Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Italian-style stuffed cabbage rolls are a comforting and hearty dish with tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a flavorful filling of ground beef, rice, herbs, and Parmesan cheese, then simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner and can be made ahead of time for convenience.

Ingredients
For the cabbage rolls:
1 large green cabbage (about 12 leaves)
1 pound (450 g) ground beef
1/2 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large egg
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the sauce:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 small onion, minced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup tomato sauce
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
1/2 cup water or broth
Instructions
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the cabbage leaves
Bring a large pan of salted water to a boil.
Remove the core of the cabbage and carefully peel off about 12 whole leaves.
Blanch the leaves in boiling water for 2–3 minutes until they become pliable.
Cool in an ice bath, drain and pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Make the filling