Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

If you’re looking to bring the warmth of a traditional Italian kitchen into your home, Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are the answer. Picture tender cabbage leaves packed with a savory mixture of ground beef, Italian sausage, rice, and fresh herbs, all nestled in marinara sauce and baked until meltingly delicious. Each bite is full of flavor, cozy comfort, and a bit of nostalgia—like a hug from Nonna herself. This is the kind of dish that transforms a simple weeknight into a special occasion and leaves everyone at the table reaching for seconds.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every great recipe begins with honest, humble ingredients, and these are no exception. The Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe leans on a few essentials that work together to create layers of savoriness, richness, and texture you’ll love.

• Green cabbage: Blanched leaves become supple wrappers that hold everything together and add a delicate, earthy note.
• Ground beef: Lends hearty flavor and classic texture, forming the backbone of the filling.
• Italian sausage: Adds a punch of spice and depth—choose sweet or spicy depending on your taste.
• Cooked white rice: Gives the filling a gentle, comforting base and soaks up all those savory juices.
• Finely chopped onion: Sweetens as it cooks, blending into the mix for balance and aroma.
• Minced garlic: Essential for that unmistakable Italian warmth and depth.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a subtle saltiness and nuttiness—don’t skip it!
• Dried oregano: Infuses the rolls with a gentle herbal touch that ties the filling together.
• Salt and black pepper: Enhance all the natural flavors; adjust to your preference.
• Egg: Acts as a binder, keeping the filling beautifully cohesive.
• Marinara sauce: Wraps everything in a tangy, herby blanket and keeps the rolls moist.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a glorious golden topping that’s pure comfort.
• Chopped parsley: Optional, but its fresh green pop is the perfect final flourish.

How to Make Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil. Carefully remove 12 to 14 large leaves from your cabbage, trying not to tear them. Blanch the leaves for 2–3 minutes—just enough to soften them so they’ll roll without cracking. Drain and set them aside to cool while you work on the filling.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a big mixing bowl, gently combine the ground beef, Italian sausage, cooked rice, onion, garlic, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, pepper, and egg. Use your hands or a large spoon to mix just until everything’s incorporated. Over-mixing will toughen the meat, so go easy—you want a tender, juicy center for your Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls.

Step 3: Form the Rolls

Lay one blanched cabbage leaf flat, thick stem closest to you. Place about 1/4 to 1/3 cup of filling in the center. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll it up tightly like a burrito. Keep going until you’ve used all your filling and leaves, making sure each roll is snug but not bursting.

Step 4: Layer and Sauce

Spread 1 cup of your favorite marinara sauce across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Nestle the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish, fitting them in close together. Spoon the rest of the marinara sauce generously over the top—they’ll soak up flavor as they bake!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Cover the baking dish tightly with foil, trapping all the moisture inside. Bake at 375°F for 50–60 minutes so the rolls come out cooked through and unbelievably tender. Uncover, sprinkle mozzarella cheese all over, and return to the oven for another 10 minutes until the top is melted, golden, and bubbling.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the cheese is melted to perfection, finish your Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with a flourish of fresh chopped parsley. Let them cool for a few minutes before serving so all the delicious juices settle back into the rolls.

How to Serve Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Garnishes

The classics always shine here: a sprinkle of bright chopped parsley and a dusting of extra Parmesan right before serving wake up every flavor. If you’re feeling fancy, a drizzle of fruity olive oil adds that special Italian touch and a glisten your guests will notice.

Side Dishes

These rolls make a fantastic main course, so pair them with garlic bread for sopping up extra sauce, a simple arugula or Caesar salad for crunch, or roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers for color and sweetness. You’ll have a meal that’s both hearty and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try arranging your Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls on a big platter with alternating stripes of marinara and fresh basil leaves for a truly festive look. Or, portion individual servings in shallow bowls topped with extra sauce and a flourish of grated cheese for that trattoria vibe at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls keep well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Store them in an airtight container, making sure they’re completely cooled before refrigerating to preserve their texture and flavor.

Freezing

These rolls are fantastic for meal prep—just assemble, bake, and let them cool completely. Wrap each roll in foil and transfer to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to three months and can be thawed overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To get your Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls piping hot again, place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F until heated through (about 20 minutes). Or, reheat individual portions in the microwave for a super quick, satisfying meal—the rolls stay moist thanks to the generous marinara.

FAQs

Can I use a different meat in the filling?

Absolutely! Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or even a mix of your favorites. Just be sure the meat is fully cooked through after baking for food safety.

How do I prevent the cabbage leaves from tearing?

Blanching the cabbage leaves is essential—they’ll become soft and pliable, making it easier to roll without tearing. If a leaf rips, simply overlap two smaller leaves to create a patch before filling.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are naturally gluten-free as written. Just double check your marinara sauce label to ensure there’s nothing sneaky added.

Can I prepare the rolls in advance?

Definitely. Assemble the rolls up to a day ahead and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This makes dinner party prep or weeknight meals extra easy.

What can I do if I have extra filling?

If you end up with a little extra filling, shape it into mini meatballs and bake them alongside the cabbage rolls, nestled in a bit of extra sauce. A tasty little bonus!

Final Thoughts

Sharing Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls is like sending a bit of comfort and tradition from your kitchen straight to the table. Whether you’re making these for family, guests, or yourself, this recipe delivers all the rich flavors and cozy vibes of classic Italian home cooking. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new favorite in your rotation!

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