Description
Your High-Protein Ingredient Checklist. Smart swaps and lean turkey keep these stuffed cabbage rolls hearty, flavorful, and low in carbs—finished in under an hour.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Cabbage & Filling
- 1 head medium cabbage (use 8-10 large outer leaves for rolling)
- 1 lb lean ground turkey (93% lean (or ground chicken))
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese)
- 1 large egg (binder)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 Tbsp olive oil (for searing)
For the Seasonings & Sauce
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) (for gentle heat)
- 1 cup sugar-free tomato sauce (for baking)
To Serve (Optional)
- extra Parmesan, basil or parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep cabbage leaves: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch 8–10 large outer cabbage leaves for 1–2 minutes until pliable. Drain well and cool on towels.
- Make filling: In a bowl, combine ground turkey, ricotta, egg, Parmesan, garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix just until combined.
- Assemble rolls: Place 2–3 heaping tablespoons filling near the base of each leaf. Fold bottom over filling, tuck in sides like a burrito, and roll tightly. Repeat.
- Sear for flavor (optional): Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high. Sear rolls seam-side down 2–3 minutes per side until lightly golden.
- Bake in sauce: If needed, transfer to a baking dish. Pour tomato sauce over/around rolls. Cover tightly with foil and bake at 190°C (375°F) for 25–30 minutes, until cooked through and bubbly.
- Garnish & serve: Rest a few minutes. Sprinkle with extra Parmesan and chopped basil or parsley. Serve warm.
Notes
The power of protein: High-protein meals can increase satiety and help maintain stable energy. These rolls deliver ~30g protein per serving with minimal carbs.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 8
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 30
