🥘 Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

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🥘 Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Prep time: 15 mins | Cook time: 4–7 hours | Servings: 6

🛒 The Ingredient Lineup

Ingredient Amount Notes
Ground Beef 1 lb (450g) Lean is best; can sub turkey/chicken.
Green Cabbage 1 small head Chopped (approx. 6 cups).
White Rice 1 cup Uncooked long-grain works best.
Beef Broth 2 cups For cooking the rice and thinning the sauce.
Tomato Base 1 can sauce + 1 can diced 15 oz sauce / 14.5 oz diced tomatoes.
Aromatics Onion & 3 cloves Garlic Diced and minced.
Pantry Staples Tomato paste, Brown sugar Adds depth and balances acidity.
Seasonings Paprika, Oregano, Thyme Salt and pepper to taste.

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Brown & Sauté: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet. Brown the beef and onions together until the meat is no longer pink (about 5 mins). Stir in the garlic for the last 30 seconds, then drain the grease.

  2. Load the Slow Cooker: Transfer the beef mixture to your slow cooker. Add the chopped cabbage, uncooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, broth, tomato paste, and all seasonings.

  3. Mix: Stir thoroughly to ensure the rice is submerged and the cabbage is evenly distributed.

  4. Slow Cook:

    • Low: 6–7 hours

    • High: 3–4 hours

  5. Finish & Serve: Give it a good stir 30 minutes before serving. If it looks too thick, add a splash of broth. Taste and adjust salt/pepper.

Pro-Tip: For an extra touch of indulgence, serve with a dollop of sour cream and a side of crusty bread to soak up that rich tomato broth.

💡 Variations for Your Routine

  • Low Carb: Swap the white rice for cauliflower rice (add it in the last 30 mins of cooking).

  • The “Cheesy” Version: Sprinkle mozzarella or cheddar over the top 10 minutes before serving and let it melt.

  • Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the beef while browning.

❄️ Storage & Reheating

  • Fridge: Lasts up to 4 days. It actually tastes better on Day 2!

  • Freezer: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.

  • Reheating: Use the microwave or stovetop. Add a tiny splash of water if the rice has absorbed all the liquid.

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