In the world of comfort food, few dishes hold a candle to the classic flavors of cabbage rolls. However, making traditional cabbage rolls can be quite a chore, involving lots of prep work and cooking. Luckily, there is a simpler way to enjoy all those delicious flavors without the fuss. Enter the Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls. This dish combines all the tasty ingredients of cabbage rolls into one easy-to-make, hearty meal that cooks while you are busy with other things. Let’s explore this delightful recipe that brings together ground beef, fresh cabbage, tomatoes, and an array of seasonings in the convenience of a slow cooker.
Why Make This Recipe
There are numerous reasons to whip up a batch of Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls.
Time-Saving: The most apparent benefit is convenience. Instead of spending hours in the kitchen, you can prepare this meal in just a few minutes and let the slow cooker do the work.
Flavorful: All the ingredients meld together beautifully, creating a dish that is flavorful and satisfying. The combination of beef, herbs, and vegetables creates layers of taste that are truly delightful.
Healthy Eating: Using fresh vegetables like cabbage and tomatoes means you’re getting a good dose of vitamins and minerals. Pairing this with lean ground beef makes it a wholesome meal.
Family-Friendly: This recipe is kid-approved! The flavors are mild and comforting, making them perfect for picky eaters.
Batch Cooking: This recipe is fantastic for meal prep. You can make a large batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week, or even freeze portions for later.
With these points in mind, it’s easy to see why Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls should be on your dinner menu.
How to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Making this dish is very simple. Let’s break it down into detailed steps.
Ingredients
To create this delicious meal, you’ll need the following items:
- 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 beef: Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook it until it is slightly pink. Make sure to break up the beef into small pieces with your spatula as it cooks. Once it is browned, drain off the excess fat.
Add onions and seasonings: In the same skillet, add the diced yellow onion, dried thyme, dried parsley, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt. Stir everything together and cook until the onions become soft and translucent. This usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes.
Transfer to slow cooker: Now, transfer the meat mixture from the skillet to the slow cooker. Add in the chopped cabbage.
Mix the sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the petite diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir all the ingredients together until they are well mixed.
Combine everything: Pour the prepared sauce over the meat and cabbage mixture in the slow cooker. Gently mix everything together to ensure that all the ingredients are coated with the sauce.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. If you’re in a rush, you can set it on high for about 3-4 hours, but the slow cooking method gives better results.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Once your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are done, it’s time to serve them! Here are some great suggestions:
On Their Own: This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, so you can simply serve in bowls and enjoy.
With Rice: For a more filling meal, serve the cabbage rolls over a bed of white or brown rice. The rice absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully.
With Bread: Pair this dish with some crusty bread or rolls. It’s perfect for soaking up the savory sauce.
Garnish: Top with fresh chopped parsley or a dollop of sour cream if you want to add an extra touch of flavor.
How to Store Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Storing the leftovers is quite simple:
Refrigeration: Allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: If you want to save it for later, you can freeze the unstuffed cabbage rolls. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Getting the best results with your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls can be achieved with a few handy tips:
Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cabbage and quality tomatoes will make a big difference in flavor. There are no substitutes for good, fresh produce!
Adjust Seasonings: If you prefer a bit more spice, feel free to increase the red pepper flakes. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount.
Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute with other veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or even kale for added nutrition.
Make it Vegetarian: Substitute ground beef for plant-based meat or lentils to make a vegetarian version. This can be just as delicious!
Variation
There are several variations you can try to keep this meal exciting:
Spicy Version: If you like it hot, add chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.
Cheesy Twist: For a creamy touch, add shredded cheese on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Cheddar or mozzarella melts well.
Different Protein: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey or chicken. They are healthier alternatives that still taste great.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cabbage?
Yes, you can use frozen cabbage if fresh is not available. Just add a bit more cooking time since frozen vegetables can be denser.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as it contains no wheat products. However, check the Worcestershire sauce label, as some brands may contain gluten.
How can I make this dish more flavorful?
Add more herbs and spices according to your preference. You can also enhance the flavor by adding a splash of vinegar or a bit of sugar to balance acidity.
By following this straightforward guide, you’ll have a wonderful meal ready to delight your senses and those of your family or friends. Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls make a perfect addition to your weeknight dinners or meal prep plans! Enjoy your cooking!
Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Ingredients
Method
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until slightly pink, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat.
- In the same skillet, add the diced yellow onion, dried thyme, dried parsley, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt. Stir and cook until the onions become soft and translucent, about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Transfer the meat mixture from the skillet to the slow cooker and add in the chopped cabbage.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the petite diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir until well mixed.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the meat and cabbage mixture in the slow cooker. Gently mix everything to coat all ingredients with the sauce.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.