Tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mixture of seasoned ground beef, rice, and herbs, then baked in a rich tomato sauce until perfectly tender. These Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are comforting, hearty, and packed with classic homestyle flavor.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Rolls
- 1 large green cabbage (about 12 large leaves)
- 1 pound (450 g) lean ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Tomato Sauce
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head into the boiling water.
Cook for 5–8 minutes, gently peeling away the leaves as they soften.
Remove 12 large leaves and allow them to cool. Trim the thick center rib if necessary.
Step 2: Make the Filling
In a large bowl combine:
- Ground beef
- Cooked rice
- Onion
- Garlic
- Egg
- Parmesan cheese
- Italian seasoning
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Rolls
Place a cabbage leaf on a flat surface.
Add about 2–3 tablespoons of filling near the stem end.
Fold in the sides and roll tightly to enclose the filling.
Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
In a bowl, mix together:
- Marinara sauce
- Tomato sauce
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- Garlic powder
Spread a thin layer of sauce over the bottom of a baking dish.
Step 5: Arrange and Bake
Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the baking dish.
Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the rolls.
Cover tightly with foil.
Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 60–75 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is fully cooked.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Flavor & Texture
These stuffed cabbage rolls offer:
- Tender cabbage leaves
- Rich, savory beef filling
- Classic Italian herb flavors
- Hearty tomato sauce
- Comfort-food goodness in every bite
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Mashed potatoes
- Italian green beans
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
They also freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Final Thoughts
Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are a timeless comfort-food classic. Filled with seasoned beef and rice, baked in a flavorful tomato sauce, and finished with fresh herbs, this recipe is perfect for family dinners, special gatherings, or make-ahead meals.