Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

why make this recipe

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are a fantastic dish for busy days. This recipe gives you all the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the hassle of rolling each one. You simply throw everything into the slow cooker, and it does all the work for you. You get a hearty, delicious meal that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prepping for the week. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate healthy vegetables and lean protein into your diet.

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 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 this dish hot, directly from the slow cooker. You can enjoy it on its own or serve it with a side of crusty bread or steamed rice. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top can add a nice touch.

how to store Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it in portions for a quick meal later. Just make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in the freezer.

tips to make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. A little extra red pepper can add more heat.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the amount of water.
• Adding some cooked rice to the slow cooker can make the dish even heartier.

variation

You can easily switch out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken to make it a bit lighter. Another variation is to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Just put them in the slow cooker in the morning and turn it on.

Can I use frozen ground beef?
Yes, but you should always thaw it first for even cooking. Browning it slightly before adding it to the slow cooker is recommended.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, but it’s important to check your Worcestershire sauce for any gluten-containing additives.

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

A comforting dish that offers all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the hassle of making each one. Perfect for busy days, family dinners, or meal prepping.

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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 Feel free to substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
• 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 Check for gluten-free if needed.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adjust for desired spiciness.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup water Reduce for thicker sauce.

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 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

Serve hot directly from the slow cooker. Pair well with crusty bread or steamed rice. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a nice touch. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days, or freeze in portions after cooling.