Description

This Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole is a comforting and hearty one-pot meal that captures all the flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls without the hassle of rolling. Tender cabbage layers with savory ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce slow-cooked to perfection make for a delicious, easy-to-prepare dinner perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family meals.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

1 large head of cabbage, chopped
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced

Meat and Protein

1 pound ground beef or turkey

Grains

1 cup uncooked rice

Tomato Base & Sauces

1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Herbs and Spices

1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional

1 cup shredded cheese (optional)

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Instructions

Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked meat, sautéed onion and garlic, uncooked rice, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute all components.
Layer in Crockpot: Place half of the chopped cabbage in the bottom of the crockpot. Spoon half of the meat mixture over the cabbage layer. Repeat this layering with the remaining cabbage and meat mixture to create two tiers.
Cook Low and Slow: Cover the crockpot and cook on the low setting for 6-8 hours or on the high setting for 3-4 hours. This slow cooking ensures the cabbage becomes tender and the rice cooks thoroughly, melding all the flavors.
Add Cheese (Optional): If using, sprinkle shredded cheese on top of the casserole during the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow it to melt and become bubbly and golden.

Notes

You can use ground turkey as a leaner alternative to beef.
Make sure to chop the cabbage finely to ensure it cooks thoroughly within the crockpot time.
If you prefer, use instant rice to reduce cooking time, but adjust liquid accordingly.
Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
Adding the cheese is optional but adds a delicious creamy texture.