Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls: A Hearty Comfort Food

Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls bring together the rustic charm of Italian flavors with the comforting texture of tender cabbage and a savory beef-and-rice filling. This dish is a delightful twist on traditional stuffed cabbage, incorporating Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and a rich tomato sauce to create a cozy and satisfying meal.

Whether you’re looking for a warm, home-cooked dinner or a dish that can be prepared ahead of time, these stuffed cabbage rolls are perfect for feeding a hungry family. The combination of seasoned beef, aromatic herbs, and tangy tomato sauce makes every bite burst with flavor. Plus, they’re baked to perfection, ensuring a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

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Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 large green cabbage
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1/2 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 1 large egg
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Sauce:

• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

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Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Remove the core from the cabbage using a sharp knife.
3. Place the whole cabbage into the boiling water and let it cook for about 5 minutes.
4. Carefully peel off the softened outer leaves and set them aside. Continue this process until you have about 10–12 large leaves.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, egg, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

1. Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface.
2. Place about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf.
3. Fold in the sides and roll tightly, securing the filling inside.
4. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

1. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper.
3. Stir well and simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Step 5: Cook the Cabbage Rolls

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Spread a small amount 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 sauce over the rolls, making sure they are well covered.
5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45–50 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the filling is fully cooked.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

1. Let the cabbage rolls cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh basil if desired.
3. Serve hot and enjoy a comforting, hearty Italian meal!

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Storage & Reheating Tips

Refrigeration:

• Allow the cabbage rolls to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

• To freeze, arrange the cabbage rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

• Oven: Place the cabbage rolls in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual rolls in the microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking to ensure they are heated through.

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Tips for the Best Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Choose a large cabbage with pliable leaves for easier rolling. If the leaves are stiff, blanch them in boiling water for a few seconds to soften them.
• For extra flavor, mix a little tomato sauce into the filling before rolling the cabbage.
• Make it ahead of time! These cabbage rolls taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
• Experiment with variations: Try using ground turkey or Italian sausage for a different twist on this classic dish.

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Final Thoughts

Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are the perfect balance of comfort food and classic Italian flavors. Whether you serve them for a Sunday dinner, a holiday gathering, or meal prep for the week, they are guaranteed to satisfy. The combination of tender cabbage, rich tomato sauce, and cheesy beef filling makes this dish both hearty and wholesome.

So next time you’re craving a warm, home-cooked meal, give these Italian-inspired cabbage rolls a try—you won’t be disappointed! 🍽️🇮🇹