If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, flavorful dish that brings a taste of Louisiana right to your kitchen, this Creole Cabbage Rolls Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Tender cabbage leaves filled with a savory blend of seasoned ground beef and rice, all simmered gently in a zesty Creole tomato sauce, create a dish bursting with rich, smoky, and mildly spicy notes. Each bite delivers that perfect harmony of textures and spices, making this recipe a wonderful way to enjoy soul-satisfying, home-cooked Creole cuisine in the most delightful way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet vital for building the layers of flavor and texture in this dish. From the fresh cabbage leaves providing a mild, crunchy base to the aromatic spices that give the filling its Creole character, each component plays an essential role.
- 1 medium head of cabbage: The star ingredient for wrapping up that savory filling in tender, yet sturdy leaves.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a hearty, rich base packed with protein and flavor.
- 1/2 cup cooked rice: Helps bind the filling and adds a soft, comforting texture.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the mixture with a punch of aromatic intensity.
- 1 tsp Creole seasoning: Brings that quintessential Louisiana spice blend that wakes up every bite.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Gives a subtle smoky nuance without overpowering the dish.
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional): Offers just a hint of heat for those who like it a little spicy.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes: Provides fresh acidity and a juicy base for the sauce.
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce: Thickens and enriches the tomato flavor in the simmering sauce.
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds a savory, umami depth that complements the beef beautifully.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: Keeps the cabbage rolls moist and enhances the overall richness of the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and bring out the flavors.
- Olive oil for sautéing: Helps soften the onions and garlic while adding a subtle fruity note.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): A splash of bright herbal freshness to finish the dish.
How to Make Creole Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully peel the cabbage leaves one by one, trimming out the thick stem from each leaf. Blanch the leaves in the boiling water for 2 to 3 minutes until they are just tender and pliable. This makes rolling easier and ensures the leaves cook evenly while simmering later. Drain and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In a skillet, warm a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking gently until they become soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes. This initial step builds the aromatic foundation for the meat filling.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef and Season
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Break it up with a wooden spoon and cook until nicely browned all over. Stir in the Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, optional cayenne, salt, and pepper. These spices bring that unmistakable Creole warmth and complexity.
Step 4: Combine the Filling
Mix the cooked rice into the beef mixture, ensuring everything is evenly combined. The rice helps provide a tender texture and soaks up the delicious seasonings, making every bite satisfying.
Step 5: Roll Up the Cabbage Leaves
Take each softened cabbage leaf and place a few spoonfuls of the meat and rice filling in the center. Fold in the sides and roll the leaf tightly from stem to tip to secure the filling inside. This technique keeps the rolls intact while cooking.
Step 6: Prepare the Simmering Sauce
In a large pot, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat—this sauce will infuse the rolls with moisture and flavor as they cook.
Step 7: Cook the Cabbage Rolls
Place the cabbage rolls seam-side down into the simmering sauce in the pot. Cover and let them simmer gently for 30 to 40 minutes. During this time, the flavors will meld beautifully, and the cabbage will become tender but still hold together.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the hot cabbage rolls. This pop of green adds a fresh note and makes the dish look as inviting as it tastes.
How to Serve Creole Cabbage Rolls Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is my go-to because it adds brightness and a touch of color. You could also try a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar or a drizzle of Creole mustard for an added zing. Garnishing elevates the dish visually and enhances the flavor profile subtly.
Side Dishes
A rustic crusty bread is perfect for mopping up the rich tomato sauce. For a heartier meal, fluffy white or brown rice complements the cabbage rolls and soaks up every drop of those Creole flavors. A crisp green salad or steamed vegetables also provide a lovely, light contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to impress at a dinner party, serve individual cabbage rolls on a bed of rice with a drizzle of extra sauce ladled artfully over the top. Another fun idea is to cut the rolls into bite-sized pinwheels for easy finger food at gatherings. This Creole Cabbage Rolls Recipe is flexible and sure to wow guests no matter how you plate it.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making your next meal even more delicious.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to keep it longer. Place the rolls and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, covered, until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave leftovers covered in short bursts, stirring the sauce a few times to heat evenly. Avoid high heat to keep the cabbage tender and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can work nicely for a lighter version; just adjust the seasoning to keep that bold Creole flavor.
Is it necessary to blanch the cabbage leaves?
Yes, blanching softens the leaves making them flexible enough to roll without tearing, and it speeds up the cooking process during simmering.
How spicy is this Creole Cabbage Rolls Recipe?
The heat level is mild to moderate, thanks to the Creole seasoning and optional cayenne. You can adjust the cayenne pepper or omit it to suit your spice preference.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the ground beef with a mix of cooked lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based ground meat alternatives, and use vegetable broth for the sauce.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat slowly on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water, covered, to retain moisture and keep the cabbage tender.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Creole Cabbage Rolls Recipe enough if you’re craving a dish that’s hearty, flavorful, and just downright comforting. It’s a wonderful way to bring a little Cajun-inspired warmth and spice to your dinner table, guaranteed to make anyone feel right at home. So grab that cabbage and get rolling—your taste buds will thank you!
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Creole Cabbage Rolls Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
These Creole Cabbage Rolls are a flavorful twist on a classic comfort food, featuring seasoned ground beef and rice wrapped in tender cabbage leaves, simmered in a rich Creole tomato sauce. Perfect for a hearty family meal, this recipe blends bold spices with tender textures for a satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Cabbage Rolls
- 1 medium head of cabbage
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1/2 cup cooked rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Creole seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
Garnish
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the cabbage leaves: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Carefully separate the cabbage leaves and cut out the tough stems at the base. Blanch the leaves in the boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they become softened but still pliable. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Cook the beef filling: Add the ground beef to the skillet with onions and garlic. Cook until browned, breaking the meat apart with a spoon. Stir in Creole seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper if using, salt, and pepper. Mix in the cooked rice until everything is well combined. Remove from the heat.
- Assemble the rolls: Place a few spoonfuls of the beef and rice mixture in the center of each cabbage leaf. Roll the leaves tightly, folding in the sides to secure the filling inside, forming neat rolls.
- Prepare the sauce: In a large pot, combine diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Simmer the cabbage rolls: Carefully place the stuffed cabbage rolls seam-side down into the simmering sauce. Cover the pot and cook for 30-40 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Serve and garnish: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. These rolls can be enjoyed on their own or with a side of crusty bread or additional rice for a complete meal.
Notes
- Blanching the cabbage leaves softens them, making them easier to roll without tearing.
- Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to control the heat level according to personal preference.
- Make sure to seal the rolls well to prevent the filling from spilling during simmering.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with cooked lentils or textured vegetable protein.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Creole
