Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

why make this recipe

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls is a simple and hearty dish that combines classic flavors without the hassle of rolling cabbage leaves. It’s perfect for busy days because you can throw everything into the slow cooker and let it do the work. This recipe is also very satisfying and can feed a crowd, making it ideal for families or gatherings.

how to make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
• 14-ounce can petite diced tomatoes
• 6-ounce can tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup water

Directions:

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until slightly pink. Drain excess fat.
2. Add diced onion and seasonings to the skillet; cook until onions soften.
3. Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker along with the chopped cabbage.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water; stir well.
5. Pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker and mix gently.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

how to serve Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Serve Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls hot, straight from the slow cooker. You can dish it up in bowls and add a sprinkle of extra parsley on top for garnish. This dish pairs well with crusty bread or rice for a complete meal.

how to store Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dish for longer storage. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

tips to make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

• For extra flavor, use ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork.
• Feel free to add additional vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for more nutrition.
• If you like it spicy, add more red pepper flakes or include some hot sauce.

variation

You can also turn this dish into a vegetarian option by using plant-based ground meat or lentils instead of ground beef. Substitute the beef with a mixture of hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant for a delicious and filling meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cabbage?
Yes, you can use frozen cabbage. Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the slow cooker.

2. How long does it take to cook on high?
If you prefer to cook on high, it will take about 3-4 hours for the dish to be ready.

3. Can I add rice to the dish?
Definitely! You can add 1 cup of uncooked rice to the slow cooker for a more filling meal. Just increase the liquid slightly to ensure the rice cooks well.

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

A simple and hearty dish combining classic flavors without the hassle of rolling cabbage leaves, perfect for busy days and feeding a crowd.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 hours hrs

Total Time 7 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef You can use ground turkey or a mix of beef and pork for extra flavor.
• 1 yellow onion diced Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 1 small head green cabbage Chopped.
• 14 ounce can petite diced tomatoes Provides moisture and flavor.
• 6 ounce can tomato paste Concentrates flavor.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce Enhances umami flavor.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme Adds herbal notes.
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley For garnish and flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adjust according to spice preference.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances flavors.
• 1/2 cup water To help with cooking.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until slightly pink. Drain excess fat.
2. Add diced onion and seasonings to the skillet; cook until onions soften.
3. Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker along with the chopped cabbage.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water; stir well.
5. Pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker and mix gently.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Notes

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer storage. This dish can also be turned into a vegetarian option by using plant-based ground meat or lentils instead of ground beef.