, mushrooms, walnuts, or vegetarian meat substitutes. Adding extra herbs and cheese can enhance the flavor and texture for a satisfying meat-free version.

Can I prepare the rolls ahead of time before cooking?

Yes, you can assemble the rolls a day in advance and keep them covered in the refrigerator. Then simply cook them in the sauce right before serving. This makes entertaining easier while preserving fresh flavors.

What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?

If you don’t have Parmesan on hand, Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheeses work well as flavorful alternatives. For a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy note to the filling.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope this Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen. It’s a dish that delights with each bite through its comforting flavors and satisfying textures, bringing loved ones together around the table. Give it a try and watch how this humble recipe turns an ordinary dinner into something special and memorable.

Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

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• Author: admin
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Classic Italian stuffed cabbage rolls featuring tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and Parmesan cheese, simmered in a fragrant tomato sauce infused with herbs and garlic. This comforting dish is perfect for a home-cooked family meal, combining rich flavors and hearty ingredients in every bite.

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Ingredients

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For the Cabbage Rolls

• 1 large green cabbage
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1/2 cup cooked rice
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg

For the Sauce

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the outer cabbage leaves and blanch them in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix well until fully combined.
3. Assemble the Rolls: Place about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture onto each cabbage leaf. Roll up tightly, folding in the sides, and secure with toothpicks if needed.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavors.
6. Cook the Cabbage Rolls: Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the skillet. Spoon some sauce over them. Cover and let simmer over low heat for 30-40 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and the flavors meld together.
7. Serve & Enjoy: Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.

Notes

• Be careful not to overcook cabbage leaves during blanching; they should be pliable but not too soft, so they hold the filling well.
• Using cooked rice helps bind the filling and adds texture.
• Adjust seasoning in the sauce according to your taste preference.
• To avoid the rolls unrolling during cooking, secure with toothpicks or tie with kitchen twine if needed.
• For a richer flavor, you can brown the cabbage rolls in the skillet before adding the sauce.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian