pigs in a blanket cabbage

3 min read 14-01-2025

Meta Description: Discover a surprisingly delicious twist on a classic! This recipe for Pigs in a Blanket Cabbage combines savory sausage, tender cabbage, and a rich, flavorful sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or a special occasion. Learn how to make this unique and satisfying dish today! (158 characters)

Introduction

Forget everything you think you know about cabbage. This isn't your grandma's boiled cabbage. We're talking Pigs in a Blanket Cabbage, a delightful fusion of savory sausage, tender cabbage, and a rich, flavorful sauce that will redefine your expectations. This recipe is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to be amazed!

What You'll Need: Ingredients for Pigs in a Blanket Cabbage

For the "Pigs":

1 lb. breakfast sausage, casings removed (mild or spicy, your choice!)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

For the "Blanket":

1 medium head of green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper

For the Sauce:

½ cup chicken broth
¼ cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions: Making Pigs in a Blanket Cabbage

Step 1: Preparing the Sausage Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, crumble the breakfast sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Layering the Cabbage

While the sausage cools, prepare your cabbage. You can use a mandoline slicer for even thinner slices, or a sharp knife will work perfectly well.
In a large bowl, toss the sliced cabbage with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Assembling the "Pigs in a Blanket"

On a large baking sheet, lay out a layer of cabbage leaves, slightly overlapping.
Spoon a small amount of the cooled sausage mixture onto each cabbage leaf.
Roll the cabbage leaf tightly around the sausage, creating a little "pig in a blanket".
Repeat with remaining cabbage leaves and sausage mixture.

Step 4: Making the Sauce and Baking

In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, and smoked paprika.
Pour the sauce evenly over the cabbage rolls.
Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the sauce has thickened slightly.

Step 5: Serving

Serve your Pigs in a Blanket Cabbage hot, and enjoy! This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a simple side salad.

Tips & Variations

Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage mixture or the sauce for extra heat.
Add some sweetness: Include a diced apple or pear to the sausage filling for a touch of sweetness.
Use different sausage: Try Italian sausage, chorizo, or even ground turkey for a different flavor profile.
Make it a complete meal: Add other vegetables to the baking sheet, such as carrots, potatoes, or Brussels sprouts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the cabbage rolls ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

What type of cabbage is best?

Green cabbage works best for this recipe, but you can experiment with savoy cabbage or red cabbage if you like.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, Pigs in a Blanket Cabbage freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Pigs in a Blanket Cabbage is a unique and delicious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. It's a fun twist on a classic comfort food, and the flavorful combination of sausage, cabbage, and sauce is simply irresistible. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a truly unforgettable meal! Remember to share your creations with us! Let us know how your Pigs in a Blanket Cabbage turned out!