Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Why Make This Recipe

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls is a comforting and easy dish. It combines all the classic flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls without the fuss of rolling each one. This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a warm, home-cooked meal without spending too much time in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over several hours.

How to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Making Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls is simple. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready 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

Directions:

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until it is slightly pink. Drain the excess fat.
2. Add the diced onion and seasonings to the skillet; cook until the onions soften.
3. Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker along with the chopped cabbage.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water; stir well.
5. Pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker and mix gently.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

You can serve Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls as is or with a side of bread. It also goes well with rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal. Top it with fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor.

How to Store Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

To store any leftovers, let them cool down and place them in an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. If you want to store them longer, you can freeze the dish in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Make sure to thaw before reheating.

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

1. You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
2. If you like it spicy, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
3. Customize the recipe by adding other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots.

Variation

If you want to make it vegetarian, you can replace the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms. You can also add some cooked rice to make it heartier.

FAQs

1. Can I cook this recipe on high instead of low?
Yes, you can cook it on high for about 3-4 hours if you are short on time.

2. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure to peel and chop them before adding them to the slow cooker.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients the night before and simply assemble them in the slow cooker in the morning.