Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe: A Hearty and Flavorful Dish

Cabbage lovers, get ready for a classic Italian comfort dish that is rich, flavorful, and absolutely satisfying! These Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, Parmesan cheese, and garlic, all wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and simmered in a delicious tomato sauce. Whether you’re making a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a traditional recipe with a twist, this dish is sure to impress.

Introduction

There’s something incredibly comforting about stuffed cabbage rolls. This Italian version takes the traditional Eastern European dish and gives it a savory, cheesy twist, making it a delicious and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. Tender cabbage leaves are stuffed with a rich and flavorful beef filling, then slow-cooked in a hearty tomato sauce to bring out all the best flavors.

The best part? This recipe is budget-friendly, nutritious, and absolutely packed with flavor. You can make these cabbage rolls ahead of time, store them for later, and enjoy a hearty homemade meal whenever you’re in the mood for classic Italian comfort food. Let’s dive into this deliciously easy recipe and learn how to make perfect Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls step by step.

Ingredients

To make authentic Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Cabbage Rolls:

1 large green cabbage (about 12 leaves)
1 pound (450g) ground beef
1/2 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

For the Tomato Sauce:

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 small can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage and set them aside. Carefully cut out the core to help the leaves separate more easily.
Place the cabbage in the boiling water for 3-5 minutes until the leaves soften and become pliable. Remove them with tongs and set aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Mix everything together until well combined. The Parmesan cheese adds a rich umami flavor, while the garlic and oregano give it that classic Italian taste.

Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Add basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 4: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

Lay a cooked cabbage leaf flat on a cutting board.
Place about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture in the center.
Fold in the sides of the cabbage leaf and roll it up, just like a burrito, to seal the filling inside.
Repeat this process until all the filling is used.

Step 5: Cook the Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
Place the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top.
Cover with foil and bake for 45-50 minutes, until the beef is cooked through and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Remove from the oven and let the cabbage rolls rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, or fresh basil.
Serve with a side of garlic bread, mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Helpful Tips

Choose the Right Cabbage: Green cabbage works best because it’s sturdy yet softens beautifully when cooked.
Use Cooked Rice: Adding pre-cooked rice ensures a tender and fluffy filling.
Don’t Overstuff: Use just enough filling so the cabbage leaves roll up easily without breaking.
Bake Covered: Covering the dish with foil helps the cabbage rolls retain moisture and cook evenly.
Make Ahead: These cabbage rolls can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the fridge before baking.

Cooking Tips

To make the best Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, consider these expert tips:

Extra Cheesy: Mix shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese into the filling for extra creaminess.
Slow Cooker Option: Cook the stuffed cabbage rolls in a slow cooker on low for 6-7 hours for an even more flavorful result.
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for a touch of heat.
Lighter Option: Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.

Serving Suggestions

Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls pair beautifully with:

Garlic bread for dipping into the rich tomato sauce
A fresh green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
Roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers
Creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty side

Nutritional Information

Here’s a nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 340
Carbohydrates: 24g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 620mg

Storage & Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freeze: Place cooled cabbage rolls in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes or microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?
Green cabbage is best, but red cabbage can work. Keep in mind it has a slightly firmer texture and a different flavor.

Can I make this dish low-carb?
Yes! Replace the rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.

What’s the best way to reheat cabbage rolls?
Reheat in a covered baking dish at 350°F for about 15 minutes or microwave in 1-minute increments until warm.

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Conclusion

These Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a flavorful, comforting, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or a make-ahead meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Give it a try today and enjoy a taste of Italy in every bite! 🍽️