Easy Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls for Comforting Meals

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Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls offer a comforting, hearty meal that fills your home with irresistible aromas. This easy recipe combines tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a flavorful tomato sauce, delivering a delightful kick of flavor with every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker does all the work. Serve this dish warm, and watch as it brings everyone together around the table.

Why You’ll Love Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

These unstuffed cabbage rolls are a game-changer for anyone who loves the classic dish but wants a simpler take. The beauty lies in their simplicity; all the ingredients meld together in the slow cooker, creating a rich and satisfying meal without the fuss of rolling individual cabbage leaves. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy the nutritional benefits of cabbage, packed with vitamins and fiber.

Essential Tools for This Recipe

Slow Cooker

A slow cooker is essential for this recipe. It allows the flavors to blend beautifully while tenderizing the cabbage and meat to perfection.

Skillet

A skillet is needed for browning the ground beef and sautéing the onions, ensuring they are flavorful before mixing them with the rest of the ingredients.

Mixing Bowl

A mixing bowl is helpful for combining the sauce ingredients easily before pouring them over the cabbage and beef.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

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

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it is slightly pink. Drain any excess fat to keep the dish lean and flavorful.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Seasonings

Add the diced onion, dried thyme, dried parsley, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt to the skillet. Cook until the onions begin to soften, about 3-4 minutes, releasing their delightful aroma.

Step 3: Prepare the Cabbage

Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker. Add the chopped cabbage on top, ensuring it’s evenly distributed for thorough cooking.

Step 4: Mix the Sauce

In a separate bowl, mix together the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water until well combined. This sauce will bring a rich flavor to the dish.

Step 5: Combine and Cook in the Slow Cooker

Pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients. Cover and set the slow cooker to low, cooking for 6 to 8 hours until everything is tender and fragrant.

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls dish with ground beef and tomato sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these unstuffed cabbage rolls warm, garnished with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. Pair with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy these savory bites with family and friends!

Tips for Perfecting Your Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

For an even healthier twist, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the ground beef. You can also create a vegetarian version using lentils or beans as a protein substitute. Ensure you adjust the cooking time if using quicker-cooking ingredients.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For freezing, place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and use within 3 months. To reheat, warm in the oven at 350°F for 20-30 minutes, in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, or on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid overcooking the cabbage, as it can become overly soft and mushy. Always ensure you have enough liquid in the slow cooker to maintain moisture throughout the cooking process. Lastly, don’t skip browning the meat! It deepens the flavor significantly.

FAQs

How do you cook unstuffed cabbage rolls in a slow cooker?

To cook unstuffed cabbage rolls in a slow cooker, start by browning ground beef in a skillet, then sauté onions and seasonings. Transfer to the slow cooker, add chopped cabbage, and mix a sauce of diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Pour the sauce over the mixture, stir gently, cover, and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.

How long do you need to cook cabbage rolls?

Cabbage rolls typically need to cook in a slow cooker for 6 to 8 hours on low. This allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to become tender.

What is an unstuffed cabbage roll?

An unstuffed cabbage roll is a simplified version of traditional cabbage rolls where all the ingredients are combined in a dish instead of rolled individually. It maintains the same flavors and textures but is much easier to prepare.

How long can cooked cabbage rolls sit out?

Cooked cabbage rolls should not sit out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent foodborne illnesses. They should be refrigerated promptly.

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Conclusion

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are a delicious and comforting dish that brings the family together. If you’re interested in more culinary inspiration, check out our collection of recipes on Pinterest. With their ease of preparation and satisfying flavors, these cabbage rolls are sure to become a favorite in your home.