Make Delicious Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Today!

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are a delightful and hassle-free take on the traditional cabbage roll recipe. By skipping the tedious step of stuffing individual cabbage leaves, this dish delivers all the comforting flavors with a fraction of the effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekend meals, this hearty and satisfying dish is sure to become a new family favorite.

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Ingredients for Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

To make this Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that come together to create a mouthwatering meal.

For the Meat Mixture:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Cabbage and Sauce:

• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
• 14-ounce can petite diced tomatoes
• 6-ounce can tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 cup water

When selecting your ingredients, be sure to choose fresh, high-quality produce and meats for the best results. The key to this dish is using a small head of green cabbage, which will provide the perfect texture and flavor.

How to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Preparing Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls is a breeze, thanks to the convenience of the slow cooker. Follow these simple steps for a delicious and hassle-free meal:

Cook the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with the diced onion until the beef is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat from the pan.

Season the Beef Mixture

Stir in the dried thyme, parsley, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt to the cooked beef mixture. Remove the pan from the heat.

Prepare the Cabbage

Chop the green cabbage into bite-sized pieces, ready to layer in the slow cooker.

Layer in the Slow Cooker

Add half of the chopped cabbage to the bottom of the slow cooker. Top with half of the beef mixture, followed by half of the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Repeat the layers.

Add the Sauce

Drizzle the Worcestershire sauce and water over the top of the layered ingredients.

Cook in the Slow Cooker

Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Serve and Enjoy

Gently stir the Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls before serving for a hearty and comforting dish that’s sure to satisfy.

The Nutritional Benefits of Cabbage and Ground Beef

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls is not only delicious but also a nutritious meal. Cabbage is a cruciferous vegetable that’s packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a great addition to any diet. Ground beef, on the other hand, is a lean protein source that provides essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamin B12. Together, these ingredients create a well-balanced and nourishing dish.

Variations and Customizations

The beauty of Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls is its versatility. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs:

• Meat Alternatives: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based protein options like lentils or soy crumbles.
• Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the mix for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Seasoning Adjustments: Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as garlic powder, smoked paprika, or Italian seasoning, to create your own unique twist on the dish.
• Dietary Considerations: For gluten-free and dairy-free options, simply omit the Worcestershire sauce or use a gluten-free alternative, and skip any cheese toppings.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls pairs perfectly with a variety of side dishes. Some delicious options include mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or a fresh garden salad. For added indulgence, top the dish with a dollop of sour cream or grated Parmesan cheese. To complement the flavors, consider serving a glass of red wine or a crisp lager.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Cheesy Ground Beef and Cabbage Roll Pasta Bake
• One-Pot Kielbasa Pasta
• Crockpot Kielbasa and Green Beans

FAQs about Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

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

To cook unstuffed cabbage rolls in a slow cooker, simply layer the chopped cabbage, ground beef mixture, and tomato sauce in the slow cooker, then cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the cabbage is tender.

Can cabbage rolls be cooked in a slow cooker?

Yes, cabbage rolls can absolutely be cooked in a slow cooker. The slow cooking method helps to tenderize the cabbage and allows the flavors to meld together for a delicious and hassle-free meal.

What is the secret ingredient in cabbage rolls?

There is no one secret ingredient in cabbage rolls, but some common additions that enhance the flavor include Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and a touch of brown sugar or honey.

How to make lazy man’s cabbage rolls?

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls is essentially a “lazy man’s” version of traditional cabbage rolls. By skipping the step of stuffing the individual cabbage leaves, you can achieve the same comforting flavors with a fraction of the effort.

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls is a brilliant solution for those who love the taste of cabbage rolls but don’t want to deal with the time-consuming process of assembling them. This hearty and flavorful dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend meals. With its versatile ingredient list and endless customization options, Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls is sure to become a new family favorite. Embrace the convenience of the slow cooker and enjoy this comforting and delicious meal any time of the year.

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