Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls offer a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the hassle of actual stuffing. This comforting meal simmers patiently in the slow cooker, allowing all the ingredients to meld together beautifully, resulting in a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: 320
• Protein: 22 grams
• Carbohydrates: 20 grams
• Fat: 15 grams
• Fiber: 4 grams
• Sugar: 5 grams
• Sodium: 500 mg

Why Make This Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

This dish is an easy, satisfying option for busy weeknights. It’s simple to prepare and loaded with delicious, wholesome ingredients. With just a little stovetop work to brown the meat and saute the onions, you can have a classic comfort food ready to comfort your family. Plus, the slow cooker does all the hard work for you! The melding of flavors creates a delightful aroma throughout your home, making everyone eager to enjoy dinner.

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:

• Step 1: Preparation

  Begin by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s just slightly pink. This process not only cooks the meat but also infuses the dish with rich flavor. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish lighter.

• Step 2: Mixing

  Next, add the diced onion, dried thyme, parsley, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt to the skillet. Cook until the onions soften, about 3-4 minutes. During this time, enjoy the sizzling sounds and savory aromas filling your kitchen.

• Step 3: Layering

  Transfer the meat mixture into the slow cooker and top it with the chopped cabbage. The cabbage will cook down and blend perfectly with the other ingredients—you won’t want to skip this step!

• Step 4: Preparing the Sauce

  In a mixing bowl, combine the petite diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir well to create a smooth sauce. Pour this mixture over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker, mixing gently.

• Step 5: Cooking

  Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours. Let the flavors meld and the cabbage soften, creating a deliciously hearty meal.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Serve your unstuffed cabbage rolls hot, perhaps with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for an added pop of color. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. This dish is also delightful when served with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese.

How to Store Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Expert Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

• For a healthier alternative, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
• If you’re short on time, skip browning the meat. Just add it directly to the slow cooker, but be aware the texture might differ slightly.
• Experiment with spices by adding additional herbs like oregano or a pinch of bay leaf for extra flavor.

Delicious Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Spicy Kick: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for some heat.
• Cheesy Twist: Stir in some shredded cheese towards the end of cooking for a gooey, cheesy delight.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use frozen cabbage?
  Yes, frozen cabbage works in this recipe; just defrost and drain before adding it to the slow cooker.

• Can I make this recipe in advance?
  Absolutely! You can prepare the ingredients the night before, store them in the fridge, and cook them in the slow cooker the next day.

• What can I serve with this dish?
  This meal pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad to balance the richness.

• How can I make it gluten-free?
  Ensure your tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free, as some brands contain gluten.

• What can I do with leftovers?
  Leftovers can be transformed into a stuffed pepper filling, or enjoy them reheated as a quick lunch option!

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are not just easy to make; they’re a comforting dish that satisfies the whole family. With its blend of savory ingredients and hearty texture, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your home. So, grab your slow cooker, and treat yourself and your loved ones to a delicious meal that’s worth every minute of cooking time. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this delicious dish!

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

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• Author: lydia
• Total Time: 375-495 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

A comforting dish that combines traditional cabbage roll flavors without the hassle of stuffing, simmered in a slow cooker.

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Ingredients

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• 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

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Instructions

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until slightly pink; drain excess fat.
2. Add diced onion, dried thyme, parsley, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt to the skillet; cook until onions soften, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker and top with chopped cabbage.
4. In a bowl, combine petite diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water; pour over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours until flavors meld and cabbage softens.

Notes

For a healthier alternative, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef. You can also make a vegetarian version by replacing the meat with lentils or mushrooms.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 480-480 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Comfort Food

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 500mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 70mg