If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish with rich Italian flavors, these Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are just the ticket! Tender cabbage leaves are wrapped around a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, Parmesan, and aromatic herbs, then simmered in a robust tomato sauce until everything is perfectly tender and infused with flavor. It’s like the ultimate Italian comfort food—hearty, satisfying, and bursting with bold, zesty goodness.

Perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prepping ahead of a busy week, these cabbage rolls are sure to become a new favorite. Let’s get rolling! 😉

Why You’ll Love These Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Flavor-Packed: Classic Italian herbs, Parmesan cheese, and a savory tomato sauce make every bite delicious.
• Comfort Food Perfection: Hearty, filling, and soul-warming—ideal for cozy dinners.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or freezing for later.
• Nutritious & Satisfying: A balanced meal with protein, veggies, and grains all in one.

What Do They Taste Like? 🤤

Imagine tender cabbage leaves giving way to a juicy, flavorful filling of ground beef, nutty Parmesan, and perfectly cooked rice. The garlic and onions add aromatic depth, while the rich tomato sauce—seasoned with Italian herbs—soaks into the rolls as they cook, infusing them with bold, savory flavors. Each bite is hearty, comforting, and bursting with the essence of Italian cuisine.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 large green cabbage 🥬 (about 12 leaves, blanched and softened)
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef 🥩 (lean beef works best)
• 1/2 cup cooked rice 🍚 (white or brown rice)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀 (adds nutty, savory flavor)
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion 🧅 (for aromatic depth)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄 (for that classic Italian kick)
• 1 large egg 🥚 (helps bind the filling)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 🌿 (a blend of oregano, basil, and thyme)
• Salt and black pepper to taste 🧂

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 cups crushed tomatoes 🍅 (or passata for a smoother texture)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil 🫒
• 1 clove garlic, minced 🧄
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano 🌿
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat) 🌶️
• Salt and black pepper to taste 🧂
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish 🌱

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot (for blanching cabbage)
• Mixing bowls
• Skillet (for sautéing onions/garlic)
• 9×13-inch baking dish or large casserole dish
• Aluminum foil (for covering during baking)

How to Make Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
2. Carefully remove the core of the cabbage with a sharp knife.
3. Gently peel off 12 large, intact leaves.
4. Blanch the cabbage leaves in the boiling water for 2–3 minutes until softened and pliable.
5. Transfer to a bowl of ice water to cool, then drain and pat dry with paper towels.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a small skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions until translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Let cool slightly.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, Parmesan cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, sautéed onions and garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until everything is evenly combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the filling tough.

Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce

1. In the same skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer for 5–7 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

1. Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a clean surface.
2. Place 2–3 tablespoons of the filling in the center of the leaf.
3. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll from the stem end to enclose the filling like a burrito.
4. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and filling.

Step 5: Bake

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish.
4. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top, covering the rolls completely.
5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 45–50 minutes, until the rolls are tender and the filling is cooked through.
6. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to slightly thicken the sauce.

Step 6: Serve

Let the cabbage rolls rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley, and sprinkle with extra Parmesan if desired.

Tips for Perfect Cabbage Rolls

• Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can cause the rolls to burst while cooking.
• Blanch the Cabbage: Softened cabbage leaves are easier to roll without tearing.
• Use Day-Old Rice: It holds up better in the filling without becoming mushy.
• Let Them Rest: Allow the rolls to cool slightly before serving to let the flavors settle.

What to Serve with Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Crusty Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up the rich tomato sauce.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh contrast to the hearty rolls.
• Roasted Vegetables: Such as zucchini, carrots, or bell peppers.
• Parmesan Polenta: Creamy and cheesy to complement the savory rolls.

How to Store & Reheat

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Place cooled rolls in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C), covered with foil, for 20–25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a different meat?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, pork, or a combination of meats work well.

2. Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace the ground beef with cooked lentils, quinoa, or a plant-based ground meat substitute.

3. Do I have to cook the rice before stuffing?
Yes, for best results. Using cooked rice ensures even texture and prevents undercooked grains inside the rolls.

4. Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes! Assemble the rolls a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Just bake when ready to serve.

Wrapping It Up 🇮🇹🥬🍅

These Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are the perfect blend of comforting, hearty, and flavorful. With a savory beef and rice filling wrapped in tender cabbage and smothered in rich tomato sauce, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner, meal prepping, or hosting a cozy get-together, these rolls are sure to impress.

If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a review, snap a photo, and share it on Pinterest or Instagram—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. 😍

Craving More Italian Comfort Food?

• Classic Baked Ziti with Ricotta 🇮🇹
• Homemade Meat Lasagna 🍝
• Eggplant Parmesan Casserole 🍆

Buon appetito, and enjoy every savory, saucy bite! 😊🍽️✨