CRAZY EASY CABBAGE ROLLS

Craving the comforting, hearty flavor of cabbage rolls, but dreading the fuss of actually rolling them? I hear you! Spend less time in the kitchen and more time relaxing with this unbelievably easy recipe for Easy Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls. Get ready to experience all the deliciousness without all the hard work; trust me, you’ll be amazed at how simple it is to achieve incredible flavor!

Gathering Your Heavenly Ingredients

Here is everything you’ll need to create this simplified version of a classic. Don’t be scared by the list – it’s mostly pantry staples!

For the Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls:

• 1 large head of cabbage, roughly chopped
• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey/pork)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup cooked rice (long-grain or medium-grain)
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat

Step-by-Step to Cabbage Roll Bliss

Let’s get started! This recipe is so straightforward, you’ll be wondering why you haven’t made it before.

Preparing the Unstuffed Mixture:

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (undrained), cooked rice, brown sugar, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then remove from heat.

Layering and Slow Cooking:

1. Place half of the chopped cabbage in the bottom of your slow cooker. This acts as a base to prevent sticking.
2. Pour half of the meat and tomato mixture over the cabbage.
3. Add the remaining cabbage on top.
4. Pour the remaining meat and tomato mixture over the cabbage.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the cabbage is tender.

Why This Recipe is a Game Changer

Okay, let’s talk about why this method is so much better than the traditional method! No more carefully peeling cabbage leaves without tearing them. No more meticulously stuffing and rolling each individual roll. This is true comfort food simplified.

Making it Your Own: Variations & Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can adapt it to your own tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few ideas:

• Protein Power: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, ground pork, or even a combination. You can even use Italian sausage for a bolder flavor.
• Rice Right: While long-grain or medium-grain rice works great, you could also use brown rice for a healthier option. Just be sure to cook it beforehand.
• Veggie Boost: Add other chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the meat mixture for extra nutrients and flavor.
• Sweet & Tangy: Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce for a touch of tanginess.
• Spice it Up: For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Tips & Tricks for Slow Cooker Success

Even though this recipe is super easy, here are a few tips to ensure perfect results every time:

• Don’t overcook the cabbage: You want it to be tender, but not mushy. Check it periodically towards the end of the cooking time.
• Adjust the liquid: If the mixture seems too dry during cooking, add a little water or beef broth.
• Let it rest: After cooking, let the unstuffed cabbage rolls sit in the slow cooker for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even more.
• Layering is key: While it doesn’t have to be perfect, layering the cabbage and meat mixture ensures that everything cooks evenly.

What to Serve Alongside Your Masterpiece

These Easy Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are a complete meal on their own, but they’re even better with a few simple sides. Here are some of my favorite pairings:

• Crusty bread: For soaking up all that delicious sauce.
• A simple green salad: To add some freshness and brightness to the meal.
• Mashed potatoes: For ultimate comfort food vibes.
• Garlic bread: Because why not?

Slow Cooker Cleaning Hacks

Cleaning a slow cooker can sometimes be a pain, but here’s a trick I swear by. After emptying the slow cooker, fill it with hot, soapy water and let it soak for a few hours. The stuck-on food will loosen up, making it much easier to scrub clean. For really stubborn spots, try using a paste of baking soda and water.

Cabbage Roll Cousins: Related Recipes You’ll Love

If you’re loving the ease and comfort of this unstuffed cabbage roll recipe, you might also enjoy these other simplified takes on classic dishes. Have you tried the RAGU? It’s a simple take on the classic Italian dish. Or, for another hearty slow cooker meal, check out SLOW COOKER STUFFED PEPPERS. If you’re feeling adventurous (and have some leftover cabbage!), give the SAUSAGE CABBAGE STIR-FRY a try. Looking for something soupy? Then the CROCK POT POTATO SOUP is right up your alley! Of course, if you want to try the original, there’s the CABBAGE ROLLS recipe.

Storing & Reheating Like a Pro

Leftover Easy Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are a gift from the culinary gods! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just be sure to let them cool completely before transferring them to freezer-safe containers or bags.

The Last Bite: Enjoy Your Cabbage Roll Triumph!

There you have it! A simple, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful meal that practically cooks itself. I hope you enjoy this Easy Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe as much as I do. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner, potluck dish, or comforting meal on a cold day. Enjoy every delicious bite, and don’t forget to share your creations with me!

Crazy Easy Cabbage Rolls

Craving comfort food without the fuss? This recipe for Easy Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls delivers all the deliciousness of traditional cabbage rolls, but with minimal effort. Simply layer the ingredients in a slow cooker and let it do the work!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 hours hrs

Total Time 7 hours hrs 20 minutes mins

Servings: 6

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 large head of cabbage, roughly chopped
• 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey/pork
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup cooked rice long-grain or medium-grain
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
• 1 tablespoon olive oil for browning meat

Equipment

• Large Skillet
• Slow Cooker (6-quart or larger)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Spatula or spoon
• Can opener

Method

 

1. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (undrained), cooked rice, brown sugar, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then remove from heat.
5. Place half of the chopped cabbage in the bottom of your slow cooker. This acts as a base to prevent sticking.
6. Pour half of the meat and tomato mixture over the cabbage.
7. Add the remaining cabbage on top.
8. Pour the remaining meat and tomato mixture over the cabbage.
9. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the cabbage is tender.
10. Let the unstuffed cabbage rolls sit in the slow cooker for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even more.
11. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

For best results, do not overcook the cabbage. Check it periodically towards the end of the cooking time. If the mixture seems too dry during cooking, add a little water or beef broth. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can add other chopped vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the meat mixture for extra nutrients and flavor. For a spicier dish, add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.