Imagine sinking your fork into a warm bowl of savory goodness, where tender cabbage mingles with spiced ground meat and zesty tomato sauce, creating a delightful symphony of flavors. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will leave you feeling like a gourmet chef, even if you just rolled out of your pajamas.
As a kid, I remember my mom attempting to make traditional stuffed cabbage rolls, only to have them unravel like my plans for adulthood. But one fateful day, she discovered the magic of unstuffed cabbage rolls. Who knew that the trick to saving our sanity was simply skipping the stuffing? Now, we can relish all the deliciousness without the fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights. It’s incredibly easy to prepare—just toss everything in your slow cooker and let it do its magic! The unique flavor profile combines the comforting taste of Italian spices with hearty ground meat and fresh veggies, making each bite an absolute delight. Not only does it look stunning with its vibrant colors, but it’s also versatile; you can customize it with different proteins or add extra veggies according to your preference!
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Here’s what you need for this delicious dish:
The complete ingredient list, including quantities, can be found directly under the recipe card.
How to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Chop That Cabbage
Start by removing the core from your green cabbage with a sharp knife. Slice it into thin strips—like you’re recreating a slaw masterpiece! Once chopped, set aside about half of it for later layering.
Step 2: Sauté Your Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and toss in diced onions. Cook them until they turn translucent (about 5 minutes). Then add minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Your kitchen should smell amazing right about now!
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ground turkey (don’t forget to cook it first), sautéed onions and garlic, cooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), dried herbs, and pepper flakes if using. Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Layer It Up
In your slow cooker, start layering! Begin with half of your chopped cabbage at the bottom as a base layer—this helps create a cozy nest for all those flavors. Next, spoon half of your turkey mixture on top of that cabbage layer. Repeat with another layer of cabbage followed by the remaining turkey mixture.
Step 5: Pour in Chicken Broth
Finally, pour in enough chicken broth to cover everything—about 1-2 cups should do depending on how saucy you want it. Cover your slow cooker with its lid and set it on low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for about 4 hours.
Step 6: Serve It Up
When it’s done cooking, give everything a gentle stir before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated cheese if desired. Enjoy steaming bowls topped with more diced tomatoes or even some sour cream if you’re feeling fancy!
This Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe is sure to become one of your family favorites—a comforting meal that’s both easy to prepare and utterly delicious!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls, layer your ingredients strategically. Start with a base of sauce, then add cabbage and meat mixture, allowing flavors to meld beautifully throughout the cooking time.
Add Your Personal Touch
Feel free to swap in ground turkey for beef if you’re aiming for a lighter dish. You can also toss in some chopped bell peppers for added crunch and flavor!
Storage & Reheating
To maintain the texture of your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls, store any leftovers in an airtight container. Keep the filling separate from the cabbage and combine just before reheating.
Helpful Chef Tips
One time, I made these rolls for a potluck, and they vanished faster than you can say “Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls!” Who knew cabbage could be so popular?
Conclusion for Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls offer a delightful blend of flavors that warms the heart and fills the stomach. This easy-to-follow recipe not only saves you time but also makes use of wholesome ingredients like ground turkey, fresh vegetables, and hearty spices. The slow cooker ensures everything melds beautifully, creating a comforting dish that your family will love. Don’t wait—gather your ingredients and experience the rich aroma and satisfying taste of these unstuffed cabbage rolls. Try this recipe today, and savor every delicious bite!
PrintSlow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Delicious slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls recipe with detailed instructions and nutritional information.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Method: Slow Cooker
Ingredients
- 1 head green cabbage, firm and blemish-free
- 1 lb ground turkey, at least 93% lean
- 2 cups cooked rice, cooled
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, packed in juice
- 1 sweet onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1–2 cups chicken broth, low-sodium
- 1/2 tsp pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Remove the core from the green cabbage with a sharp knife and slice it into thin strips.
- Set aside about half of the chopped cabbage for later layering.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and diced onions and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ground turkey, sautéed onions and garlic, cooked rice, diced tomatoes with their juice, dried herbs, and pepper flakes if using.
- Mix well until everything is evenly distributed.
- In the slow cooker, layer half of the chopped cabbage at the bottom as a base layer.
- Spoon half of the turkey mixture on top of that cabbage layer.
- Repeat with another layer of cabbage followed by the remaining turkey mixture.
- Pour enough chicken broth to cover everything (about 1-2 cups depending on desired sauciness).
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it on low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for about 4 hours.
- When cooking is complete, gently stir everything before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or grated cheese if desired.
Notes
Store leftovers in airtight containers.
Reheat gently on low heat.
Serve with crusty bread slices.
Add fresh herbs for flavor.
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat for Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls?
Yes! You can substitute ground turkey with ground chicken, beef, or lamb based on your preference. Each option brings its unique flavor to the dish while keeping it equally delicious.
How long should I cook Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls?
Cook your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This allows all the flavors to blend perfectly while ensuring the meat is tender.
What can I serve with Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls?
These unstuffed cabbage rolls pair well with crusty bread or a side salad. You can also enjoy them with rice or quinoa to make a complete meal that’s both filling and nutritious.
Can I freeze leftovers of Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls?
Absolutely! Leftover Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls freeze well. Store them in an airtight container for up to three months. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy another serving!