Hearty and Flavorful Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls You’ll Love

These Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls bring all the comfort of a classic Italian meal—with a lighter, veggie-forward twist. Tender cabbage leaves are filled with a savory mixture of lean ground meat, herbs, and rice, then simmered in a rich tomato sauce until perfectly cooked. Each bite is warm, flavorful, and deeply satisfying, making this dish perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy nights in. You get all the flavors of Italian comfort food without the heaviness.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Veggie-Wrapped Goodness – Cabbage leaves replace pasta for a low-carb, fiber-rich alternative.
Italian-Inspired Flavor – Packed with herbs, garlic, and tomato for bold, classic taste.
Light But Filling – Lean protein and wholesome ingredients keep you full without feeling weighed down.
Freezer-Friendly – Make a big batch and freeze extras for easy future meals.

Ingredients

For the Rolls:

• 6 large cabbage leaves
• ½ lb lean ground turkey or lean ground beef
• ½ cup cooked brown rice
• 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg white
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully peel off 6 large cabbage leaves. Boil them for 2–3 minutes until soft and pliable. Drain and let cool.

Make the Filling
In a bowl, combine ground meat, cooked rice, Parmesan, egg white, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Make the Sauce
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until soft. Stir in garlic, cook for another 30 seconds, then add crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes. Season to taste.

Roll and Fill
Lay out each cabbage leaf. Place about 2 heaping tablespoons of filling in the center. Fold in the sides, then roll tightly like a burrito.

Cook the Rolls
Pour a bit of sauce into the bottom of a baking dish. Place rolls seam-side down, then top with remaining sauce. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–35 minutes, until meat is fully cooked.

Serve and Enjoy
Let cool slightly before serving. Spoon extra sauce over the top and garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Roll)

Calories: 140
Protein: 13g
Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g

Tips for Success

• Use Savoy or Green Cabbage – These types are sturdy enough to roll but tender when cooked.
• Precook the Rice – It helps bind the filling and prevents a mushy texture.
• Make Ahead Friendly – Prep and roll in advance, then bake when ready to serve.
• Add Fresh Herbs – Chopped parsley or basil gives an extra layer of flavor before serving.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe brings together simple, wholesome ingredients that pack serious flavor. The cabbage replaces traditional pasta or shells for a veggie-rich base, while the lean filling and homemade sauce keep it hearty yet balanced. You won’t miss the heaviness of traditional versions—and you’ll love how satisfying each bite is.

Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls are proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be heavy. With flavorful meat, tender cabbage, and zesty tomato sauce, these rolls are a nutritious take on a timeless favorite. Serve them up for a family dinner or stash them in the freezer for a ready-to-go meal that always hits the spot.