These tender cabbage rolls are a cozy fall and winter classic—light yet hearty, with a flavorful meat filling wrapped in soft leaves of Savoy cabbage. Traditionally simmered in broth or pan-fried, this air-fryer version delivers the same comfort with a lighter touch and less mess.
Savoy cabbage has a naturally sweet, delicate flavor that pairs beautifully with ground veal, parmesan, and a hint of garlic. The filling comes together quickly and cooks to perfection in the air fryer, forming a golden crust while staying juicy inside.
Whether for a weekday dinner or a comforting weekend meal, these cabbage rolls make a satisfying main course that feels both rustic and refined.
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Cabbage Rolls with Savory Meat Filling (Air Fryer Recipe)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Blanch the cabbage leaves in boiling salted water for 3–4 minutes until tender. Drain and place on a towel to cool.
- Soak the bread briefly in water or milk, then squeeze out the excess liquid.
- In a bowl, combine ground veal, softened bread, egg, grated cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix until the mixture becomes compact.
- Place a portion of filling in each cabbage leaf, fold in the sides, and roll tightly to form the rolls.
- Brush the rolls lightly with olive oil and arrange them in the air fryer basket. Cook at 355°F (180°C) for 15–20 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Serve immediately, optionally drizzled with olive oil or tomato sauce.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat in the air fryer at 320°F (160°C) until warm.
Extra Tips
To get perfectly cooked cabbage rolls, every small detail matters. The cabbage leaves should be soft and pliable after blanching; if they still feel firm or start to crack, just return them to boiling water for an extra minute. Before filling, trim or flatten the thick central rib so the leaves roll up easily without tearing.
Avoid overstuffing—adding too much filling will make it hard to seal the rolls and may cause them to open during cooking. A thin layer of extra-virgin olive oil brushed on the outside helps create even browning and a pleasantly crisp surface in the air fryer. Turn the rolls halfway through cooking to ensure they cook evenly on all sides and stay juicy inside.
Once done, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This short resting time allows the juices to settle, giving the filling a tender, well-balanced texture and flavor.
Since 2012, I’ve been sharing life through the things I love most — cooking, traveling, observing, and writing. I do it with the curiosity of someone who’s always learning, and the joy of sharing something real and heartfelt
