why make this recipe
Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are a fantastic dish that offers all the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls without the hassle of rolling each leaf. This recipe is perfect for busy weekdays because you can prepare it in the morning and let the slow cooker do all the work. It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with nutritious ingredients. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly meal that the whole family will enjoy.
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:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until it is slightly pink. Drain the excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and seasonings to the skillet; cook until the onions soften.
- Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker along with the chopped cabbage.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water; stir well.
- Pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker and mix gently.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
how to serve Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Serve the unstuffed cabbage rolls hot, directly from the slow cooker. You can accompany it with crusty bread or rice for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated cheese if desired. This dish also tastes great the next day, making it perfect for leftovers!
how to store Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the unstuffed cabbage rolls. Just make sure they are in a freezer-safe container, and they will last for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the microwave or on the stovetop.
tips to make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
- For a lighter version, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- Feel free to add additional vegetables, like bell peppers or carrots, for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on how much heat you like.
variation
You can also make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with lentils or quinoa. Add extra vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of water for more flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cabbage?
Yes, you can use frozen chopped cabbage. Just add it directly to the slow cooker without thawing.
2. What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with rice, crusty bread, or even a simple salad.
3. Can I make this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before, store it in the fridge, and then cook it the next day. Just remember to allow extra cooking time if starting from cold.