Description
This Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole offers all the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the hassle of rolling. Combining ground beef or turkey, hearty rice, and a tangy tomato sauce seasoned with herbs, this layered casserole is slow-cooked to tender perfection, making it a simple and satisfying meal perfect for busy days.
Ingredients
Scale
Main 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)
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 to prevent a greasy casserole and enhance flavor.
- Sauté Aromatics: Using the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Combine Mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked meat, sautéed onion and garlic, uncooked rice, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper until all ingredients are evenly combined.
- Layer the Casserole: Spread half of the chopped cabbage evenly in the bottom of the crockpot. Spoon half of the meat and tomato mixture over the cabbage. Repeat the layering with the remaining cabbage and meat mixture.
- Slow Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Cook until cabbage is tender and rice is fully cooked to ensure a cohesive and flavorful dish.
- Add Cheese (Optional): If using, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking, allowing it to melt and add a creamy, savory finish to the casserole.
Notes
- For a healthier option, use ground turkey instead of beef.
- Make sure to drain excess fat after browning meat to prevent a greasy casserole.
- If you prefer, use brown rice but increase the cooking time accordingly to ensure rice is cooked through.
- Add more herbs or spices like paprika or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
