Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Core the cabbage and carefully peel off about 12 whole leaves.
3. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2–3 minutes until they become pliable.
4. Transfer to an ice bath to cool, then drain and pat dry with a paper towel.
Step 2: Make the Filling
1. In a large bowl, mix the ground meat, cooked rice, Parmesan, onion, garlic, egg, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
1. Lay a cabbage leaf on a flat surface. Place about 2 tablespoons of filling in the center.
2. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll it up tightly like a burrito. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and saute for 2–3 minutes until soft.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, basil, sugar, salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, and water or broth.
5. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Cook the Cabbage Rolls
1. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the skillet with the sauce.
2. Spoon some sauce over the rolls.
3. Cover and simmer on low heat for 45–50 minutes until the rolls are cooked through. Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45 minutes.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley.
Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad.
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving – Approx. 2 Rolls)
Calories: 320
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 500mg
Notes & Tips
Meat Variations: Try a mix of ground beef for extra flavor. Ground turkey or chicken also work.
Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the rolls a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Cook 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: Swap rice for cauliflower rice to reduce carbs.
Enjoy your homemade Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls!
