Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are a cozy, comfort food dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights and family dinners. This easy-to-make recipe is a simplified take on traditional stuffed cabbage rolls, offering all the delicious flavors without the fuss. Imagine tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a flavorful tomato sauce, all slow-cooked to perfection. It’s a hearty meal that will warm your heart and fill your belly!

What Goes into This Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

To whip up this satisfying dish, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound (450 g) ground beef
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
• 14-ounce (400 g) can petite diced tomatoes
• 6-ounce (170 g) 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 (120 ml) water

Step-by-Step Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Making this dish is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go.

1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat and set it aside.
2. Add the diced onion, dried thyme, dried parsley, red pepper flakes, and salt to the skillet. Cook until the onions soften, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Transfer the meat and onion mixture into your slow cooker. Then, add the chopped cabbage on top.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir well until blended.
5. Gently pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker, mixing lightly to combine.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors are well blended.

How to Serve Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Once your slow cooker is done doing its magic, it’s time to serve up this delicious dish! Ladle the unstuffed cabbage rolls into bowls, making sure everyone gets a generous helping of both the meat and cabbage.

You can serve this dish with crusty bread or rice on the side to soak up the tasty sauce. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme, on top can add a lovely touch. For a refreshing contrast, consider pairing it with a simple side salad.

Expert Tips for Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Beef Alternatives: If you prefer, you can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
• Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian spin, replace the meat with thick beans like kidney, black, or chickpeas, and add more veggies to the mix.
• Make It Spicy: If you love a kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to the tomato mixture.

Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls: Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze any leftovers! Just store them in an airtight container, and they’ll last about 3 months in the freezer.

How do I reheat unstuffed cabbage rolls?
You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just make sure to add a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.

Can I cook this dish on high instead of low?
Yes! If you’re short on time, you can cook it on high for about 3-4 hours instead. Just make sure the cabbage is tender before serving.

Thanks for reading about this easy and delicious recipe for Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls! It’s a great way to bring some wholesome flavors to your dinner table. Enjoy cooking, and happy eating!

Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

A cozy and comforting dish made with savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and flavorful tomato sauce all slow-cooked to perfection.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 400

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
• 14 ounces can petite diced tomatoes
• 6 ounces 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

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Drain any excess fat and set it aside.
2. Add the diced onion, dried thyme, dried parsley, red pepper flakes, and salt to the skillet. Cook until the onions soften, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Transfer the meat and onion mixture into your slow cooker. Then, add the chopped cabbage on top.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir well until blended.
5. Gently pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker, mixing lightly to combine.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors are well blended.

Serving

1. Ladle the unstuffed cabbage rolls into bowls, making sure everyone gets a generous helping of both the meat and cabbage.
2. Serve with crusty bread or rice on the side to soak up the sauce, and sprinkle with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For a lighter option, swap ground beef for turkey or chicken. For a vegetarian version, use thick beans and more veggies.