Description
A hearty and comforting Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe combines seasoned ground beef, onions, and cabbage simmered in a rich tomato sauce. This easy one-pot meal delivers all the classic flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the hassle of stuffing, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
Tomato Sauce
- 14-ounce can petite diced tomatoes
- 6-ounce can tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup water
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it is slightly pink, then drain off any excess fat.
- Sauté Onions and Seasonings: Add the diced onion and seasonings (thyme, parsley, red pepper flakes, kosher salt) to the skillet. Cook until the onions are softened and aromatic.
- Transfer to Slow Cooker: Move the beef and onion mixture into the slow cooker, then add the chopped cabbage on top.
- Prepare Tomato Sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the petite diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir thoroughly to blend all the ingredients.
- Add Sauce to Slow Cooker: Pour the prepared tomato sauce evenly over the meat and cabbage mixture in the slow cooker, then gently mix to combine.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the cabbage to become tender.
Notes
- Drain excess fat after browning the beef to reduce greasiness.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to desired spice level.
- For a thicker sauce, cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes.
- This dish pairs well with a side of crusty bread or mashed potatoes.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat beautifully.
