Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and fills your home with delightful aromas, you’ve come to the right place! Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are a cherished family favorite in our house. They capture all the classic flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without any of the fuss of rolling individual leaves. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings when you want something comforting yet uncomplicated.

What makes this recipe even more special is how versatile it is. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for an easy meal prep option, these unstuffed cabbage rolls tick all the boxes. So grab your slow cooker and let’s dive into this hearty dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: Just brown, mix, and let the slow cooker do the work—no rolling required!
• Family-Friendly Flavor: The savory combination of beef and cabbage is sure to please even picky eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it in the morning, and come home to a delicious home-cooked meal waiting for you.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to switch up ingredients based on your dietary needs or preferences.
• Comfort Food Delight: Every bite offers warm, satisfying flavors that remind you of home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients for our Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls. You’ll find these items are easy to come by and perfect for bringing out that comforting flavor we all love.

For the Filling

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped

For the Sauce

• 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

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are some variations you can try:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option that’s still packed with flavor.
• Go vegetarian: Replace meat with lentils or a mix of your favorite vegetables for a hearty veggie version.
• Add more veggies: Toss in other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to boost nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: Adjust the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat!

How to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s slightly pink. This step is essential because it adds depth of flavor to your filling. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat afterward!

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Seasonings

Next, add the diced onion along with your seasonings to the skillet. Cook until the onions soften; this brings out their sweetness and enhances the overall taste of your dish.

Step 3: Combine in Slow Cooker

Transfer the meat mixture into your slow cooker along with the chopped cabbage. Mixing everything together allows those flavors to meld beautifully as they cook.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir well to blend all those delicious flavors together before pouring it over the meat and cabbage mixture in your slow cooker.

Step 5: Mix It Up

Gently mix everything together in your slow cooker so that each ingredient gets coated with that flavorful sauce. This step ensures every bite is full of goodness!

Step 6: Let It Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours. The slow cooking process allows all those wonderful flavors to develop while making sure everything stays tender and juicy.

And there you have it! Your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are ready to serve. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Making Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls is as easy as pie, but these pro tips will help you elevate your dish to the next level!

• Choose fresh cabbage: A fresh head of cabbage makes a world of difference in flavor and texture. Look for vibrant green leaves that are firm and crisp for the best results.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Don’t be afraid to tweak the spices! Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to add more thyme or parsley—or even try new herbs like oregano or basil—to personalize the flavor profile.
• Mix it up with proteins: For a lighter alternative, consider substituting ground turkey or chicken for beef. If you’re going vegetarian, lentils or a mix of your favorite vegetables can create a hearty and satisfying meal.
• Layer wisely: When adding ingredients to the slow cooker, layer them properly. Start with the meat mixture at the bottom and then add the cabbage on top. This helps everything cook evenly and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Use a slow cooker liner: Cleaning up after cooking can be a hassle. Using a slow cooker liner makes cleanup a breeze and keeps your slow cooker looking brand new!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Serving your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls is all about presentation and complementary flavors. Here are some ideas to make your dish shine!

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and enhances the dish’s freshness.
• Sour cream or dairy-free yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or a dairy-free alternative provides creamy richness that balances the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: The buttery, garlicky goodness of bread pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of cabbage rolls. It’s great for sopping up any leftover sauce!
• Steamed broccoli: This vibrant green vegetable adds nutrition and color to your plate while providing a nice contrast in texture.
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the cabbage rolls while adding a refreshing crunch.
• Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can bring brightness and crunch alongside your hearty cabbage rolls, creating an enjoyable balance of flavors.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an unforgettable meal with your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are perfect for meal prep! They not only taste better the next day, but they also save you time during your busy week. Here’s how to store and manage your delicious leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool slightly before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep the cabbage rolls in their sauce to maintain moisture.

Freezing

• Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Make sure to leave some space at the top of containers as the dish may expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal quality.
• Label with the date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe container and heat in short intervals, stirring between each until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls that you might have!

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a lighter option. Just follow the same cooking instructions, and enjoy a healthier version of this comforting dish.

How long do Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls last in the fridge?

These delicious rolls will stay fresh in your refrigerator for about 3-4 days. Just make sure they are stored in an airtight container!

Can I make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls vegetarian?

Yes! You can easily substitute lentils or mixed vegetables for the meat. Just adjust cook times as needed, and feel free to play around with seasonings to achieve your desired flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope this recipe for Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls brings warmth and joy to your table! It’s such a cozy dish that’s not only easy to prepare but is also packed with flavor. Enjoy making it and sharing it with loved ones. Happy cooking!