Description
Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a comforting dish featuring tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory beef and rice mixture, all simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This hearty meal blends classic Italian flavors, making it a delicious and satisfying choice for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Rolls:
1 large green cabbage
1 pound (450g) ground beef
1/2 cup cooked rice
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 large egg
For the Sauce:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Cabbage:
- Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the outer cabbage leaves and blanch them in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Filling:
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, cooked rice, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix well until fully combined.
- Assemble the Rolls:
- Place about 2 tablespoons of the beef mixture onto each cabbage leaf. Roll up tightly, folding in the sides, and secure with toothpicks if needed.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Cook the Cabbage Rolls:
- Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the skillet. Spoon some sauce over them.
- Cover and let simmer over low heat for 30-40 minutes until the beef is fully cooked and the flavors meld together.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve warm, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil if desired.
Notes
Meat Variations: Swap ground beef for turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
Cheesy Twist: Add mozzarella inside the rolls or sprinkle on top before serving.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Low-Carb Alternative: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice to make it keto-friendly.
Storage: Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4-6 servings
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
