Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

by

Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls – Savory, Saucy & Comforting

Tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful filling of beef, rice, Parmesan, and herbs—simmered in rich tomato sauce for a cozy, old-world meal.

Introduction: A Rustic Italian Classic

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a beloved dish across many cultures, but this Italian-inspired version brings a Mediterranean twist to the table. With a savory beef and rice filling, nutty Parmesan, and aromatic garlic and onion, these rolls are nestled in a rich tomato sauce and baked until tender and flavorful.

Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a comforting Sunday supper, these Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a delicious way to bring warmth and tradition to your kitchen.

Ingredients Breakdown

Let’s take a closer look at what makes these cabbage rolls so satisfying:

For the Cabbage Rolls:

  • Green cabbage (1 large, about 12 leaves)
    Blanched until tender—perfect for wrapping the filling.
  • Ground beef (1 lb / 450g)
    Hearty and flavorful—use lean or regular depending on preference.
  • Cooked rice (½ cup, white or brown)
    Adds texture and helps bind the filling.
  • Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated)
    Nutty and salty—adds depth to the filling.
  • Onion (¼ cup, finely chopped)
    Adds sweetness and aroma.
  • Garlic (2 cloves, minced)
    Essential for Italian flavor.

Optional: Add chopped parsley, crushed red pepper, or Italian seasoning for extra flair.

For the Tomato Sauce (optional but recommended):

  • 2 cups crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce
    Rich and tangy—perfect for simmering.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
    Adds richness and helps sauté aromatics.
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
    Infuses the sauce with flavor.
  • 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
    Adds herby depth.
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment Needed

  • Large pot (for blanching cabbage)
  • Mixing bowl
  • Skillet (if making sauce)
  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Foil
  • Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

Carefully remove 12 large cabbage leaves from the head.

Blanch in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, until pliable.

Transfer to a towel-lined tray to cool and drain.

Tip: Trim the thick stem at the base of each leaf for easier rolling.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a large bowl, combine:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • ½ cup cooked rice
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan
  • ¼ cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves minced garlic
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Mix until evenly combined—do not overwork.

Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce (Optional)

In a skillet over medium heat:

  • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Add 1 minced garlic clove and sauté until fragrant

Add:

  • 2 cups crushed tomatoes or marinara
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Assemble the Rolls

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.

Place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface.

Add 2–3 tablespoons of filling near the base.

Fold sides over and roll tightly like a burrito.

Place seam-side down in the dish.

Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

Step 5: Bake

Pour remaining sauce over the rolls.

Cover with foil and bake for 45 minutes.

Uncover and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, until:

  • Rolls are tender
  • Sauce is bubbling

Step 6: Serve

Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Garnish with:

  • Extra Parmesan
  • Fresh basil or parsley

Serve hot with:

  • Garlic bread
  • A crisp green salad
  • A glass of Chianti

Yields:

  • *6 servings (2 rolls each)

Serving Suggestions

Perfect for:

  • Cozy family dinners
  • Make-ahead meals
  • Holiday gatherings
  • Freezer-friendly meal prep

Pair with:

  • Roasted vegetables
  • Polenta or mashed potatoes
  • A drizzle of balsamic glaze

Presentation Tip: Serve in a rustic ceramic dish with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of cheese.

Variations to Try

Want to make them your own? Try these delicious twists:

Cheesy Mozzarella

Add shredded mozzarella to the filling or on top before baking.

Spicy Italian

Use hot Italian sausage instead of ground beef.

Vegetarian

Swap beef for lentils or mushrooms and use veggie broth in the sauce.

Low-Carb

Replace rice with cauliflower rice or omit entirely.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Make-Ahead: Assemble rolls and refrigerate up to 1 day before baking.
  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze baked or unbaked rolls for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in oven.

Tip: Freeze in individual portions for easy lunches.

Nutrition Notes (Per Serving, ~1 of 6)

  • Calories: ~320
  • Protein: ~22g
  • Carbohydrates: ~12g
  • Fat: ~20g
  • Sugar: ~4g
  • Sodium: ~480mg
  • Fiber: ~3g

These rolls are:

  • Hearty and wholesome
  • Cheesy and savory
  • Perfectly portioned
  • Great for sharing

Final Thoughts

These Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are more than just a meal—they’re a comforting embrace of tradition, flavor, and family-style cooking. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, they’re guaranteed to impress and satisfy.

Leave a Comment