Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Can you smell the savory goodness wafting from the kitchen?

Imagine coming home after a long day, only to be greeted by the mouthwatering aroma of Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls. This dish is not just any meal; it’s an effortless, hearty embrace in a bowl, packed with tender cabbage, flavorful beef, and a zesty tomato sauce. Who wouldn’t want to dive into that, right?

Why make this recipe

Let’s be real — life gets busy, and cooking shouldn’t feel like a second job. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love this recipe:

1. Easy cleanup: Using a slow cooker means fewer pots to scrub, and no one hates washing dishes more than I do!
2. Affordable ingredients: You can whip up this cozy meal without breaking the bank. Just think of all the taco nights you can skip!
3. Family-friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will appreciate the hearty flavors without the fuss of rolling cabbage. Who can say no to a bowl of goodness?

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

• 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

Ready to get things cooking? Follow these easy steps:

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until slightly pink. Drain excess fat.
2. Add diced onion and seasonings to the skillet; cook until onions soften.
3. Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker along with the chopped cabbage.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine 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 make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls (Overview)

Making these unstuffed rolls is a piece of cake! Start by browning your ground beef and letting those kitchens scents unite with the sizzling onions. Then, simply toss everything into your slow cooker. Pro tip: don’t rush the cooking time. Allow your meal to simmer low and slow so all those flavors can meld together beautifully. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when your taste buds do a happy dance. 💃

How to serve Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Here’s the fun part: servings! Ladle the hearty mixture into bowls and consider a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a pop of color. Pair it with a side of crusty bread for that lovely crunch and to soak up all that flavorful sauce. Plus, the vibrant greens against the rich tomatoes make for an Instagram-worthy presentation! 📸

How to store Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

This dish is great for meal prep! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days, or scoop into freezer-safe containers for longer storage (up to 3 months). When it’s time to enjoy again, simply reheat on the stove or microwave until piping hot.

Tips to make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Swap the meat: Ground turkey or chicken can lighten things up without sacrificing flavor.
• Extra veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or zucchini for an added nutritional punch.
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add more red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!

Variation

Looking for a vegan option? Just replace the beef with lentils or quinoa and use vegetable broth instead of water. For a twist, you could add some Italian seasoning to give it a herbaceous flair. Who doesn’t love options?

FAQs

Can I use frozen cabbage?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw it first and squeeze out any excess water.

How long can I keep leftovers?
In the fridge, about 4-5 days, and up to 3 months in the freezer. But let’s be real, left overs? No one’s judging if you devour it all in one sitting!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! Prep it the night before, and pop it in the slow cooker in the morning for a hassle-free dinner.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

A hearty, effortless meal featuring tender cabbage, flavorful beef, and zesty tomato sauce, perfect for busy evenings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped Frozen cabbage can be used; thaw and squeeze out excess water.
• 14 ounce can petite diced tomatoes
• 6 ounce can tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme Add Italian seasoning for a herbal flair.
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Adjust according to spice preference.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup water Use vegetable broth for a vegan option.

Instructions

 

Preparation

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

Notes

For best results, allow your meal to simmer low and slow to let all flavors meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days or freeze for longer storage (up to 3 months).

Keyword Cabbage Rolls, comfort food, easy dinner, Hearty Meals, Slow Cooker