Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the cabbage leaves
Bring a large pan of salted water to a boil.
Remove the core of the cabbage and carefully peel off about 12 whole leaves.
Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2–3 minutes until they become pliable.
Cool in an ice bath, drain and pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Make the filling
In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, Parmesan cheese, onion, garlic, egg, parsley, oregano, salt and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the rolls
Lay a cabbage leaf on a flat surface. Place about 2 tablespoons of filling in the center.
Fold the sides over the filling and roll tightly like a burrito. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
Step 4: Make the sauce
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
Add the onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, sugar, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes and water or stock.
Simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Cook the cabbage rolls
Step 5: Cook the cabbage rolls
Place the cabbage rolls seam side down in the skillet with the sauce.
Spoon some sauce over the rolls.
Cover and simmer on low heat for 45-50 minutes until the rolls are cooked through. Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for 45 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread or a salad.
Nutrition Facts
Per Serving (Approx. 2 Rolls):
Calories: 320
Protein: 25g
Carbs: 20g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 500mg
Notes & Tips
Meat Variations: Try a mix of ground beef for extra flavor. Ground turkey or chicken will also work.
Make Ahead Tip: Prepare the rolls a day in advance and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
Freezing: Freeze uncooked or cooked rolls in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before cooking or reheating.
Low Carb Option: Replace rice with cauliflower rice to reduce carbs.
Enjoy your homemade Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls!
ADVERTISEMENT
