There is something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty meal that feels like a big, flavorful hug from your kitchen. This Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe captures that feeling perfectly with tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory, herby ground beef and rice filling, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce. Each bite brings a wonderful blend of textures and earthy Italian herbs making it a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for family dinners or gathering with friends. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become one of your favorite go-to dishes for cozy nights at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding texture, enhancing flavor, or bringing vibrant color to the dish. These basics come together effortlessly to create a meal that’s anything but ordinary.
- 1 lb ground beef: The hearty base of the filling that adds rich, savory flavor.
- 1 cup cooked rice: Gives a pleasant, chewy texture and helps bind the filling.
- 1 small onion (finely chopped): Adds a touch of sweetness and depth when cooked.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Infuses the filling with classic Italian aroma and zest.
- 1 egg (lightly beaten): Acts as a binder to hold the filling together perfectly.
- ½ tsp dried oregano: Brings earthy, peppery notes essential for that Italian flair.
- ½ tsp dried basil: Adds a sweet, aromatic punch that brightens the filling.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- 12 large cabbage leaves: Tender wrappers that hold the flavorful filling snugly.
- 1 cup tomato sauce: Provides a tangy, rich base to keep the rolls moist and delicious.
- ½ cup beef broth: Adds depth and keeps the rolls juicy while baking.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Drizzled for a silky texture and a hint of richness on top.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): A fresh pop of green and mild flavor that makes the dish look as good as it tastes.
How to Make Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Then carefully blanch the cabbage leaves for about 2 to 3 minutes until they are pliable and soft enough to roll without cracking. Once tender, drain and gently pat the leaves dry with paper towels, setting them aside for assembly. This step is key because it ensures that the cabbage is tender yet sturdy enough to hold all that delicious filling.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a spacious bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and lightly beaten egg. Sprinkle in the dried oregano and basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will make each roll absolutely irresistible.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Lay out each cabbage leaf flat and place a generous spoonful of the filling in the center. Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly from the stem end upwards, creating neat little parcels. If needed, secure them with a toothpick to keep everything snug and secure during baking.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce and Bake
Spread a layer of tomato sauce across the bottom of a baking dish and drizzle it with olive oil to add richness. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish. Pour the beef broth evenly over the rolls, then top everything with the remaining tomato sauce. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes. After that, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to develop a lovely, slightly caramelized finish on top.
How to Serve Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top. This little burst of green not only adds a fresh, mild flavor but also makes those beautiful rolls look incredibly inviting. The parsley balances the richness perfectly and adds a touch of bright freshness to the plate.
Side Dishes
This dish shines best when paired with something simple and complementary. Consider serving it alongside warm, crusty bread to soak up the luscious tomato sauce or a crisp green salad to add some fresh crunch. Mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables can also be fantastic companions for a heartier meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a delightful twist, you can serve individual rolls over a bed of polenta or creamy risotto, turning this Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe into a stunning centerpiece for special occasions. Alternatively, arrange the rolls in overlapping layers on a large platter and garnish with extra parsley and grated Parmesan for a rustic, family-style presentation that invites everyone to dig in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, simply transfer the cabbage rolls and sauce into an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for a perfect next-day lunch or dinner that tastes just as satisfying as when freshly cooked.
Freezing
This Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe freezes wonderfully. Arrange the rolls in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator to ensure they reheat evenly.
Reheating
To reheat, pop the rolls into a covered baking dish and warm them at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until heated through. If you’re in a rush, the microwave can work too—just cover the dish and heat on medium power, checking every couple of minutes to avoid drying out the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat for the filling?
Absolutely! While ground beef is classic and flavorful, you can easily substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even pork to suit your taste or dietary preferences without sacrificing any of the deliciousness.
Do I have to blanch the cabbage leaves?
Blanching softens the cabbage leaves, making them pliable and easier to roll without tearing. Skipping this step can result in tougher rolls that may crack during preparation or baking, so it’s best not to skip it.
Can I make these rolls vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the ground beef with a mixture of cooked lentils, mushrooms, or finely chopped veggies combined with rice and seasonings. The tomato sauce and herbs will still deliver plenty of flavor.
What can I use instead of rice?
If you prefer, you can swap out rice for quinoa, couscous, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. These alternatives will also absorb flavors nicely and add interesting textures.
How long do I need to bake the rolls?
The recipe calls for baking covered for 45 minutes, then uncovered for 15 minutes at 375°F (190°C). This ensures the rolls are cooked through and the sauce thickens up beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Making this Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe is like creating a warm, comforting tradition in your own kitchen. It’s straightforward enough for a weeknight meal but hearty and flavorful enough to impress guests. Give it a try, and you’ll discover how a handful of simple ingredients can come together to make an unforgettable dish that you’ll want to share over and over again.
Print
Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
These Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, herbs, and spices. Baked in a rich tomato and beef broth sauce, this recipe yields hearty rolls perfect for a family meal or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Additional Ingredients:
- 12 large cabbage leaves
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- ½ cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully blanch the cabbage leaves for 2–3 minutes until soft and pliable. Remove the leaves and pat them dry with a clean towel or paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, lightly beaten egg, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined, ensuring even distribution of herbs and seasoning.
- Assemble the Rolls: Lay each cabbage leaf flat and place a generous spoonful of the beef and rice mixture near the base. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling and roll it up tightly to enclose the mixture. Secure with a toothpick if necessary to hold the rolls together during baking.
- Prepare the Sauce and Arrange Rolls: In a baking dish, spread a layer of tomato sauce and drizzle with olive oil to coat the bottom. Place the assembled cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish. Pour the beef broth evenly over the rolls, then top with the remaining tomato sauce.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly and the rolls to brown lightly on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven and sprinkle the stuffed cabbage rolls with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm, optionally accompanied by crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Blanching the cabbage leaves softens them, making them easier to roll without tearing.
- Using cooked rice helps bind the filling and adds texture.
- Securing the rolls with toothpicks prevents them from unraveling during baking.
- The tomato sauce can be homemade or store-bought depending on preference.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.
