why make this recipe
Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that brings classic flavors to your dinner table with minimal effort. It combines the familiar taste of stuffed cabbage rolls into a simpler, one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weekdays or cozy family dinners. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing the ingredients to blend beautifully for a satisfying and flavorful meal. Plus, it’s a great way to use up cabbage, and it can easily feed a crowd!
how to make Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Directions:
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef (or turkey), rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Place half of the chopped cabbage at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Layer half of the meat mixture over the cabbage.
- Add the remaining cabbage, followed by the rest of the meat mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the cabbage is tender and the meat is cooked through.
- If using, sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last 15 minutes of cooking, then serve.
how to serve Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole
Serve the Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole hot, straight from the slow cooker. It’s delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. If you enjoy a little extra flavor, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top before serving.
how to store Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it. To freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container and it can last for about 2-3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
tips to make Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole
- For added flavor, sauté the onions and garlic in a skillet before mixing them with the other ingredients.
- You can use brown rice for a healthier option, but remember it may require additional cooking time.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste. Feel free to add more spices or herbs for a unique twist.
- If you’re using frozen ground meat, be sure to thaw it completely before mixing with the other ingredients.
variation
You can customize this recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrients. If you want to make it a bit spicier, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or using spicy sausage instead of beef or turkey.
FAQs
1. Can I use cooked rice instead of uncooked?
Yes, you can use cooked rice. Just reduce the cooking time to prevent the rice from becoming mushy.
2. Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the meat with plant-based meat alternatives or use lentils for a delicious vegetarian option.
3. Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, you can cook it on high for about 3-4 hours. Just keep an eye on the cabbage to ensure it doesn’t overcook.
Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole
- Total Time: 500 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: None
Description
A hearty and comforting one-pot meal that combines the classic flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls with minimal effort, perfect for busy weekdays or family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground beef (or turkey), rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Place half of the chopped cabbage at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Layer half of the meat mixture over the cabbage.
- Add the remaining cabbage, followed by the rest of the meat mixture.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the cabbage is tender and the meat is cooked through.
- If using, sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last 15 minutes of cooking, then serve.
Notes
For added flavor, sauté the onions and garlic before mixing with other ingredients. Adjust seasonings to taste, and you can customize by adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 480 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American