introduction
This recipe makes unstuffed cabbage rolls in the slow cooker. It gives the warm taste of stuffed rolls without the work. Serve it with bread or rice for a full meal. For a similar meat and cabbage slow cooker idea, try this easy slow cooker beef and potato cabbage dinner.
why make this recipe
You save time and still get deep, cozy flavors. The slow cooker does the work while you do other things. It uses simple pantry items and makes great leftovers. If you like slow cooker beef dishes, you may also enjoy this high-protein slow cooker beef bites.
how to make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Cook the meat and onions first, then let the slow cooker finish the dish. Mix the sauce well and pour it over the cabbage and meat. Stir gently so the cabbage gets sauce. Cover and cook on low until the cabbage is soft and the flavors blend. For other slow cooker main ideas, see this simple Italian pot roast slow cooker recipe.
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
Directions :
- 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 meat mixture to the slow cooker along with 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.
how to serve Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Spoon into bowls and top with a little extra black pepper or fresh parsley. Serve with bread, mashed potatoes, or plain rice. A simple green salad also works well.
how to store Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Cool the dish to room temperature, then cover and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until hot. You can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
tips to make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
- Cut the cabbage to similar sizes so it cooks evenly.
- Brown the beef well for more flavor.
- If you like a thinner sauce, add a bit more water.
- For a sweet touch, add a teaspoon of brown sugar.
- Try a simple slow cooker snack or sweet to serve after dinner like slow cooker candied pecans.
variation (if any)
- Use ground turkey or pork instead of beef.
- Add cooked rice to the meat mix for a more classic stuffed-roll feel.
- Stir in a splash of vinegar or a touch of sugar for a balanced sauce.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen ground beef?
A: It is best to thaw and brown frozen beef first. This keeps the texture even.
Q: Can I make this on high instead of low?
A: You can cook on high for 3-4 hours, but check the cabbage for doneness.
Q: Is this recipe spicy?
A: It is mild. The red pepper flakes add a small kick, but you can skip them.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Yes. Carrots or bell peppers work well if you chop them small.
Q: How do I make it less acidic?
A: Add a teaspoon of sugar or a splash of cream at the end to round the sauce.
Conclusion
For another unstuffed cabbage idea and a similar crock pot method, see Crock Pot Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls – The Country Cook.
Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Ingredients
Method
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until slightly pink. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion and seasoning to the skillet; cook until onions soften.
- Transfer meat mixture to the slow cooker along with 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 until cabbage is soft and flavors blend.