Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls – A Hearty, Flavorful Classic! ️

 

These Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are the perfect comfort food, packed with a savory meat mixture and Italian herbs, then wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and simmered in a rich tomato sauce. It’s a dish that’s both satisfying and full of flavor, making it perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

 

Ingredients: (Serves 6)

 

For the Cabbage Rolls:

✔️ 1 large head of cabbage

✔️ 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey

✔️ 1/2 cup cooked rice

✔️ 1 medium onion (chopped)

✔️ 2 cloves garlic (minced)

✔️ 1 egg

✔️ 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

✔️ 1 tbsp dried basil

✔️ 1 tbsp dried oregano

✔️ Salt and pepper to taste

 

For the Sauce:

✔️ 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)

✔️ 1 tbsp olive oil

✔️ 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning

✔️ 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)

✔️ 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped, for garnish)

 

‍ Instructions:

 

1️⃣ Prep the cabbage leaves – Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the outer leaves of the cabbage and blanch them in the boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until softened. Set the leaves aside to cool. Discard the tough inner core of the cabbage.

 

2️⃣ Prepare the filling – In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs (basil, oregano). Season with salt and pepper and mix everything together until well combined.

 

3️⃣ Stuff the cabbage – Take each cabbage leaf and cut off the thick stem at the base. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the meat mixture in the center of each cabbage leaf. Fold the sides of the cabbage leaf in, then roll it tightly to secure the filling inside. Repeat with all the cabbage leaves and filling.

 

4️⃣ Prepare the sauce – In a large skillet or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Pour in the marinara sauce, and stir in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the sauce to a simmer.

 

5️⃣ Simmer the rolls – Carefully place the stuffed cabbage rolls into the simmering sauce. Cover and cook for about 45-60 minutes, occasionally spooning sauce over the rolls, until the cabbage is tender and the filling is fully cooked.

 

6️⃣ Serve and garnish – Once cooked, remove the cabbage rolls from the sauce and place them on a serving platter. Drizzle with the remaining sauce from the pan and garnish with fresh basil for a burst of color and flavor.

 

️ Serving Suggestions:

✔️ Serve with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a well-rounded meal.

✔️ Pair with a glass of red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese for a true Italian experience!

 

Pro Tips:

✅ Make ahead: Prepare and roll the cabbage rolls ahead of time, then store them in the fridge until ready to cook.

✅ For extra flavor: Add sausage to the meat mixture for more depth and richness.

✅ Vegetarian option: Replace the meat with ricotta cheese and spinach for a veggie-filled version.

 

These Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a perfect, comforting meal that combines classic Italian flavors in a warm, satisfying package! ️