Why Make This Recipe
Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that brings the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without all the fuss. It’s perfect for busy families, as you can set it in the morning and come home to a delicious meal. It’s also budget-friendly, uses simple ingredients, and can easily feed a crowd.
How to Make Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 1 onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 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
Directions:
- Slice the cabbage into hearty strips, removing the core.
- Sauté the chopped onion in oil until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- In a bowl, combine ground meat, rice, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and sauce.
- Season the mixture with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even distribution.
- Layer cabbage at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Spread half of the meat mixture over the cabbage evenly.
- Add another layer of cabbage followed by the remaining meat mixture.
- Top with a final layer of cabbage to cover the casserole.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir gently before serving and enjoy with bread or salad.
How to Serve Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole
Serve this dish warm straight from the slow cooker. You can pair it with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. Adding a dollop of sour cream on top can give it an extra creamy texture and enhance the flavors.
How to Store Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole
To store leftovers, let the casserole cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole
- Choose a large head of cabbage to ensure you have enough for layering.
- Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian option.
- Adding extra vegetables like bell peppers or carrots can increase the nutrition value.
- For a bit of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes or your favorite hot sauce to the meat mixture.
Variation
You can change the flavors by using different spices, such as cumin or paprika, or try adding cheese in the layers for a cheesy version. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top before serving can also brighten the dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cabbage?
Yes, you can use frozen cabbage! Just make sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before layering it in the casserole.
2. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and makes for easy reheating during busy weeknights.
3. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, substitute the ground meat with lentils or quinoa and ensure that the sauces do not contain meat products.
Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large head head of cabbage Ensure it's large for sufficient layers.
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey Can swap for a meat substitute.
- 1 cup uncooked 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
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheese For topping.
Instructions
Preparation
- Slice the cabbage into hearty strips, removing the core.
- Sauté the chopped onion in oil until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and stir until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- In a bowl, combine ground meat, rice, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and sauce.
- Season the mixture with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Mix all ingredients thoroughly, ensuring even distribution.
Layering
- Layer cabbage at the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Spread half of the meat mixture over the cabbage evenly.
- Add another layer of cabbage followed by the remaining meat mixture.
- Top with a final layer of cabbage to cover the casserole.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir gently before serving and enjoy with bread or salad.