Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Who doesn’t love a hearty, comforting dish that’s filled with rich flavors? These Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a family favorite! Tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling of seasoned beef, rice, and herbs, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce. They’re the perfect balance of hearty and flavorful, and once you taste them, you’ll understand why this dish has been a classic for generations!

Why You’ll Love Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Comfort Food at Its Best: These stuffed cabbage rolls are the epitome of comfort food. Soft cabbage leaves stuffed with a savory filling, topped with rich tomato sauce—what’s not to love?
• Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is a guaranteed hit at family dinners or gatherings. It’s filling, flavorful, and loved by everyone—from kids to adults.
• Make Ahead & Freezable: These rolls are perfect for meal prep! Make a big batch, store them in the freezer, and enjoy them for weeks to come.
• Balanced & Hearty: The combination of beef, rice, and veggies wrapped in cabbage is not only delicious but also a well-balanced meal.
• Satisfying & Flavorful: With herbs and seasonings, these rolls pack in so much flavor while still being light enough to make them the perfect comfort dish.

Ingredients

Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls come together with just a few simple ingredients. The magic lies in the balance of textures and flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Cabbage Leaves: The soft, tender leaves are the perfect wrap for the filling and cook down to perfection when simmered in sauce.
• Ground Beef: The main protein, which gives these rolls their savory richness. You could also use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Cooked Rice: Adds texture and helps to bulk up the filling while also soaking up all the delicious flavors.
• Egg: To help bind the filling together.
• Garlic: Adds an aromatic depth to the filling, making each bite full of flavor.
• Onion: A classic base flavor that enhances the overall dish.
• Tomato Sauce & Crushed Tomatoes: These form the base of the simmering sauce, giving it that rich, tangy tomato flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: A mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme that adds the signature Italian flavor to the filling and sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds richness and flavor to the filling and the sauce.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste, of course! Essential for seasoning the filling and sauce.

(Note: The full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Let’s dive into how to make these mouthwatering Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls! It’s easier than you think, and the results are worth the wait.

1. Prepare the Cabbage:
   Start by carefully removing the cabbage leaves. Cut out the tough core of the cabbage to make it easier to peel the leaves. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for about 2 minutes until they become soft and pliable. Drain and set aside to cool.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, cooked rice, egg, minced garlic, chopped onion, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This mixture should be well-combined, but don’t overmix to avoid tough stuffing.
3. Stuff the Cabbage Leaves:
   Lay each cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface. Place a generous spoonful of the filling at the bottom of each leaf, fold the sides in, and roll it up tightly, tucking in the edges as you go. Repeat this with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
   In a large saucepan, combine the tomato sauce and crushed tomatoes. Stir in more Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Cook the Rolls:
   In a large pot, layer the bottom with some of the tomato sauce. Then, arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls on top, seam side down. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the rolls, covering them completely.
6. Simmer & Cook:
   Cover the pot and let the cabbage rolls simmer on low heat for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is cooked through.
7. Serve & Enjoy:
   Carefully remove the cabbage rolls from the pot, plate them, and spoon some of the rich tomato sauce over the top. Serve warm and enjoy with crusty bread on the side!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: 350 kcal (estimate)

(Note: Nutritional information provided is an estimate and can vary based on ingredient substitutions.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

How to Serve Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

These stuffed cabbage rolls are delicious on their own, but you can elevate your meal with these serving ideas:

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up all the delicious tomato sauce.
• Green Salad: A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the richness of the cabbage rolls.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, zucchini, or asparagus add a colorful and nutritious side to your meal.
• Mashed Potatoes: For a heartier meal, serve these rolls with mashed potatoes or a creamy potato side dish.

Additional Tips

• Make Ahead: These rolls can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking. Just heat them up in the sauce before serving.
• Freezing: Freeze uncooked stuffed cabbage rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, simply thaw and simmer in the sauce as usual.
• Flavor Boost: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the tomato sauce for a little extra kick and depth of flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: You can swap out the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative or use a mix of vegetables like mushrooms, lentils, and beans for a hearty vegetarian filling.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use a different type of meat in the filling?
A1: Yes, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even pork if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust seasoning based on the meat you use.

Q2: Can I make these cabbage rolls ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! You can prepare them up to a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, just simmer in the sauce until heated through.

Q3: Can I freeze these cabbage rolls?
A3: Yes, you can freeze uncooked cabbage rolls for up to 3 months. Just let them cool before placing them in a freezer bag or airtight container. To cook, thaw overnight and simmer in the sauce.

Q4: What can I serve with these cabbage rolls?
A4: You can serve them with garlic bread, a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Q5: Can I use a different sauce for these cabbage rolls?
A5: While tomato sauce is traditional, you can experiment with other sauces like marinara or even a creamy white sauce for a different twist.

Q6: How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done?
A6: The cabbage should be tender and the filling should be fully cooked. You can cut into one of the rolls to check if the filling is cooked through.

Q7: How do I store leftovers?
A7: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Q8: Can I make these rolls without rice?
A8: Yes, you can omit the rice for a lower-carb version. Consider using cooked quinoa or cauliflower rice as a substitute.

Q9: Can I add cheese to the rolls?
A9: Absolutely! You can sprinkle grated mozzarella or Parmesan cheese inside the rolls or on top just before serving.

Q10: How long do the cabbage rolls take to cook?
A10: The rolls need to simmer in the sauce for about 45 minutes to 1 hour until the cabbage is tender and the filling is fully cooked.

Conclusion

Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are the perfect comfort food, combining savory beef, rice, and Italian herbs wrapped in tender cabbage and simmered in a rich tomato sauce. It’s a dish that will make your taste buds sing and fill your home with mouthwatering aromas. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a holiday gathering, these rolls are sure to be a hit!

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