Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

#### For the Cabbage Rolls:

– 1 large green cabbage (about 12 leaves)

– 1 pound (450g) 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 egg (optional, for binding)

– Salt and pepper to taste

#### For the Sauce:

– 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

– Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

### Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cabbage:

– Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the whole head into the boiling water. Boil for about 2-3 minutes until the outer leaves start to soften.

– Carefully peel off the softened leaves and set them aside. Repeat until you have about 12 leaves. You may need to return the cabbage to the water to soften more leaves if needed.

2. Make the Filling:

– In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, cooked rice, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, and egg (if using). Season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.

3. Assemble the Rolls:

– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

– Take a cabbage leaf and place about 2-3 tablespoons of the filling at the base of the leaf. Fold the sides over the filling and roll it up tightly from the bottom to the top. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.

4. Prepare the Sauce:

– In a saucepan, combine the marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Heat over medium heat until warmed through.

5. Bake the Rolls:

– Spread a thin layer of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down in the dish. Pour the remaining sauce over the top of the rolls.

– Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until the rolls are heated through and the sauce is bubbly.

6. Serve:

– Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Italian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls!

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