Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are a comforting and delicious dish that captures the essence of traditional cabbage rolls without all the work. This easy-to-make recipe brings together tender ground beef, fragrant spices, and hearty cabbage. Perfect for busy evenings or meal prep, this dish simmers in your slow cooker, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s a dish the whole family will love!

What You’ll Need for Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this dish shine. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound (450 g) ground beef
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
• 14-ounce (400 g) can petite diced tomatoes
• 6-ounce (170 g) 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 (120 ml) water

How to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

This easy recipe is perfect for your slow cooker. Follow these simple steps to whip up a satisfying meal:

1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
2. Sauté Onions: Add the diced onion, dried thyme, dried parsley, red pepper flakes, and salt to the skillet. Cook until the onions soften, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Combine in Slow Cooker: Transfer the meat and onion mixture into your slow cooker. Then, add the chopped cabbage on top.
4. Mix the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir well until blended.
5. Pour Sauce Over Mixture: Gently pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker, mixing lightly to combine.
6. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors are well blended.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

When it comes to serving your dish, keep it simple and delicious! Here are a few ideas:

• Plate it Up: Serve the cabbage rolls in deep bowls, ensuring everyone gets a good amount of beef and cabbage, topped with a ladle of the rich tomato sauce.
• Toss on Toppings: Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
• Pairing Suggestions: This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. A side of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that tasty sauce!

Recipe Tips & Variations

Here are some helpful tips and creative ideas to make this dish your own:

• Add Different Vegetables: Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Spice It Up: Increase the red pepper flakes if you like a little heat, or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute Worcestershire sauce with a gluten-free alternative to easily adapt this recipe for those with dietary restrictions.

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative that works well in this recipe.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I freeze this dish?
Yes! Let the unstuffed cabbage rolls cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

This Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe is sure to become a family favorite with its rich flavors and hearty goodness. Give it a try, and enjoy a cozy meal that fills the belly and warms the soul!

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

A comforting and delicious dish capturing the essence of traditional cabbage rolls, made easy in a slow cooker. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey for a leaner option
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
• 14 ounce can petite diced tomatoes
• 6 ounce can tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce Use gluten-free alternative if needed
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adjust to taste for heat
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup water

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
2. Add the diced onion, dried thyme, dried parsley, red pepper flakes, and salt to the skillet. Cook until the onions soften, about 3-4 minutes.

Cooking

1. Transfer the meat and onion mixture into your slow cooker. Then, add the chopped cabbage on top.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir well until blended.
3. Gently pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker, mixing lightly to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors are well blended.

Notes

Serve with a dollop of sour cream or grated cheese on top. Pairs well with crusty bread or a green salad. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.