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Crockpot Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls: Easy Recipe for a Hearty Meal

  • Author: Lila
  • Total Time: 390 minutes
  • Yield: 6-8 servings 1x

Description

This unstuffed cabbage roll recipe offers a comforting blend of tender cabbage, ground beef, rice, and spices, all cooked in a crockpot for an easy, flavorful meal. Enjoy the classic taste of stuffed cabbage rolls without the hassle of rolling, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large head of green cabbage
  • 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
  • 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for topping)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage by cutting a cone shape around it with a sharp knife.
  2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Gently place the whole cabbage into the pot and boil for about 2-3 minutes, or until the outer leaves start to soften.
  3. Using tongs, peel off the softened outer leaves and set them aside. Return the cabbage to the pot and repeat until you have about 10-12 leaves.
  4. Let the leaves cool slightly and trim the thick vein at the base of each leaf for easier rolling.
  5. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the diced onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  6. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
  7. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula, about 5-7 minutes.
  8. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
  9. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat mixture with the cooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
  10. Spread a thin layer of the meat and rice mixture in the bottom of your crockpot.
  11. Take a cabbage leaf, place a generous scoop of the filling at the base, and roll it up tightly, tucking in the sides.
  12. Place the rolled cabbage leaf seam-side down in the crockpot. Repeat with remaining leaves and filling, layering them in the crockpot.
  13. Pour any remaining meat mixture over the top.
  14. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
  15. About 30 minutes before serving, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top if using, cover, and let it melt.
  16. Once cooking time is up, carefully remove the lid and let the steam escape.
  17. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, lift the cabbage rolls from the crockpot and place them on a serving platter.
  18. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

  • Feel free to customize the filling with your favorite spices or add vegetables for extra nutrition.
  • This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it perfect for meal prep.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 360 minutes

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Find it online: https://kitchenyumm.com/crockpot-unstuffed-cabbage-rolls/