If you’re craving a comforting and heartwarming meal that feels like a warm hug, this Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful mixture of ground beef, Parmesan, herbs, and rice, all simmered gently in a rich tomato sauce, these rolls offer an irresistible combination of textures and tastes. Perfect for family dinners or cozy weekend cooking, this recipe transforms humble ingredients into a dish that feels truly special and lovingly homemade.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh, and pantry-friendly ingredients is key to making these Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls truly shine. Each element brings a unique flavor or texture that comes together beautifully, from the fragrant herbs to the creamy Parmesan and the slight sweetness of the tomato sauce.
- 1 large green cabbage: Provides tender, pliable leaves perfect for wrapping the filling.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty protein base that makes these rolls filling and savory.
- 1/2 cup cooked rice: Adds bulk and a soft texture that complements the beef.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Infuses a salty, nutty flavor into the filling.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Brings sweetness and a subtle crunch inside the filling.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a warm aromatic depth to the meat mixture.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: A classic Italian herb to elevate the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a fragrant, slightly sweet herbaceous note.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle heat and complexity.
- 1 large egg: Binds the filling ingredients together for easy rolling.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing and enriching the tomato sauce.
- 1 small onion, chopped: Provides flavor and texture to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Vital for a robust and fragrant sauce base.
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes: Creates the rich, comforting sauce that ties it all together.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Enhances the sauce with classic Italian flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil: Adds brightness and complexity to the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes for a smoother taste.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Adjust seasoning to perfect the sauce.
How to Make Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a gentle boil. Carefully peel away the outer leaves of the cabbage, aiming for around 12 large leaves. Blanch these cabbage leaves for about 2-3 minutes just until they become soft and pliable enough to roll without tearing. Drain and set them aside on a clean kitchen towel to cool down.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine your ground beef, cooked rice, grated Parmesan, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and the egg. Mix everything thoroughly so that the flavors meld and the egg helps bind all the ingredients together smoothly. This filling is the heart of the Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe, offering layers of savory, cheesy, and herbal richness.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Take each cabbage leaf and place roughly 2 tablespoons of your beef mixture onto it. Fold in both sides of the cabbage leaf, then roll it up tightly so the filling stays enclosed. If you find the rolls are a bit loose, you can secure them with toothpicks to hold their shape during cooking. This step is where everything starts to come together, wrapping the flavors into those beautiful parcels.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent, releasing those lovely aromas that set the stage for the sauce. Next, add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, sugar, and season with salt and pepper. Stir and let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes to deepen its flavor.
Step 5: Cook the Cabbage Rolls
Gently arrange the prepared cabbage rolls seam-side down inside the skillet with the simmering sauce. Spoon a bit of sauce over the tops to keep them moist. Cover the skillet with a lid and let everything simmer on low heat for 30 to 40 minutes, until the beef is fully cooked and the cabbage has absorbed the tomatoey goodness, making every bite satisfyingly tender.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Once cooked, carefully remove the toothpicks if used, and transfer the rolls to plates. These Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe beauties are best served warm, with extra grated Parmesan or fresh basil on top for an extra burst of flavor and color.
How to Serve Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a salty finish or add torn fresh basil leaves to brighten every bite. A drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive oil can also add a silky richness that complements the sauce perfectly.
Side Dishes
Serve these cabbage rolls alongside creamy mashed potatoes, a simple garlic bread, or a crisp green salad for a well-rounded meal. A light vegetable sauté or roasted carrots will also balance the hearty flavors wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, consider plating individual rolls topped with a swirl of sauce and garnished with herbs in small ramekins or on a rustic wooden board for a cozy, inviting presentation. You can also turn leftovers into a hearty casserole by layering the rolls and sauce with mozzarella and baking until bubbly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe should be cooled completely before storing in an airtight container. They keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them perfect for next-day lunches or light dinners.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Arrange the cooked rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They will keep well for up to 3 months, ready to reheat whenever you need a comforting meal.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen rolls overnight in the fridge first. Warm gently in a skillet over low heat or bake covered in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the tenderness of the cabbage and the integrity of the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great lean alternatives and will still taste delicious. Just keep in mind that the cooking time remains the same, and you may want to add a tad more seasoning to brighten up the flavor.
Do I have to use rice in the filling?
The rice helps with texture and binding the filling, but if you prefer, you can substitute with quinoa, cooked bulgur, or even omit it for a meat-only filling. Just remember the mixture might be looser and trickier to roll without the rice.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground meat for cooked lentils, mushrooms, or a plant-based ground substitute. Make sure to adjust seasoning and perhaps add a bit more cheese or breadcrumbs to bind the filling well.
What’s the best way to remove the cabbage leaves?
Start by peeling away the outer, looser leaves, then cut around the core of the cabbage to loosen the inner leaves. Repeatedly blanching the leaves helps to soften them, making rolling much easier.
How do I know when the rolls are done cooking?
The rolls are ready when the beef is fully cooked through and the cabbage is tender but not falling apart. The sauce should be simmering gently for 30 to 40 minutes. If you cut into a roll and see no pink, they’re perfectly cooked.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about sitting down to a plate of warm, saucy, and tender Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe. It’s a dish that brings comfort and joy, perfect for creating memories around the dinner table. If you haven’t tried making these rolls yet, treat yourself — you’ll be rewarded with a delicious, wholesome meal that feels like home in every bite.
Print
Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
These Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls feature tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful mixture of ground beef, rice, and Parmesan cheese, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with herbs. A comforting and hearty dish perfect for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
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 to cool.
- Make the Filling: In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, grated Parmesan cheese, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, black pepper, and the egg. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble the Rolls: Place about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture onto each softened cabbage leaf. Roll up the leaf tightly around the filling, folding in the sides to enclose. Secure with toothpicks if necessary to hold the shape.
- Prepare the Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for about 2 minutes until fragrant and translucent.
- Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then add dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer gently for 10 minutes to develop flavors.
- Cook the Cabbage Rolls: Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the skillet with the sauce. Spoon some sauce over each roll to coat.
- Simmer: Cover the skillet with a lid and simmer over low heat for 30 to 40 minutes. This will ensure the beef is fully cooked and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Serve & Enjoy: Remove the toothpicks, spoon extra sauce over the rolls, and serve warm. Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired for an authentic Italian touch.
Notes
- Blanching the cabbage leaves softens them, making them easier to roll without tearing.
- Using cooked rice helps bind the filling and adds texture.
- Make sure to simmer the stuffed rolls gently to prevent the cabbage from becoming mushy.
- You can prepare the rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them before cooking.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.
