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Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

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Bring the heart of Italian comfort food to your table with these Authentic Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls! Made with tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling of ground beef, chicken, rice, and Parmesan cheese, these rolls are simmered in a rich, herbed tomato sauce for maximum flavor. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, meal prep, or even a special occasion, this recipe is a delicious and hearty classic that everyone will love.

Unlike traditional Eastern European versions, these Italian-style cabbage rolls focus on Mediterranean flavors with aromatic basil, oregano, and garlic. Whether you’re making them the traditional way, a vegetarian version, or a low-carb alternative, this dish is versatile, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful.

Want to explore more Italian comfort foods? Check out these authentic Italian recipe ideas on Pinterest!

Ingredients

Scale

For the cabbage rolls:

  • 1 large green cabbage
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1/2 pound ground chicken
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 egg, beaten

For the sauce:

  • 2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove 12 large cabbage leaves and blanch them in the boiling water for about 2 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large bowl, mix ground beef, ground chicken, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and beaten egg until well combined.
  3. Lay a cabbage leaf flat and place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture in the center. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll tightly. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
  4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Place the cabbage rolls seam side down in the skillet with the sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for 45 minutes, occasionally spooning sauce over the rolls.
  6. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm.

Notes

✔ Cabbage Selection: Use green or Savoy cabbage for the best texture. If using tough leaves, blanch them a bit longer for easier rolling.

✔ Rice Alternative: For a low-carb version, swap rice with cauliflower rice or grated zucchini.

✔ Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the rolls up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the fridge before cooking.

✔ Storage & Freezing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

✔ Cooking Methods: These rolls can be simmered on the stovetop, baked in the oven, or cooked in a slow cooker—each method brings out unique textures and flavors.

✔ Sauce Tips: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes or add a small amount of tomato paste or Parmesan cheese.

Want to learn more about traditional Italian sauces? Check out this in-depth guide to Italian tomato sauce.

Enjoy your homemade Italian stuffed cabbage rolls—buon appetito! 🍽️✨

Find it online: https://claradelish.com/italian-stuffed-cabbage-rolls/