Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Introduction

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls capture all the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the fuss of rolling. This hearty, one-pot meal combines ground beef, cabbage, and a savory tomato sauce, making it an easy and satisfying dinner for any day of the week.

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

Instructions

1. Step 1: Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until it is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the pan.
2. Step 2: Add the diced onion, dried thyme, dried parsley, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt to the skillet. Cook until the onions are softened, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Step 3: Transfer the meat and onion mixture to the slow cooker. Add the chopped cabbage on top.
4. Step 4: In a separate bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir well to create the sauce.
5. Step 5: Pour the sauce evenly over the meat and cabbage mixture in the slow cooker. Gently stir to distribute the sauce without breaking up the cabbage too much.
6. Step 6: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors are well blended.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
• Add cooked rice or quinoa toward the end of cooking for a heartier texture.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste before serving.
• Use fresh herbs like parsley or thyme if available, adding them during the last hour of cooking for a fresher flavor.

Storage

Store leftover unstuffed cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm in a saucepan over low heat or microwave until heated through. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can use the sauté function to brown the beef and onions, then add all ingredients and cook on manual high pressure for about 15 minutes, followed by a natural release.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely. Replace the ground beef with lentils, textured vegetable protein, or a plant-based meat substitute, and adjust seasoning to taste.

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 88 reviews

This Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe offers all the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the hassle of rolling. Ground beef, cabbage, and a rich tomato-based sauce slow cook together for a hearty, delicious meal that’s perfect for busy days.

• Author: Dana
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours
• Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main 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

Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the ground beef until it is just slightly pink. Drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness in the final dish.
2. Sauté Onions and Add Seasonings: Add the diced yellow onion along with dried thyme, dried parsley, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt to the beef in the skillet. Cook until the onions become soft and fragrant.
3. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Move the cooked meat and onion mixture into the slow cooker. Add the chopped green cabbage evenly on top.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In a separate mixing bowl, combine the petite diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir thoroughly until well blended.
5. Combine and Cook: Pour the tomato sauce mixture over the cabbage and beef in the slow cooker. Gently mix to incorporate the sauce without breaking up the cabbage too much.
6. Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the cabbage to become tender.

Notes

• For a leaner option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
• You can add more vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred heat level or omit for a milder dish.
• If you don’t have a slow cooker, this can be adapted to cook in a covered pot on low heat on the stovetop for about 2 hours.
• Serve this dish with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Keywords: slow cooker cabbage rolls, unstuffed cabbage rolls, easy slow cooker recipes, ground beef cabbage recipe, comfort food