Name: Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
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

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I still remember the first time I tasted unstuffed cabbage rolls. It was at a friend’s house during a cozy winter gathering, and instantly, comfort flooded my senses. This slow cooker version maintains all the rich flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the fuss. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something hearty yet uncomplicated. You can simply toss everything into the slow cooker and let it work its magic while you focus on other things.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

One of the reasons to try this slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls recipe is its remarkable ease and convenience. You get all the savory goodness of the classic dish but without the labor-intensive rolling process. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and a family favorite, making it ideal for a satisfying weeknight meal or a comforting Sunday dinner. It’s healthy too, packed with vegetables and lean protein, making it a well-rounded option everyone will enjoy.

“This dish is a life-saver! It’s not only delicious but also so easy to throw together. My kids absolutely devoured it!” — Sarah M.

The Cooking Process Explained

Preparing slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls is as straightforward as it gets. Start by browning some ground beef, add onions and spices for depth, then layer in chopped cabbage for that satisfying crunch. Finally, combine it with a luscious tomato sauce and let the slow cooker work its wonders. Within hours, you’ll have a fragrant, comforting meal that practically cooks itself!

Key Ingredients

Gather These Items

To make this wholesome meal, gather the following ingredients:

1 pound ground beef: A fantastic source of protein.
1 yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth.
1 small head green cabbage, chopped: The star ingredient for texture.
14-ounce can petite diced tomatoes: Great for adding acidity and flavor.
6-ounce can tomato paste: Thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the umami.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers an aromatic herbal note.
2 teaspoons dried parsley: For garnish and freshness.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Just enough heat to wake up the flavors.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning.
1/2 cup water: To create a perfect simmering sauce.

Feel free to swap out the ground beef for turkey or a plant-based alternative if you prefer a leaner or vegetarian option.

Directions to Follow

Brown the Meat: In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until it’s slightly pink. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat.
Add Onions and Seasonings: Stir in the diced onion, dried thyme, parsley, salt, and red pepper flakes. Cook until the onions begin to soften.
Transfer Mixture: Move the meat mixture to the slow cooker and add the chopped cabbage on top.
Prepare the Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir well to mix.
Combine in Slow Cooker: Pour this sauce over the cabbage and meat mixture in the slow cooker. Gently mix everything together.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, allowing all those fabulous flavors to meld beautifully.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

When it comes to serving slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls, think about adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top for an extra burst of flavor. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish. For an added layer of satisfaction, consider serving it over a bed of rice or quinoa.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To keep your leftovers fresh, store any uneaten unstuffed cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you need to keep them longer, freeze portions for up to three months. Reheating is simple: just warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to keep things moist. Always ensure you heat it until piping hot for food safety.

Helpful Cooking Tips

To enhance your cooking experience, try browning the meat and onions in advance and storing them in the fridge until you’re ready to assemble. This little trick not only saves time but also retains the flavor you’ve developed. If you want to cut down on prep time, pre-chopped cabbage can often be found at the grocery store, making this dish even quicker to prepare.

Creative Twists

Get creative! For a kick, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or bell peppers when sautéing the onions. You might also swap the spices based on regional flavors—perhaps a splash of smoked paprika for a Spanish twist or even some curry powder for something different. This dish is versatile, allowing you to tailor it to your flavor preferences or dietary needs.

Common Questions

How long does it take to prepare and cook?

The total time is about 15 minutes for prep, plus 6-8 hours in the slow cooker.

Can I make this dish without meat?

Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or simply increase the amount of vegetables for a vegetarian version.

Is it safe to freeze and reheat leftovers?

Yes, as long as you freeze within two hours of cooking, it is safe to freeze. Make sure to reheat until it’s steaming hot.

Enjoy the cozy goodness of slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls — it’s an effortless recipe that will surely become a staple in your home!

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls