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Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

5 from 15 reviews

A delicious and easy Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe that features all the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the hassle of rolling. Ground beef, cabbage, and a savory tomato sauce slow-cook together to create a hearty, family-friendly meal perfect for any day.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetables

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

Sauce and Seasonings

  • 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

Instructions

  1. Brown the ground beef: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is mostly browned but still slightly pink. Drain off any excess fat.
  2. Sauté the onion and seasonings: Add the diced yellow onion, dried thyme, dried parsley, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions have softened and the seasonings are fragrant.
  3. Transfer to slow cooker: Move the beef and onion mixture into your slow cooker. Add the chopped green cabbage on top.
  4. Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the petite diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir until the mixture is well combined and smooth.
  5. Combine in slow cooker: Pour the tomato sauce mixture over the cabbage and beef in the slow cooker. Gently stir to distribute the sauce evenly without breaking up the cabbage too much.
  6. Cook low and slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on the low setting for 6 to 8 hours, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully.

Notes

  • For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level or omit for milder flavor.
  • Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread for a complete meal.
  • Leftovers reheat well and taste even better the next day.
  • Make sure to chop cabbage into bite-sized pieces for easier eating.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, unstuffed cabbage rolls, ground beef, cabbage recipe, easy dinner, comfort food