Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a delicious and hearty dish featuring tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful filling of ground meat, rice, herbs, and cheese, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This comforting meal is packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious and satisfying option for lunch or dinner.

Servings: 4-6

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes

---

Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 large green cabbage
• 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and Italian sausage)
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded (optional)
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 cups crushed tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
• 1/2 cup chicken or beef broth
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

---

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Cut out the core of the cabbage and place the whole head in the boiling water.
3. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, then peel off the softened leaves with tongs.
4. Repeat until you have about 12-14 large, intact leaves. Set them aside.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, Parmesan cheese, mozzarella (if using), beaten egg, salt, pepper, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and parsley.
2. Mix well until evenly combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté the chopped onion for 3-4 minutes until softened.
3. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, broth, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

1. Place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface.
2. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of the filling onto the center.
3. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll from the bottom up to create a tight roll.
4. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

Step 5: Cook the Cabbage Rolls

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
3. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish.
4. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the rolls.
5. Cover with foil and bake for 50-60 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.

Step 6: Serve

• Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley before serving.

---

Tips for Success

✔ Blanch the cabbage properly – Softened leaves roll much easier.
✔ Use cooked rice – Uncooked rice won’t soften properly inside the rolls.
✔ Don’t overstuff – Too much filling can cause the rolls to burst while cooking.
✔ Let it rest – Allow the rolls to sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavor.
✔ Make it ahead – These can be assembled a day in advance and refrigerated before baking.

---

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

(Approximate values for 2 cabbage rolls with sauce)

• Calories: 350-400
• Protein: 25g
• Carbs: 30g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sodium: 600mg

---

Health Benefits

✅ High in Protein – Supports muscle health and keeps you full.
✅ Rich in Fiber – Cabbage and rice aid digestion.
✅ Low in Carbs (if using cauliflower rice) – Great for low-carb diets.
✅ Packed with Vitamins – Cabbage is high in vitamin C and K, essential for immunity and bone health.
✅ Heart-Healthy Ingredients – Olive oil and tomatoes contain antioxidants and healthy fats.

---

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q: Can I make these cabbage rolls vegetarian?
A: Yes! Swap the ground meat for lentils, mushrooms, or a mix of quinoa and beans.

Q: Can I freeze cabbage rolls?
A: Yes! Assemble the rolls and freeze them (before or after cooking) for up to 3 months.

Q: What can I serve with stuffed cabbage rolls?
A: They pair well with garlic bread, a side salad, or roasted vegetables.

Q: Can I use a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Place the rolls in the slow cooker, cover with sauce, and cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Q: How do I prevent the rolls from falling apart?
A: Make sure to tuck in the sides tightly and place them seam-side down in the baking dish.

---

This Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe is a perfect blend of rich flavors and comforting textures. Whether served fresh or frozen for later, it’s a meal the whole family will love!