Creole Cabbage Rolls Recipe
If you have a soft spot for comforting, hearty dishes that offer a burst of vibrant flavors, you’re going to adore this Creole Cabbage Rolls Recipe. Imagine tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory blend of ground beef, Italian sausage, and perfectly seasoned Spanish rice, all bathed in a rich tomato sauce that gives each bite a tangy, soulful Creole kick. This recipe brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels both nostalgic and fresh, making it a perfect meal to share with family or friends at any cozy gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s beautiful about this recipe is how uncomplicated the ingredient list is—each item plays a vital role in building the dish’s unique texture and flavor profile. From the juicy meat blend to the aromatic Spanish rice and the tender cabbage leaves, every component adds its own special touch.
- 1 tablespoon oil: Used for sautéing the meat; a neutral oil keeps the flavors balanced.
- 1/2 pound ground beef: Provides a hearty and savory base with rich depth.
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage: Adds spice and extra moisture, complementing the beef perfectly.
- 1 1/2 cups water: Essential for cooking the rice and melding flavors together.
- 1 can (14 1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes: Brings acidity and freshness to the filling mix.
- 1 package Zatarain’s® Spanish Rice: This seasoned rice is key for a Creole-inspired flair and fulfilling texture.
- 1 head cabbage, core removed: Leaves act as the natural wrappers, tender yet sturdy enough for rolling.
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce: Creates a luscious, tangy sauce that keeps the rolls moist and flavorful.
How to Make Creole Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Meat and Rice Filling
Start by heating the oil in a large skillet on medium-high heat, then add the ground beef and Italian sausage. Cook them until there’s no pink left, stirring often to break up any clumps. Next, introduce the water, diced tomatoes, and the Zatarain’s® Spanish Rice mix. Bring this mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and let the rice cook slowly for about 25 minutes, until tender and infused with all those wonderful flavors. Remove from heat and allow it to sit for five minutes to thicken and absorb every bit of zest.
Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
While your filling is cooking, fill a large saucepot with 4 quarts of water and bring it to a rolling boil. Submerge your whole cabbage head, stem side down, into the boiling water. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and let it soften for about 20 minutes. Carefully remove the cabbage and start peeling away those outer leaves one by one, returning the leftover cabbage to the pot to soften more leaves if needed. You’re aiming for pliable leaves that can wrap around your filling without tearing—a little patience here pays off big in the final roll texture.
Step 3: Roll and Assemble the Cabbage Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Lay each softened cabbage leaf flat and spoon about one-third cup of the savory rice stuffing near the thick core end of each leaf. Fold the sides over to encase the filling and then roll it up tightly, just like a little gift. Place each roll in a 13×9-inch baking dish with the seam side down to keep the rolls neatly closed during baking. Once all are snugly nestled, pour the tomato sauce evenly over the rolls, ensuring every little bundle gets coated with that rich sauce.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop the baking dish into the oven and bake your Creole Cabbage Rolls for 45 minutes. This slow bake allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the cabbage rolls to become tender and juicy. When done, your kitchen will be filled with a warm, inviting aroma that perfectly captures the essence of Creole cooking.
How to Serve Creole Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your Creole Cabbage Rolls with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onions. Both add a pop of color and a fresh bite that balances the richness of the dish. A dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of hot sauce can also amp up the creaminess or heat, catering perfectly to your palate.
Side Dishes
These rolls shine on their own but pairing them with classic Southern sides makes for a memorable meal. Creamy mashed potatoes, buttery cornbread, or even a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette will complement the rolls beautifully and round out your plate with texture and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the rolls into pinwheels and serve them as appetizers at your next dinner party. You can also layer the rolls in a casserole dish topped with extra cheese and bake for a gratin-style finish. Either way, this Creole Cabbage Rolls Recipe adapts well to your presentation creativity, impressing guests and family alike.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making for even tastier meals the next day. Just be sure to keep them covered in sauce to avoid drying out.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully. Arrange the rolls in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw them in the fridge overnight for best texture and taste.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the cabbage rolls with foil and bake in a 350-degree oven until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions covered with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. The tomato sauce helps keep everything succulent upon reheating.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice in the Creole Cabbage Rolls Recipe?
Absolutely! While Zatarain’s® Spanish Rice adds a nice Creole touch, you can use any long-grain rice or even brown rice if you prefer a healthier option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, swap the ground beef and sausage for plant-based protein alternatives or add more vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for a delicious vegetarian version. Use vegetable broth and ensure your rice seasoning fits your dietary preferences.
How do I know when the cabbage leaves are soft enough to roll?
The leaves should be pliable and tender but still hold their shape without tearing. If you notice they’re stiff, simply simmer a little longer until they reach this perfect balance.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Definitely! You can cook the meat and rice mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When ready, assemble and bake the cabbage rolls as usual. This makes dinner prep a snap.
What are some good seasonings to enhance the Creole flavor?
Classic Creole seasonings like paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and thyme work wonders. You can also add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to amp up depth and heat.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about a dish like this Creole Cabbage Rolls Recipe that wraps up comforting textures and bold flavors in every bite. It’s a recipe that invites both tradition and creativity, perfect for sharing stories across the dinner table. Give it a try and watch these rolls become a beloved staple in your kitchen, bringing a little taste of Creole magic to your everyday meals.
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Creole Cabbage Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 7 servings 1x
Description
Delicious and hearty Creole Cabbage Rolls filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, Italian sausage, and seasoned rice, baked in a rich tomato sauce. This comforting recipe blends traditional creole flavors with tender cabbage leaves, perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Meat and Sauce
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1/2 pound Italian sausage
- 1 1/2 cups water
- 1 can (14 1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
Grains
- 1 package Zatarain’s® Spanish Rice
Vegetables
- 1 head cabbage, core removed
Instructions
- Cook Meat and Rice Filling: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and Italian sausage; cook and stir until meat is no longer pink. Stir in water, diced tomatoes, and Zatarain’s Spanish Rice mix. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25 minutes or until rice is tender. Remove from heat and let the mixture stand for 5 minutes.
- Prepare Cabbage Leaves: While the filling cooks, bring 4 quarts of water to a boil in a large saucepot. Place the whole cabbage head, stem-side down, into the boiling water. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove the cabbage and carefully peel off the outer leaves. Return the remaining cabbage to the boiling water and simmer until outer leaves soften, repeating the process of removing softened leaves as needed until you have enough pliable leaves for rolling.
- Assemble Cabbage Rolls: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place about 1/3 cup of the rice and meat filling near the core end of each cabbage leaf. Fold the sides of the leaf over the stuffing, then tightly roll up the leaf to enclose the filling. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in a 13×9-inch baking pan and pour the tomato sauce evenly over the top.
- Bake Cabbage Rolls: Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the cabbage rolls are tender and heated through. Serve warm for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Notes
- Be gentle when removing cabbage leaves to avoid tearing them.
- Simmering the cabbage multiple times helps soften the leaves for easy rolling.
- Zatarain’s Spanish Rice mix contains seasoning, so additional salt is usually unnecessary.
- Leftover cabbage rolls can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated.
- For a spicier version, consider adding Creole seasoning or hot sauce to the filling.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Creole
