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.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Instructions
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavors.
- 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.
- 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
