Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls turn a classic dish into an easy, cozy meal! With ground meat, rice, and tender cabbage simmering in a delicious tomato sauce, it’s comforting and hearty.
This dish is like a warm hug in a bowl! I love how it all cooks together while I go about my day. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day—if there are any left! 😂
Using a slow cooker makes this meal super simple; just toss everything in and let it work its magic. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something warm and tasty without much fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is the star of this recipe. Its leaves are soft and tender when cooked. If you can’t find it, savoy cabbage can be a good alternative, offering a sweeter flavor and softer texture.
Ground Meat: I usually go for ground beef for its rich flavor. However, ground turkey is a healthier substitute. You can even use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option, just remember to adjust the cooking time.
Tomato Sauce & Diced Tomatoes: The combination of these adds depth. If you’re looking for less acidity, try using crushed tomatoes or a low-sugar sauce. You can also use homemade tomato sauce if you have some on hand.
Rice: Both white and brown rice work well here. If you’re short on time, pre-cooked rice saves you the hassle. Quinoa or couscous can also serve as a great substitute if you want something different.
How Do I Properly Brown Ground Meat?
Browning meat is key to enhancing flavor in the dish. Here’s how to do it effectively:
- Heat a skillet over medium heat, then add the ground meat. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
- Break the meat apart with a spoon or spatula for even cooking. Allow it to sit for a minute before stirring to help develop a rich brown color.
- Keep stirring until it’s fully browned, and drain any excess fat before continuing with the dish.
This step is crucial for a hearty taste in your unstuffed cabbage rolls. Enjoy the process!
How to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Ingredients:
- 1 head of green cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
For Seasoning:
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then you can let your slow cooker work its magic for 6-8 hours on low heat or 3-4 hours on high heat. Overall, it’s a delicious and stress-free meal that you can set and forget!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Meat:
Start by heating a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet. Cook it until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. Once done, drain any excess fat and set the meat aside for later.
2. Layer the Cabbage:
Take your slow cooker and layer the bottom with the chopped cabbage. Make sure it’s evenly spread out so it cooks well.
3. Add the Meat and Veggies:
On top of the cabbage, add the cooked ground beef (or turkey), chopped onion, and minced garlic. This will give your layers a nice mix of flavors.
4. Make the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, combine the tomato sauce, undrained diced tomatoes, and broth. Add in the Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
5. Pour the Sauce:
Pour this delicious sauce mixture evenly over the cabbage and meat layers in the slow cooker. This will coat everything nicely!
6. Add the Rice:
Gently add the cooked rice into the slow cooker. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to stir everything together, making sure each ingredient gets mixed in without breaking the cabbage too much.
7. Cook It Up:
Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The goal is to have the cabbage nice and tender while letting all those flavors meld together.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s cooked, give it a gentle stir to mix everything again. Serve it hot in bowls, garnished with some fresh chopped parsley if you’d like. Enjoy your hearty and flavorful unstuffed cabbage rolls!
Can I Use a Different Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives like lentils or tempeh for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed; leaner meats like turkey may cook faster.
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and ensure the broth you choose is also gluten-free. Most canned tomatoes and sauces are gluten-free, but always double-check labels for any hidden gluten ingredients.
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time! Chop the cabbage and prepare the meat mixture, then store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to cook, layer everything in the slow cooker and follow the usual instructions.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual portions or warm in a skillet on the stovetop until heated through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months; just remember to thaw in the fridge before reheating!
