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Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

  • Author: Zoe McKenney
  • Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 servings

Description

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, a delicious twist on a classic dish. Tender cabbage leaves are filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, garlic, onions, and herbs, then smothered in a rich, homemade tomato sauce. This hearty meal is perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or when you’re craving a warm and satisfying dish. Easy to make and packed with protein and fiber, these stuffed cabbage rolls are a nutritious and delicious way to enjoy Italian-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls:

  • 1 large green cabbage, core removed
  • 1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
  • 1/2 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried basil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 egg, lightly beaten

For the Tomato Sauce:

  • 2 cups crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
  2. Carefully remove the core of the cabbage using a sharp knife.
  3. Submerge the whole cabbage head into the boiling water for 3-5 minutes, peeling off the outer leaves as they soften.
  4. Transfer the softened leaves to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Repeat until you have 10-12 large leaves.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  1. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Sauté the chopped onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent (about 2-3 minutes).
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, sautéed onions and garlic, Parmesan, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, and beaten egg. Mix well.

Step 3: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

  1. Lay a softened cabbage leaf flat.
  2. Place 2-3 tablespoons of the filling in the center.
  3. Fold in the sides, then roll from the bottom up to create a tight roll.
  4. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

Step 4: Make the Tomato Sauce

  1. In a skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant.
  3. Add crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Stir well.
  4. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Bake the Cabbage Rolls

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
  3. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish.
  4. Pour the remaining sauce over the rolls, ensuring they’re fully covered.
  5. Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

  1. Remove foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes.
  2. Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan cheese.
  3. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour

SAVE THIS RECIPE ON PINTEREST

Find it online: https://cookcraze.com/italian-stuffed-cabbage-rolls/