Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole

Why Make This Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole

Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole brings the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls to your table without the fuss of rolling each individual cabbage leaf. This forgiving recipe allows for easy preparation in a slow cooker, creating a hearty meal that’s full of flavor. Picture tender cabbage, seasoned meat, and rice simmered together in a delicious tomato sauce—it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak more veggies into your diet, making it perfect for families and gatherings. With minimal effort involved, you can return home to a delightful aroma and a satisfying meal.

How to Make Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole

Making Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole involves a few simple steps that yield remarkable results. It’s a great recipe for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal. Start by browning your choice of ground meat and sautéing some onions and garlic for that aromatic base. Then, layer the ingredients right in your crockpot. As it cooks, the flavors meld beautifully, and you’re left with a fulfilling dish that feels like home-cooked goodness. The best part? You can prepare it beforehand and let it do its magic while you go about your day.

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:

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and aromatic.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked meat, sautéed onion and garlic, uncooked rice, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly combined.
4. Layer half of the chopped cabbage in the bottom of the crockpot. Spoon half of the meat mixture over the cabbage. Repeat with the remaining cabbage and meat mixture.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the cabbage is tender and the rice is cooked through.
6. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt and create a delicious cheesy topping.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1 cup):

• Calories: 320
• Total Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Cholesterol: 75mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 31g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 6g
• Protein: 20g

This nutritional breakdown makes it a balanced meal option, loaded with protein and vegetables.

How to Serve Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole

Serve your Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole hot from the slow cooker for a comforting meal. Pair it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. If you’re hosting a gathering, it makes a fantastic main dish that everyone will enjoy. You can even offer toppings like extra cheese, fresh herbs, or a dollop of sour cream to let guests customize their portions.

How to Store Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.

Expert Tips for Perfect Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole

• For extra flavor, consider adding some chopped bell peppers or carrots to the meat mixture.
• If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked rice.
• Adjust the spices according to your taste—add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick or some smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
• Make sure to layer the ingredients well in the crockpot to ensure even cooking.

Delicious Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the meat with lentils or a meatless ground product for a veggie-friendly version.
• Different Grains: Instead of rice, try using quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.
• Italian Twist: Add Italian sausage instead of beef or turkey for a flavorful change; a sprinkle of Parmesan can also elevate the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I use frozen cabbage?
  Yes, you can use frozen cabbage. Just thaw it and drain any excess water before adding it to the crockpot.

• What can I do if my rice isn’t cooking properly?
  If your rice is still hard after cooking, you might need to add a bit more liquid and allow it to cook longer. The cabbage and sauce should provide sufficient moisture, but if needed, add a splash of water or broth.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?
  Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole is a delicious, easy-to-make recipe that brings the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls right to your kitchen table. With its hearty ingredients and rich tomato sauce, this casserole is perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week. Try it out, and let it warm your heart and home. Don’t forget to share your experience or any variations you try—we’d love to hear from you!

Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole

A hearty and comforting casserole that combines the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the fuss of rolling individual leaves, made easy in a slow cooker.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 7 hours hrs 30 minutes mins

Total Time 7 hours hrs 45 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 320

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Casserole Ingredients

• 1 large head cabbage, chopped
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey Your choice of ground meat
• 1 cup uncooked rice Can substitute with quinoa or cauliflower rice
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce Ensure gluten-free if needed
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• to taste Salt and pepper
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional) For topping

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked. Drain excess fat and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and aromatic.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked meat, sautéed onion and garlic, uncooked rice, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly combined.
4. Layer half of the chopped cabbage in the bottom of the crockpot. Spoon half of the meat mixture over the cabbage. Repeat with the remaining cabbage and meat mixture.

Cooking

1. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the cabbage is tender and the rice is cooked through.
2. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For freezing, allow to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat as needed. For extra flavor, consider adding chopped bell peppers or carrots to the meat mixture.