Looking for a dinner idea that’s both cozy and satisfying? Roast cabbage rice and croissants might be just what you need tonight. This hearty combo brings comfort to the table without requiring a ton of ingredients—or time.
Here’s how you can make this delicious meal step by step, even when your pantry isn’t fully stocked. You’ll get full flavor, simple techniques, and a warm dinner that’ll make you feel right at home.
Why This Meal Works
Sometimes the best dinners come from what you already have on hand.
- You don’t need fancy ingredients.
- It’s filling, flavorful, and budget-friendly.
- Easy cleanup thanks to one-pot and skillet cooking.
- Great way to use leftover veggies or meat.
Let’s get into the recipe breakdown and how you can make it shine, even on a busy weeknight.
Roast Cabbage Rice and Croissants
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Roast:
- 2.5 to 3 lbs beef chuck roast
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 large carrots, chopped
- 3 medium potatoes, quartered
- 1 yellow onion, sliced
For the Cabbage:
- 1 medium green cabbage
- 1/2 bell pepper, chopped
- 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup smoked turkey pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp paprika (optional)
For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter
- Salt to taste
For the Croissants:
- Store-bought croissants (4 to 6)
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tbsp honey
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Season and Sear the Roast
- Pat your beef roast dry with paper towels.
- Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a cast iron skillet.
- Sear the roast on all sides until browned—about 3 to 4 minutes per side.
- Transfer to a Dutch oven.
2. Braise the Roast
- Pour beef broth over the seared roast.
- Cover with lid or foil and bake at 375°F for about 1.5 hours.
- Add carrots, potatoes, and onion to the pot.
- Season lightly again with salt and pepper.
- Cover and continue roasting for another 30-45 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
3. Cook the Cabbage
- Cut the cabbage into wedges, then slice into thin strips.
- Rinse and drain well.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter.
- Add onions and bell peppers, sauté for 2 minutes.
- Toss in smoked turkey and cook another 2-3 minutes.
- Add cabbage, season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
- Stir to combine, then cover and let it steam over medium-low heat for 8-10 minutes.
Tip: Don’t overcook the cabbage—you want it tender but not mushy.
4. Make the Rice
- In a saucepan, combine rice, water or broth, butter, and a pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork when done.
5. Prep the Croissants
- Place croissants on a baking sheet.
- Brush tops with melted butter and drizzle with honey.
- Bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly golden and warm.
Plating the Meal
Here’s how to serve it all up:
- Spoon a layer of rice onto your plate.
- Top with a hearty portion of roast, carrots, potatoes, and some of the rich broth.
- Add a generous side of sautéed cabbage.
- Finish with a warm honey-butter croissant on the side.
Dinner Tips and Swaps
- Out of beef broth? Use water with bouillon or substitute with chicken broth.
- No smoked turkey? Bacon or sausage bits work great too.
- Short on time? Use a pressure cooker or Instant Pot for the roast.
- Want more spice? Add red pepper flakes to the cabbage or paprika to the roast.
What Makes This Dinner a 10/10?
Even when your seasoning cabinet is almost empty, a few basics can still bring big flavor. This meal proves that simple ingredients—when cooked with care—can turn into something special.
- The roast is juicy and tender.
- The cabbage is flavorful and slightly smoky.
- The rice absorbs all the juices and ties it all together.
- And that sweet, buttery croissant? It’s the perfect bite to end on.
Questions You Might Be Asking
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. The roast and cabbage reheat beautifully. Just warm them in the oven or on the stovetop before serving.
How do I store leftovers?
Store everything in separate airtight containers. They’ll last up to 4 days in the fridge.
Can I freeze this meal?
You can freeze the roast and cabbage, but avoid freezing the rice or croissants—they’ll lose their texture.
Ready to Try It?
This roast cabbage rice and croissants meal is more than just dinner—it’s a reminder that even with limited ingredients, you can still create something amazing.
So, what’s for dinner tonight at your house?
Try this recipe. Make it yours. And enjoy every bite.
