Italian-Style Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

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Italian-Style Stuffed Cabbage Rolls – Hearty & Cheesy Comfort Food
These Italian-Style Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are packed with a flavorful meat filling and simmered in rich tomato sauce

Introduction

If you’re craving a comforting, flavorful dish, these Italian-Style Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are just what you need! Unlike traditional stuffed cabbage rolls, this Italian-inspired version is filled with savory ground beef, Italian sausage, rice, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, then simmered in a rich tomato and garlic sauce for an irresistible meal. Creamy White Chicken Chili Recipe

This recipe is hearty, wholesome, and perfect for meal prep. Plus, it’s a great way to use cabbage in a delicious and satisfying way! Serve with crusty Italian bread or a fresh salad for the ultimate Italian comfort food experience.

Let’s get started! 🍽️ Mexican Chicken with Cheese Sauce

🥬 Ingredients for Italian-Style Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

For the Cabbage Rolls:

  • 1 large head of green cabbage
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • ½ lb Italian sausage, casing removed
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

For the Tomato Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 can (14 oz) tomato sauce
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon sugar (to balance acidity)
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • ¼ cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped
These Italian-Style Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are packed with a flavorful meat filling and simmered in rich tomato sauce.

🔥 How to Make Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Remove the core from the cabbage and gently peel off 12-14 whole leaves.
  3. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then drain and pat dry. Honey Lime Chicken and Avocado Rice Stack

Step 2: Make the Filling

  1. In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef, Italian sausage, cooked rice, Parmesan, egg, garlic, salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and parsley.
  2. Stir until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

  1. Lay a cabbage leaf flat and place ¼ cup of the filling near the base.
  2. Roll the leaf tightly, tucking in the sides as you go.
  3. Repeat with the remaining leaves.

Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

  1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
  3. Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, sugar, and red pepper flakes.
  4. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Cook the Cabbage Rolls

  1. Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down into the tomato sauce.
  2. Cover and simmer for 45-50 minutes, until the cabbage is tender.
  3. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.
These Italian-Style Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are packed with a flavorful meat filling and simmered in rich tomato sauce.

💡 Pro Tips for the Best Cabbage Rolls

✔ Use savoy cabbage for a more delicate texture.
✔ Make it low-carb by substituting rice with riced cauliflower.
✔ Want extra flavor? Add red wine to the tomato sauce!
✔ For a cheesy twist, add mozzarella cheese inside each roll.
✔ Prepare ahead – Make the rolls in advance and refrigerate overnight.

🍽️ What to Serve with Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

✔ Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
✔ Roasted Vegetables – A light and healthy side.
✔ Caesar Salad – A fresh, crisp balance to the dish.
✔ Pasta – Serve with a side of buttered spaghetti for a full meal.
✔ Polenta – A creamy and delicious Italian favorite.

🍅 Recipe Variations

1. Vegetarian Italian Cabbage Rolls

  • Swap the meat for lentils, mushrooms, or quinoa.

2. Spicy Italian Cabbage Rolls

  • Add extra red pepper flakes and spicy Italian sausage.

3. Cheesy Baked Cabbage Rolls

  • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top before baking.

4. Crockpot Cabbage Rolls

  • Cook in a slow cooker on LOW for 6-7 hours for a hands-off meal.

🛒 How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Refrigerator:

  • Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

Freezer:

  • Freeze uncooked rolls for up to 3 months.
  • When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and cook as directed.

Reheating Instructions:

  • Microwave: Heat on high for 2-3 minutes.
  • Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.

❓ FAQs About Italian-Style Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

1. Can I use red cabbage?

Yes, but red cabbage has a firmer texture and a slightly sweeter taste.

2. Do I have to cook the rice first?

Yes, cooked rice ensures the filling stays soft and tender.

3. Can I make this in advance?

Absolutely! Assemble the rolls a day ahead and refrigerate before cooking.

4. What’s the best way to roll cabbage leaves?

Use soft, blanched leaves and roll like a burrito—tuck the sides in for a tight seal.

5. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey makes a leaner but still flavorful option.

🔗 Internal & External Links

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🌟 Conclusion

These Italian-Style Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a hearty, flavorful, and comforting meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep. With a rich tomato sauce, savory meat filling, and melted Parmesan cheese, this dish is sure to become a favorite!

Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! 🇮🇹✨

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