If you’re looking for a comforting and hearty meal that requires minimal effort, then Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls might just be your new favorite recipe. This dish combines the traditional flavors of cabbage rolls but simplifies the cooking process, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner.
Why We Love This Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe
There are countless reasons to adore this recipe. First and foremost, it is incredibly easy to prepare. You simply brown the meat, toss in your ingredients, and let the slow cooker do the work for you. This makes it an ideal option for those who want a home-cooked meal without all the fuss.
Moreover, the taste is simply unbeatable. The combination of beef, cabbage, and a rich tomato sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that will have your taste buds dancing. It’s a wholesome meal that packs a nutritional punch—providing protein, fiber, and essential vitamins—all in one dish.
Additionally, this recipe is highly adaptable. You can customize it easily based on what you have in your pantry or your personal preferences. Whether you want to switch up the vegetables or enhance the spice levels, the unstuffed format is forgiving and versatile.
Ingredients About Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
To prepare your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls, you’ll need a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. Here’s what you will gather before diving into the cooking process:
- 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
These ingredients are not only easy to find but often staples you might already have at home. The best part? They come together to create a delightful dish full of flavor.
How to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Directions
Creating your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls cannot be simpler. Here’s a step-by-step guide that will walk you through the cooking process:
- Brown the Ground Beef: Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef to the skillet, cooking until it is no longer pink. Make sure to break it apart as it cooks for even browning. Once cooked, drain any excess fat. This will help keep your dish from becoming greasy.
- Add the Onion and Seasonings: To the browned beef, add the diced yellow onion along with the dried thyme, dried parsley, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt. Stir the mixture and let it cook for a few minutes until the onions soften and release their natural sweetness.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Once the beef and onion mixture is cooked to perfection, transfer it into your slow cooker. It’s best to use a spatula or a wooden spoon to ensure everything makes it into the pot.
- Layer the Cabbage: Chop the small head of green cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Layer the chopped cabbage over the beef mixture in the slow cooker. There’s no need to worry about it being evenly distributed right now; it will cook down during the long cooking process.
- Prepare the Sauce: Grab a mixing bowl and combine the petite diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. This sauce is where all the flavor comes together!
- Combine in the Slow Cooker: Carefully pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage mixture in the slow cooker. Use a spoon to gently mix everything together, ensuring that the sauce evenly coats the ingredients.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can opt for high heat and cook it for about 3 to 4 hours, but low and slow really brings out the flavors.
- Final Touches: When the cooking time is up, give the mixture a good stir to combine it all before serving. The cabbage will have wilted down beautifully, and the flavors will have melded perfectly!
With these straightforward steps, you’ll have a homemade meal that’s not only delicious but also nourishing.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
When it comes to serving your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls, the options are delightful. To create a well-rounded meal, consider pairing it with crusty bread. This will help you scoop up the hearty mixture, adding a satisfying texture to each bite.
You might also want to serve a fresh green salad on the side. A light salad with a simple vinaigrette would complement the richness of the cabbage rolls perfectly, providing a refreshing contrast.
Lastly, don’t forget to sprinkle some grated cheese on top before serving if you enjoy that extra layer of flavor. A little cheese can elevate your dish and bring a gooey, comforting element to the meal.
Expert Tips: Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
To ensure your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls turn out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips that you might find helpful:
- Quality of Meat: Choose a good quality ground beef with a decent fat content for optimal flavor. You can opt for lean ground beef, but keep in mind that a little fat can enhance the overall richness.
- Chopping Cabbage: Don’t chop the cabbage too small; keep it in slightly larger pieces to avoid overly mushy results during cooking. Aim for about 1-2 inch pieces.
- Season to Taste: The seasonings can be adjusted according to your personal preference. If you like things spicier, feel free to add more red pepper flakes.
- Cook Time: Every slow cooker heats differently, so keep an eye on your dish the first time you make it. If it’s cooking too quickly, you can reduce the cooking time or change the heat settings.
- Enhance the Sauce: For a deeper flavor, consider adding garlic or bell peppers to the meat mixture. You can sauté them along with the onions.
By following these tips, you’ll be on your way to creating an unforgettable meal that earns rave reviews from your family and friends.
How to Store Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Leftovers can be a lifesaver for busy days. To store your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls, you can simply place any leftover portion in an airtight container. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing.
You can keep the dish refrigerated for about 3 to 4 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until it’s warmed throughout. If you have a larger batch and want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Place it in a freezer-safe container, and it should last for about 2 to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations of Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Feel free to get creative with your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls! Here are a few variations you might consider trying:
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef for a mixture of lentils or quinoa. You can also add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots for added texture and nutrition.
- Different Proteins: If you’re looking for variety, you can experiment with ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. They create a lighter dish while still maintaining the comforting essence of cabbage rolls.
- Flavor Boosters: Add some Italian seasoning or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. You can even include fresh herbs like basil or oregano for a more aromatic flavor.
- Spicy Twist: If you love heat, incorporate jalapeños or other peppers into the meat mixture. You can even use spicy tomato sauce instead of the traditional one.
With these variations, you can reinvent this dish each time you make it, keeping your family excited about dinner.
FAQ
What is the best way to prepare Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls?
To prepare the best Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls, follow the basic steps of browning the meat, sautéing the onions, and layering the ingredients in your slow cooker. Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor—especially the cabbage and tomatoes.
Can I freeze Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls?
Yes, you can freeze your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls! Just let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container or freezer bags for future meals.
How long do I cook Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls?
Cook your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls on low for 6 to 8 hours for the best results. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and hearty dish.
Can I modify the ingredients in Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls?
Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, so feel free to switch out ingredients based on your preferences or dietary restrictions. You can use different proteins, add more vegetables, or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 piece yellow onion, diced
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
- 14 oz petite diced tomatoes
- 6 oz tomato paste
- 2 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 tsp dried parsley
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ cup water
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it apart until no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion, dried thyme, dried parsley, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt to the beef. Cook until onions are softened.
- Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker.
- Layer the chopped cabbage over the beef mixture.
- In a bowl, mix the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water until combined.
- Pour the sauce over the cabbage and beef mixture in the slow cooker, mixing gently to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir well before serving to combine flavors.
Send me this recipe!
Just enter your email below and get it sent straight to your inbox!