Creole Cabbage Rolls
Savory Creole Cabbage Rolls feature seasoned ground beef and rice wrapped in tender cabbage leaves, simmered in a flavorful tomato honey sauce—perfect for comforting family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Core the cabbage and place it in boiling salted water until 12 outer leaves can be separated.
- Set aside the leaves and reserve the water.
- Chop the remaining cabbage.
- Mix ground beef, cooked rice, minced onion, salt, pepper, Tabasco, and egg.
- Divide the mixture into 12 parts and place each in a cabbage leaf, folding sides and rolling up to make rolls.
- Place the cabbage rolls seam side down in a 2-quart casserole on top of the chopped cabbage.
- Saute crushed garlic, chopped onion, and chopped green bell pepper in butter for 2 to 3 minutes.
- Add chopped tomatoes, honey, and lemon juice to the skillet.
- Simmer gently for 10 minutes, then stir in 1 cup of cabbage water and spoon the sauce over the cabbage rolls.
- Cover and bake at 350°F for about 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some smoked paprika to the meat mixture or using ground turkey instead of beef for a lighter option. If you don’t have a head of cabbage, collard greens can be a great substitute. Make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of greens used. Also, don’t skip the honey; it balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cabbage rolls with a side of crusty bread or a refreshing salad for a complete meal. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce can enhance the flavors even more. These rolls pair beautifully with Jambalaya (Rice Cooker)(Club Member: Lee Higginbotham) for a hearty dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cabbage rolls can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a baking dish with a splash of water, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave them, covered, for about 2-3 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creole Cabbage Rolls contains roughly 1138 calories, with 9g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 82g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1396mg per serving (61% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cabbage rolls ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cabbage rolls a day in advance. Just assemble them and store them in the refrigerator covered with plastic wrap. When ready to cook, simply add the sauce and bake as directed. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter or vegetarian option. Adjust the cooking time slightly if using a different meat to ensure it's fully cooked.
How do I know when the cabbage rolls are done?
The cabbage rolls are done when they are heated through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The cabbage should be tender but not falling apart. If you notice the sauce bubbling, it’s a good sign that they’re ready!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).