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Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, or "Involtini di Cavolo," are a beloved dish that embodies the essence of comfort food in Italian cuisine. With their tender cabbage leaves enveloping a savory filling, these rolls offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that make them a perfect meal for any occasion. Whether it's a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, stuffed cabbage rolls are sure to impress.

Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Discover the comforting flavors of Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, also known as Involtini di Cavolo! This delicious dish features tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory mix of ground meat, rice, and fresh herbs, topped with rich marinara sauce and oozy cheese. Perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings, these hearty rolls are sure to impress your loved ones. Try making them today for a taste of authentic Italian comfort! #CabbageRolls #ItalianCuisine #ComfortFood #CookingAtHome #Foodie
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Ingredients
  

1 large head of green cabbage

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)

1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with Italian herbs

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

Olive oil for sautéing

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Cabbage: Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head in the boiling water. Blanch the cabbage for about 2-5 minutes until the leaves are tender enough to peel away. Remove the cabbage and gently separate the leaves, setting them aside to cool.

    Make the Filling: In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to burn it.

      Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground beef (or turkey), cooked rice, sautéed onions and garlic, half of the tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until all the ingredients are well incorporated.

        Stuff the Cabbage Leaves: Take a cabbage leaf and place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling at the base of the leaf. Fold in the sides and roll it up tightly from the base to the tip to enclose the filling. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling.

          Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of the remaining tomato sauce on the bottom of a large baking dish. Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.

            Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden.

              Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your delicious Italian stuffed cabbage rolls!

                Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 4-6