Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Description
Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls combine tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory filling of ground meat, herbs, garlic, and rice, all simmered in a rich tomato basil sauce. This dish is hearty, flavorful, budget-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners or family gatherings. It’s similar to traditional stuffed cabbage but infused with classic Italian flavors like parmesan, oregano, and fresh basil.
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Rolls
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1 large green cabbage
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1 lb (450 g) ground beef or ground turkey
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1 cup cooked rice (white, brown, or Arborio)
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1 small onion, finely diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 egg
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
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1 tsp dried oregano
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1 tsp dried basil
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1 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce
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1 can (28 oz / 800 g) crushed tomatoes
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2 tbsp olive oil
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small onion, diced
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1 tsp sugar (optional, balances acidity)
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1 tsp dried basil
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1 tsp dried oregano
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Salt & pepper to taste
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Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cabbage
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Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
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Remove the core of the cabbage and place the whole head in boiling water.
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Cook 3–5 minutes until outer leaves soften, then peel off.
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Continue until you have 12–14 large leaves.
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Trim the thick stem on each leaf for easier rolling.
2. Make the Filling
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In a large bowl combine:
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Ground meat
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Cooked rice
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Onion
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Garlic
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Egg
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Parmesan
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Parsley
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Oregano, basil
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Salt and pepper
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Mix gently with your hands until well combined.
3. Prepare the Sauce
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Heat olive oil in a pan.
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Sauté onions 3 minutes, then add garlic for 1 minute.
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Add crushed tomatoes, basil, oregano, sugar, salt & pepper.
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Simmer on low 10–15 minutes.
4. Assemble the Rolls
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Lay a cabbage leaf flat.
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Spoon 2–3 tbsp of filling in the center.
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Fold sides inward, then roll like a burrito.
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Place seam-side down into a baking dish or pot.
5. Cook
Oven Method (recommended):
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
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Pour sauce over rolls.
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Cover tightly with foil.
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Bake 60–75 minutes until meat is fully cooked and cabbage is tender.
Stovetop Method:
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Place rolls in a large pot.
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Pour sauce over.
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Cover and simmer on low 60–75 minutes.
Serving
Serves: 4–6 people
Serving size: 2–3 cabbage rolls
Garnish with fresh basil or extra Parmesan.
Estimated Nutritional Information (per serving, ~2 rolls)
(Varies by meat and rice choice)
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Calories: 360–420
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Protein: 25–28g
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Carbohydrates: 28–32g
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Fat: 14–18g
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Fiber: 4–6g
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Sodium: 650–800mg
Notes & Tips
• Meat Options
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Substitute beef with turkey, chicken, pork, or a 50/50 beef-sausage mix for more flavor.
• Rice Alternatives
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Use quinoa, farro, or cauliflower rice for low-carb rolls.
• Don’t skip softening the cabbage
It prevents tearing and makes rolling easy.
• Make Ahead
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Assemble rolls a day ahead and refrigerate.
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They also freeze beautifully for up to 3 months.
• Add Cheese
Mozzarella or provolone can be sprinkled on top during the last 15 minutes of baking.
Health Benefits
1. High in Protein
Ground meat provides essential amino acids for muscle repair and energy.
2. Packed with Fiber
Cabbage adds digestive health benefits and helps maintain fullness.
3. Nutrient-Dense
Cabbage contains vitamin C, K, folate, and antioxidants.
4. Heart-Friendly Options
Using turkey or cauliflower rice lowers calories and fat.
5. Balanced Meal
Contains protein, vegetables, and carbs in one convenient dish.
Q & A
Q1: Can I make this recipe low-carb?
A: Yes! Swap rice for cauliflower rice and use turkey or chicken.
Q2: Can I freeze stuffed cabbage rolls?
A: Absolutely. Freeze before or after cooking. Thaw overnight and bake until heated through.
Q3: Can I use red cabbage?
A: It’s possible, but green cabbage softens better and rolls more easily.
Q4: What can I serve with it?
A: Garlic bread, mashed potatoes, a green salad, or roasted vegetables.
Q5: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes. Replace meat with lentils, mushrooms, cooked bulgur, or a plant-based ground.