Helpful cooking tips
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing the onions and spices before adding them to the slow cooker.
You can add some cooked rice or quinoa to the meat mixture if you prefer a heartier dish.
If you like a bit of heat, increasing the red pepper flakes or adding a splash of your favorite hot sauce can spice things up!
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations to keep things fresh:
Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with lentils or plant-based meat for a vegetarian version.
Italian Flair: Add Italian seasoning and Parmesan cheese as a topping before serving.
Spicy Kick: Mix in some chopped jalapeños or use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor.
Your questions answered
How long does this dish take to prepare?
It takes around 20-30 minutes to prep, and then your slow cooker takes care of the rest.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegan substitute can work perfectly.
How do I reheat leftovers safely?
Reheat your leftovers in the microwave or a stovetop until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they’re safe to eat.
Enjoy creating this cozy, hearty dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!
Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
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Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
A comforting dish that captures the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls with minimal effort, perfect for busy nights.
Prep Time 30minutes minutesCook Time 7hours hoursTotal Time 7hours hours 30minutes minutes
Serving Size 6 servings
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 medium yellow onion, diced
1 small head green cabbage, chopped
14 ounces petite diced tomatoes
6 ounces 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
Preparation
Start by browning the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s still slightly pink. Drain any excess fat.
Add the diced onion, dried thyme, dried parsley, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt to the skillet. Sauté until the onions become soft.
Once everything is well combined, transfer the meat mixture to your slow cooker.
Layer the chopped cabbage over the meat mixture in the slow cooker.
In a separate bowl, combine the petite diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water, stirring to make a smooth sauce.
Pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker and gently mix it all together.
Cooking
Cover and cook on low for about 6 to 8 hours.
Serving
Serve the Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls with crusty bread or a side salad. A dollop of sour cream on top adds creaminess that complements the flavors.
