Why You’ll Love This Dish

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls bring all the delicious flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the fuss of rolling each leaf. This dish is perfect for busy days when you want a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, leaving you with tender cabbage, hearty ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce that you’ll adore. It’s easy to make, tastes incredible, and is a family-friendly favorite!

Easy Steps to Prepare Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

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

1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s just slightly pink. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the diced onion and seasonings to the skillet. Cook until the onions are soft.
3. Transfer the meat mixture to your slow cooker and add the chopped cabbage.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir well.
5. Pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker. Mix gently to combine.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, until the flavors meld and the cabbage is tender.

Serving Up a Delicious Meal

To serve your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls, you can scoop out generous portions into bowls. This dish pairs wonderfully with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for added flavor. Enjoy it with some crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a satisfying meal.

Storing Leftovers Safely

If you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Tips for Perfect Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Feel free to add in some of your favorite veggies, like carrots or bell peppers, for extra nutrition.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
• For a lower-carb option, substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or a plant-based meat alternative.

Creative Variations

You can switch things up by using different meats or seasonings. Try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or add different spices like paprika or Italian herbs for a unique twist.

Nutritional Information

While exact nutritional information will vary based on portions and ingredients, this dish is a great source of protein and vitamins. Each serving is generally low in calories, making it a nutritious option for family dinners.

Serving Ideas to Feed the Family

This dish is delightful on its own, but it can also be served with a side salad for added freshness. A nice garlic bread or baked potato also complements the meal perfectly, making it a well-rounded dinner.

Perfect Pairings for Your Meal

Consider serving your Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls with a light green salad dressed with vinaigrette, or a side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. A glass of red wine can also elevate the meal if you enjoy wine with dinner.

Common Questions About Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Can I use other types of cabbage?

Absolutely! You can use savoy or napa cabbage for a different texture.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, this meal is perfect for prep. You can prepare the ingredients the night before and store them in the fridge. Just pop everything in the slow cooker the next day.

Is it possible to freeze leftovers?

Definitely! You can freeze portions in airtight containers. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Enjoy the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the fuss of rolling each leaf in this easy slow cooker recipe that is perfect for busy days.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Course dinner, Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
• 14 ounces canned 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 For a spicier kick, adjust to taste.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions

 

Preparation

• In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s just slightly pink. Drain any excess fat.
• Add the diced onion and seasonings to the skillet. Cook until the onions are soft.
• Transfer the meat mixture to your slow cooker and add the chopped cabbage.
• In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir well.
• Pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker. Mix gently to combine.

Cooking

• Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, until the flavors meld and the cabbage is tender.

Notes

To serve, you can add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. This dish pairs well with crusty bread or over rice. For storage, let leftovers cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions in airtight containers.

Keyword Comfort Food, Dinner Recipe, Family Favorite, Slow Cooker, Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls