Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a delicious and hearty dish that combines tender cabbage leaves with a savory filling. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or a comforting weekend meal. The combination of flavors makes it a favorite among many.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls is a great way to enjoy a classic dish that’s both nutritious and filling. It’s a wonderful option for using up leftover cabbage and offers a good balance of protein and grains. Plus, it’s an easy dish to prepare, making it suitable for those who may not be skilled in the kitchen.
How to Make Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Ingredients:
- 1 large green cabbage
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 large egg
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully remove the leaves from the cabbage and blanch them in boiling water until they are tender.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, and egg.
- Place a scoop of the filling onto each cabbage leaf and roll it up, tucking in the sides to secure the filling.
- Arrange the rolls in a baking dish and cover them with tomato sauce.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
You can serve Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls warm, right after they come out of the oven. They are best enjoyed with more tomato sauce on top and a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil. A side of crusty bread or a fresh salad can also complement the meal nicely.
How to Store Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cabbage rolls. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months.
Tips to Make Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
- Make sure to blanch the cabbage leaves long enough to make them flexible, but not too long that they become mushy.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning in the filling to your taste; adding herbs like oregano or basil can give it extra flavor.
- You can prepare the rolls ahead of time and refrigerate them before baking for an easy meal when you’re short on time.
Variation
For a vegetarian option, you can replace the ground beef with lentils or a mix of chopped vegetables. You can also use quinoa instead of rice for a different take on the dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef if you prefer a lighter option.
2. Is it possible to make this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cabbage rolls a day ahead and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake them.
3. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella or feta for different flavors. Just keep in mind how it melts or blends with the dish.

Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
A delicious and hearty dish combining tender cabbage leaves with a savory beef filling and topped with tomato sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 large green cabbage
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1/2 cup cooked rice
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 large egg
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully remove the leaves from the cabbage and blanch them in boiling water until they are tender.
- In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, and egg.
- Place a scoop of the filling onto each cabbage leaf and roll it up, tucking in the sides to secure the filling.
- Arrange the rolls in a baking dish and cover them with tomato sauce.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, replace the ground beef with lentils or a mix of chopped vegetables. You can also use quinoa instead of rice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 roll
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: cabbage rolls, Italian, stuffed cabbage, comfort food, family dinner
