Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole: Easy Comfort Food for All Recipe

Introduction

This Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole is a simple and comforting twist on classic cabbage rolls. It combines savory ground beef, tender cabbage, and flavorful tomato sauce, all cooked slowly to meld the flavors perfectly. A great hands-off meal for busy days.

Ingredients

• 1 large head of cabbage
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 cups beef broth

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the beef is browned and the onion is softened.
2. Step 2: Begin layering by placing half of the cabbage at the bottom of the crockpot.
3. Step 3: Add half of the cooked meat mixture on top of the cabbage layer.
4. Step 4: Sprinkle half of the uncooked rice evenly over the meat.
5. Step 5: Add half of the diced tomatoes on top of the rice layer.
6. Step 6: Repeat the layering process with the remaining cabbage, meat, rice, and diced tomatoes.
7. Step 7: Pour the tomato sauce and beef broth evenly over the top layers.
8. Step 8: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the rice is tender and the cabbage is fully cooked.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of smoked paprika to the meat mixture.
• Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Use brown rice, but increase cooking time to ensure it becomes tender.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. This casserole can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked rice instead of uncooked?

It’s best to use uncooked rice in this recipe so it absorbs the flavors while cooking. Using pre-cooked rice might result in a mushy texture after slow cooking.

Can I prepare this recipe on the stovetop instead of a crockpot?

Yes, you can layer the ingredients in a large pot, add broth and tomato sauce, cover, and simmer gently for about 1-1½ hours until the rice and cabbage are tender, stirring occasionally.

Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole: Easy Comfort Food for All Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 129 reviews

• Author: lina
• Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes to 8 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

A hearty and comforting Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole that combines layers of cabbage, seasoned ground beef, rice, and tomatoes slow-cooked to perfection. This recipe offers an easy, hands-off approach to enjoying the classic flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the hassle of rolling individual parcels. It’s perfect for busy days when you want a warm, satisfying meal with minimal effort.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetables & Aromatics

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

Meat & Grains

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup uncooked rice

Liquids & Canned Goods

• 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth

Spices & Seasonings

• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

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Instructions

1. Cook Ground Beef Mixture: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef along with the chopped onion and minced garlic until the meat is browned and onions are translucent. Drain excess fat if necessary to avoid greasiness in the casserole.
2. Layer Cabbage: Slice the large head of cabbage into halves or quarters as needed, then layer half of the cabbage pieces evenly on the bottom of the crockpot to form the base of the casserole.
3. Add Meat Layer: Spread half of the cooked ground beef, onion, and garlic mixture over the cabbage layer in the crockpot, distributing it evenly.
4. Layer Rice and Tomatoes: Sprinkle half of the uncooked rice over the meat layer, then add half of the diced tomatoes (with their juices) on top of the rice layer.
5. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process by adding the remaining cabbage, then the rest of the cooked meat mixture, uncooked rice, and diced tomatoes, creating a second set of layers.
6. Add Sauce and Broth: Pour the entire can of tomato sauce along with 2 cups of beef broth evenly over the layered casserole to ensure moisture and flavor throughout the dish.
7. Season and Cook: Sprinkle the salt, black pepper, paprika, and dried thyme over the top. Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or until the rice is tender and cabbage is fully cooked through, resulting in a flavorful, tender casserole.

Notes

• Using uncooked rice means it will absorb the liquid and flavors from the broth and tomato sauce as it cooks in the crockpot.
• For a leaner version, choose lean ground beef or substitute with ground turkey or chicken.
• You can add additional vegetables like shredded carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.
• If you prefer a spicier casserole, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Leftovers reheat well and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you want the rice fully cooked but prefer less liquid, slightly reduce the broth to 1 ¾ cups.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours
• Category: Casserole
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Keywords: crockpot cabbage roll casserole, easy cabbage roll casserole, slow cooker cabbage rolls, comfort food casserole, ground beef casserole, one-pot meals