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Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

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4.3 from 5 reviews

A comforting and easy slow cooker recipe for unstuffed cabbage rolls that combines ground beef, cabbage, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. This dish offers all the classic taste of traditional cabbage rolls without the hassle of rolling, making it perfect for a hearty family meal.

  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 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
  • 1 small head green cabbage, chopped into 1-inch pieces

Sauce

  • 14 ounce can petite diced tomatoes
  • 6 ounce can tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup water

Instructions

  1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, crumble and brown the ground beef until it is mostly cooked but still a little pink. Drain any excess grease if necessary.
  2. Sauté Onions and Seasonings: Add the diced onion, dried thyme, dried parsley, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt to the skillet. Cook together for 3 to 5 minutes until the onions have softened.
  3. Transfer to Slow Cooker: Add the browned beef mixture to the crockpot or slow cooker.
  4. Prepare Cabbage: Chop the cabbage into roughly 1-inch pieces and add it to the slow cooker on top of the beef mixture.
  5. Make the Sauce: In a mixing bowl or large measuring cup, combine the petite diced tomatoes, tomato paste, soy sauce, and water. Stir until well mixed, then pour the sauce over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
  6. Mix Ingredients: Carefully stir all the components together in the slow cooker to ensure even distribution of the sauce and ingredients.
  7. Slow Cook: Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. If possible, stir the mixture halfway through cooking to help blend flavors.
  8. Serve: Serve the unstuffed cabbage rolls hot, ideally over rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Notes

  • For a lower sodium option, use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce added salt.
  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a leaner protein.
  • Adding a splash of vinegar or a pinch of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes if desired.
  • This dish reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Leftovers can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: American