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Giada Cabbage Rolls

Giada Cabbage Rolls
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Tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a savory blend of ground beef, rice, and aromatic vegetables, simmered in a rich tomato sauce until meltingly soft. These Italian-inspired cabbage rolls are hearty, comforting, and perfect for a satisfying family meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head green cabbage (about 2 lbs)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced (about 1 cup)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb lean ground beef (90/10)
  • 1/2 cup uncooked white rice (such as Arborio)
  • 1 large egg, lightly beaten
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 cups tomato sauce (canned, no salt added)
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Using a sharp paring knife, cut out the core of the cabbage in a cone shape to release the leaves. Gently peel off 12 large outer leaves, being careful not to tear them. If leaves are stiff, blanch them in the boiling water for 2–3 minutes until pliable; drain and set aside to cool.
  2. While the cabbage cools, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers. Add the finely diced onion and cook, stirring frequently, until translucent and softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, then remove from heat.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked onion and garlic, uncooked rice, beaten egg, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands until just incorporated—overmixing will make the filling dense.
  4. Lay one parboiled cabbage leaf flat on a cutting board with the stem end facing you. Use a sharp knife to shave the thick central rib flat so the leaf is easier to roll. Place about 2 tablespoons of filling near the stem edge, then fold the sides over and roll tightly into a cylinder, tucking in the ends as you go. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.
  5. In a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or large pot, whisk together the tomato sauce, chicken broth, tomato paste, and sugar until smooth. Arrange the cabbage rolls snugly, seam side down, in a single layer in the sauce. If you have extra sauce, pour it over the top.
  6. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer—small bubbles should break the surface but not aggressively. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly with a lid, and cook for 60 minutes. Check halfway through; if the liquid reduces too much, add a splash of water or broth.
  7. After 60 minutes, test a cabbage roll for tenderness by piercing the center with a fork—the cabbage should be very soft and the rice fully cooked. If not tender, continue cooking for another 10–15 minutes. Remove from heat.
  8. Let the cabbage rolls rest, covered, for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the rolls to firm up slightly. Serve 3 rolls per person, spooning extra sauce over the top. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese immediately before serving.
  9. For a deeper flavor, you can finish the dish by transferring the pot to an oven preheated to 350°F (177°C) and baking uncovered for 15–20 minutes after the stovetop simmer, allowing the tops to brown slightly. This is optional but recommended for a richer taste.

Notes

Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, arrange cooled rolls in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then place in a covered baking dish with a little extra tomato sauce and warm in a 350°F (177°C) oven for 20–25 minutes, or until hot throughout. Alternatively, microwave individual portions on high for 2–3 minutes.

Nutrition

Keywords: cabbage rolls, Italian cabbage rolls, stuffed cabbage, giada cabbage rolls, ground beef recipe, tomato sauce, comfort food, hearty dinner, weeknight meal, cabbage recipe, stuffed vegetables

Find it online: https://giadacooks.com/giada-cabbage-rolls/