Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls is a comforting dish that combines all the flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls without the fuss of rolling them. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a tasty meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker does most of the work for you, allowing you to enjoy hearty flavors without spending hours in the kitchen.

This dish brings together ground beef, tender cabbage, and a rich tomato sauce, making a satisfying mixture. It is not only delicious and filling, but it also offers a healthy dose of vegetables. If you want a recipe that your family will enjoy, keep reading.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love this recipe for several reasons. First, it is simple and easy to prepare. With just a few basic ingredients and your slow cooker, you can have a delicious meal waiting for you after a long day.

Second, Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls is perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch and have leftovers for the week. It reheats well, making it a great option for lunches or quick dinners.

Third, the flavors meld beautifully as it cooks. The cabbage becomes tender, and the beef absorbs the sauce’s richness. Each bite is packed with goodness.

Lastly, this dish is versatile. You can change it to suit your tastes by adding different spices or vegetables. It is also gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

HOW TO MAKE Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Making Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls is straightforward. Let’s walk through the process step by step. You will find that the steps are easy to follow, and soon enough, you will have a hearty meal ready to serve.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make this recipe, you will need:

• A large skillet for browning the meat
• A slow cooker to cook the dish
• A mixing bowl to combine sauce ingredients
• A cutting board and knife for chopping vegetables

Ingredients You’ll Need :

• 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

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :

1. Brown the ground beef: Start by heating a large skillet on medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it is slightly pink. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, drain the excess fat from the skillet.
2. Cook the onion and seasonings: Add the diced onion and seasonings to the skillet with the beef. Cook until the onions soften, about 3 to 5 minutes.
3. Transfer to the slow cooker: Take the meat mixture and transfer it to the slow cooker. Add in the chopped cabbage, spreading it out evenly.
4. Mix the sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir everything well until it is mixed.
5. Pour the sauce: Gently pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker. Be careful not to mix too much to avoid breaking the cabbage.
6. Cook the dish: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will develop, and the cabbage will become tender.

 

 

HOW TO SERVE Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Once your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are ready, it’s time to serve. You can dish it out with a more fresh topping, such as chopped parsley or a sprinkle of cheese if desired. Serve it hot in bowls for everyone to enjoy.

It goes well with crusty bread or a side salad. The meal is hearty enough to stand on its own, but these sides can add extra flavor and variety.

STORAGE & FREEZING : Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

You can also freeze the unstuffed cabbage rolls for later. Let them cool completely before transferring them to a freezer-safe container. They will last in the freezer for about 2 to 3 months. To reheat, you can thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm it either on the stove or in the microwave.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

Here are some tasty serving suggestions for your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls:

• Pair with a simple green salad and vinaigrette for a light contrast.
• Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the rich sauce.
• Consider a side of rice or mashed potatoes for extra heartiness.
• Top the dish with a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.

VARIATIONS

If you want to switch things up with your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls, consider these variations:

• Vegetarian Version: Use lentils or a meat substitute in place of ground beef for a veggie version.
• Different Proteins: Try using ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for a colorful and nutritious twist.
• Spicier Sauce: If you like a kick, add more red pepper flakes or some hot sauce to the tomato sauce.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen ground beef?

Yes, you can use frozen ground beef. Just make sure you thaw it before cooking.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free since it does not use any wheat ingredients.

3. Can I use other types of cabbage?

Yes, you can use other types of cabbage, such as Savoy cabbage or Napa cabbage.

4. How do I know when it is done cooking?

The dish is done when the cabbage is tender, and the flavors have melded together—typically after 6 to 8 hours on low.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

One of the great things about this recipe is that you can prepare parts of it in advance. Here are some make-ahead tips:

• Prep the ingredients: Chop the onion and cabbage the night before. Store them in the fridge until you are ready to cook.
• Brown the beef ahead of time: You can brown the ground beef and season it a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge until you are ready to combine it with other ingredients.
• Assemble and refrigerate: You can even assemble everything in the slow cooker and refrigerate it overnight. Just take it out in the morning and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.

With these tips, you can make your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls preparation even easier. Enjoy your cooking and the delicious meal afterward!

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