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
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 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.
