Easy Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Casserole
↓ Jump to RecipeEnjoy the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the effort. This slow cooker casserole is hearty, delicious, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
- Prep 20 min
- Cook 480 min
- 6 servings
- Main Dish
Table of contents
There is nothing quite as comforting as a classic cabbage roll, but nobody actually enjoys the tedious process of rolling individual leaves. This slow cooker cabbage roll casserole takes all those beloved flavors and streamlines them into a simple, layered masterpiece. By combining tender cabbage with seasoned ground beef, rice, and a rich tomato-based sauce, you create a wholesome meal that tastes like it simmered for hours despite requiring very little active work.
This hearty dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cold winter evenings when you need a warm hug in a bowl. The texture is wonderful, with the cabbage becoming buttery-tender and the rice absorbing all the savory herb and tomato juices. The flavor profile is nostalgic and aromatic, elevated by dried oregano and basil, making it a crowd favorite for adults and adults.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Saves hours of labor compared to traditional cabbage rolls
- Uses simple pantry staples and fresh produce
- Perfect for hands-off cooking and easy cleanup
- Freezes beautifully for leftovers or meal prep
- A nutritious way to serve way more vegetables
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional for topping)
Equipment
Easy Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Casserole
Enjoy the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the effort. This slow cooker casserole is hearty, delicious, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling. Start by finely chopping your head of cabbage, onion, and mincing the garlic. In a large mixing bowl, combine together the ground beef, cooked rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes with their juices, onion, garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed and well seasoned.
- Layer the Casserole. Place half of the chopped cabbage evenly across the bottom of your slow cooker. Spread half of the prepared meat and rice mixture over the cabbage layer. Repeat the process with the remaining cabbage followed by the remaining meat mixture, creating distinct layers for even cooking.
- Slow Cook Low. Place the tight-fitting lid on the slow cooker. Cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours, or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours. You are looking for the point where the meat is fully cooked through and the cabbage has become very soft and tender.
- Melt the Cheese. If you are choosing to use shredded cheese, sprinkle it evenly over the top layer of the casserole. Replace the lid and let it cook for the final 15 minutes of cooking to allow the cheese to melt completely and become slightly golden before serving.
- Mix and Serve. Remove the slow cooker from the counter and use a large spoon to gently stir the layers together to ensure every portion is flavorful. Serve the casserole hot in deep bowls, perhaps with a side of crusty bread to soak up the extra tomato sauce.
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