Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Comfort Food Heaven Awaits

Ever walked into a cozy kitchen and been hit by the warm, savory aroma of simmering goodness? That’s exactly what you get with these Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls! This recipe is a delightful twist on a classic, combining all the familiar flavors you love into a simple, one-pot wonder. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s bound to become your go-to comfort food!

Why Make This Recipe

Who doesn’t love a meal that practically cooks itself? Here are a few reasons you’ll enjoy making this dish:

• Easy Cleanup: Once you toss everything in the slow cooker, you can kick back and relax. How often does dinner come with a built-in vacation?
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the cozy, hearty flavors—it’s like a hug in a bowl!
• Affordable: It uses simple, everyday ingredients that won’t break the bank. Who said delicious has to be expensive?

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff—just these basics!

• 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

Let’s break it down into easy steps:

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s slightly pink. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add diced onion and seasonings to the skillet; cook until the onions soften and get all friendly with the beef.
3. Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker, adding the chopped cabbage on top.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir it all up until it’s well mixed.
5. Pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker. Mix gently—don’t want to wake the cabbage too much!
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Go ahead and take that well-deserved nap now!

How to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls (Overview)

Making these unstuffed cabbage rolls is as easy as pie—well, easier than pie, actually! Start by browning your ground beef and sautéing some onions. Transfer it all into the slow cooker with the chopped cabbage. Whip up a quick sauce with tomatoes and spices, pour it in, and let the magic happen on low heat. Pro tip: Don’t rush the cooking! Letting it bubble away slowly develops the flavor.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Picture this: a steaming bowl of hearty cabbage rolls, vibrant red sauce bubbling, and fragrant herbs wafting through your kitchen. Serve them in a deep dish, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for that extra creamy touch. Pair with crusty bread to soak up every last drop—because no one should leave anything behind!

How to Store Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Got leftovers? Lucky you! This dish stays fresh in the fridge for about 4-5 days. Need to save it for later? Freeze it for up to 3 months in an airtight container. For reheating, simply microwave until heated through, or warm gently on the stove. It’ll be like having a fresh batch all over again!

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

1. Timing is key. If you have a little more time, consider cooking it on low for the full 8 hours for even softer cabbage.
2. Beef swaps: Ground turkey or chicken works beautifully if you want a leaner option.
3. Texture tweak: For added crunch, toss in some chopped bell peppers with the cabbage.
4. Spicy twist: Up the red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat!
5. Herb variety: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor. Use what you have on hand!

Variation

Feeling adventurous? Make it vegan by swapping the ground beef for lentils or mushrooms. You can also throw in some beans for extra protein. Don’t forget to add your favorite spices to keep the flavors vibrant!

FAQs

Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! You can prep everything a day in advance, pop it in the fridge, and let the slow cooker do the work the next day.

What can I substitute for ground beef?
You can use ground turkey, lentils, or even crumbled tofu for a meatless version.

Can I freeze it?
Yes! Just let it cool completely before freezing in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Now, are you ready to enjoy this cozy, hearty dish? Your taste buds will thank you!
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

A delightful twist on classic cabbage rolls, this slow cooker recipe combines familiar flavors into a simple, hearty dish that cooks itself.

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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: Comfort Food

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef You can also use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped Consider cooking longer for softer cabbage.
• 14 ounce can petite diced tomatoes
• 6 ounce can tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Add more for extra heat.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup water

Method

 

Preparation

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s slightly pink. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add diced onion and seasonings to the skillet; cook until the onions soften.
3. Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker, adding the chopped cabbage on top.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir until well mixed.
5. Pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker. Mix gently.

Cooking

1. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Notes

Serve garnished with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream. Great with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Store in the fridge for 4-5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.