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There is something truly comforting and heartwarming about these Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe that makes them an instant favorite at any dinner table. Tender cabbage leaves lovingly wrapped around a savory filling of ground beef, rice, and fragrant Italian herbs come together to create a dish bursting with rich flavors and irresistible textures. Whether you’re after a family-friendly meal or a dish that sings homemade goodness, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for cozy nights and special gatherings alike.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step toward making this classic dish shine. Each component plays a crucial role, from the fresh cabbage leaves providing a satisfying bite to the perfectly seasoned filling that makes every roll unforgettable.
- Ground beef: This forms the hearty and juicy base of the filling, bringing savory depth to every bite.
- Cooked rice: A staple that adds lightness and texture, balancing the meaty richness of the beef.
- Small onion: Finely chopped for a gentle sweetness that elevates the flavor profile.
- Garlic cloves: Minced for that unmistakable Italian aroma and a hint of warmth.
- Egg: Acts as a binder, holding the filling together perfectly without sacrificing tenderness.
- Dried oregano and basil: Classic Italian herbs that bring freshness and a touch of earthiness.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every ingredient’s natural taste.
- Large cabbage leaves: Blanched just right for pliability to wrap the filling snugly.
- Tomato sauce: Adds acidity and vibrant color, creating a luscious bed for baking.
- Beef broth: Infuses moisture and depth into the sauce and rolls as they bake.
- Olive oil: A drizzle that enriches the sauce and adds silkiness to the final dish.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped and sprinkled on top for a bright, herbal finish.
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. Carefully blanch each cabbage leaf for 2 to 3 minutes until they become soft and flexible. This step is crucial—it makes the leaves tender enough to roll around the filling without tearing. Once softened, remove the leaves and gently pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to avoid sogginess later on.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, and lightly beaten egg. Season the mixture with dried oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated. This filling is packed with flavor and will hold together beautifully when rolled.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Lay a cabbage leaf flat and spoon a generous portion of the filling onto the center. Fold the sides of the leaf over the filling, then roll it tightly from one end to the other, much like wrapping a burrito. If any rolls feel loose, secure them with a toothpick to keep everything intact during baking.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce and Arrange
In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce and drizzle with olive oil to create a flavorful base. Place each stuffed cabbage roll seam-side down on top of the sauce to prevent unrolling. Next, pour the beef broth evenly over the rolls and spoon the remaining tomato sauce on top to keep them moist and create a rich, tangy finish.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to trap in moisture and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes. After this initial bake, remove the foil and let the rolls brown and thicken in the sauce for an extra 15 minutes. The result is a warm, tender, and deeply flavorful meal that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top of the rolls. This final touch adds a burst of color and a touch of fresh herbaceousness that complements the hearty filling beautifully. Serve immediately and get ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic garnish here because it gives a lovely pop of green and a subtle brightness that cuts through the richness. You could also try some grated Parmesan for a nutty addition or a few crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. These accents make each serving even more special.
Side Dishes
A crusty Italian bread is an absolute must to soak up the flavorful tomato sauce. For some freshness, a crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette balances the warmth and heartiness of the rolls beautifully. Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables also pair wonderfully for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving these rolls in individual ramekins with some sauce spooned on top. Another idea is to slice them into pinwheels for a party appetizer spread that looks stunning and easy to share. No matter how you present them, this Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe shines as a comforting showstopper.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making the leftovers just as delicious—if not more so—when reheated.
Freezing
This recipe freezes exceptionally well. Arrange the rolls in a freezer-safe dish and cover tightly. They keep for up to 3 months, making it easy to enjoy this hearty meal anytime you need a comforting dish at the ready.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen rolls overnight in the fridge if possible. Warm them gently in a covered dish at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, microwave leftovers, covered, for a quicker option, just be sure to check they’re heated evenly.
FAQs
Can I use other types of meat for the filling?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of pork and beef can be delicious alternatives. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning slightly to complement the different meat flavors.
Do I need to blanch the cabbage leaves?
Yes, blanching softens the leaves so they bend without breaking. Skipping this step can make rolling very difficult and may cause the leaves to tear during preparation or baking.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your tomato sauce and broth are gluten-free, this recipe naturally contains no gluten thanks to the simple ingredients like beef, rice, and vegetables.
Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the rolls a day in advance and store them covered in the fridge. Just add the broth and sauce right before baking to keep everything fresh and flavorful.
What can I do if I don’t have beef broth?
Chicken broth or vegetable broth are fine substitutes. For an even deeper flavor, a splash of red wine mixed into the broth can bring a lovely complexity to the sauce.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a dish that blends tradition, comfort, and irresistible flavor, this Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe is it. There’s nothing quite like rolling up a perfect bundle of seasoned filling and cabbage, then baking it until everything is tender and bubbling with sauce. I wholeheartedly encourage you to try it soon—you’ll find it’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate and a true crowd-pleaser with family and friends.
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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
Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls feature tender cabbage leaves filled with a flavorful mixture of ground beef, rice, onion, and herbs, baked in a rich tomato sauce. This comforting dish offers a perfect balance of savory flavors and is ideal for a hearty family meal.
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
Other 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 softened, then remove and pat dry to make them pliable for rolling.
- Make the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Assemble the Rolls: Place a generous spoonful of the filling onto each cabbage leaf. Fold the sides over the filling and roll the leaf tightly around it. Secure with a toothpick if necessary to keep the rolls intact.
- Prepare the Sauce: Spread a layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down over the sauce. Pour the beef broth evenly over the rolls and top with the remaining tomato sauce.
- Bake: Cover the dish tightly 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 and the tops to brown slightly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the baked cabbage rolls before serving. These hearty rolls pair wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Notes
- Blanching the cabbage leaves makes them flexible and easier to roll without tearing.
- Using a mixture of fresh and dried herbs enhances the depth of flavor in the filling.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste before assembling the rolls.
- Covering the dish with foil helps keep the rolls moist during baking.
- Allow the rolls to rest for a few minutes after baking for better slicing and serving.
