Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole

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Author: Noah Reed
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Delicious Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole served in a bowl

Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole

Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole is the ultimate comfort food dish that combines all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls into a hearty, easy-to-prepare casserole. This recipe is a perfect melding of tender cabbage leaves, savory ground meat, and tangy tomatoes, creating an aromatic and satisfying meal. There’s something particularly special about the way the flavors meld together while cooking, filling your home with a warm and inviting scent. If you’re seeking a cozy dish that can be prepared with minimal effort, this step-by-step guide will help you create a family-friendly meal that delights your taste buds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole is not just about incredible flavors; it also offers a variety of benefits that make it a favorite in many households. With easy prep that takes only a fraction of your time, this dish allows you to set it and forget it while you go about your day. Whether you’re a busy parent or simply looking for a comforting weeknight dinner, this recipe requires minimal ingredients. The result is a nourishing meal that can satisfy even the pickiest eaters, making it an ideal choice for family dinner nights.

Ingredients for Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole

To create this mouthwatering meal, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey: Choose your preferred protein for a rich, hearty base.
  • 1 onion, chopped: The aromatic backdrop that enhances the dish’s flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: A touch of garlic adds warmth and depth.
  • 1 head of cabbage, chopped: The essential ingredient that brings the dish together with its tender, leafy goodness.
  • 1 cup cooked rice: For added texture and heartiness.
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz): Juicy, tangy tomatoes that infuse flavor.
  • 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz): To create a luscious sauce that binds everything together.
  • 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the dish.
  • 1 teaspoon pepper: Adds a bit of warmth to the flavor profile.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings a smoky warmth that enhances the overall taste.

Step-by-Step Directions for Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole

  1. In a skillet, brown the ground meat with chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until fully cooked and fragrant. Drain any excess fat.

  2. In the crockpot, layer half of the chopped cabbage at the bottom. This will serve as a tender base for your casserole.

  3. Add half of the cooked meat mixture on top of the cabbage layer, spreading it evenly.

  4. Spread half of the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce over the meat layer, ensuring even coverage.

  5. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika to season the layers beautifully.

  6. Repeat the layering process with the remaining cabbage, the rest of the meat mixture, and the remaining diced tomatoes and sauce.

  7. Cover the crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours, until the cabbage is tender and flavors meld wonderfully.

  8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, for a comforting meal.

Tips & Tricks

Transform your Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole into a gourmet experience with these tips! Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the flavor depth. Feel free to experiment with different ground meats or even try a combination for a unique twist. If you like a bit of heat, adding red pepper flakes can take the dish to a new flavor level. Lastly, ensure to taste and adjust your seasonings before layering, as personal preferences may vary!

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

For an enticing presentation of your Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole, serve it in a deep dish topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill for a pop of color. Pair it with warm, crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and a refreshing green salad to balance the richness of the casserole. A dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of shredded cheese can add extra flavor and creaminess, creating a well-rounded meal that everyone will enjoy.

Nutritional Information

A serving of Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole packs a nutritious punch! It provides ample protein from the meat, fiber from the cabbage and tomatoes, and carbohydrates from the rice. Generally, one serving can range from 350-500 calories, depending on your choice of meat. This casserole is a great way to enjoy a fulfilling meal without feeling overly indulgent!

Storing Tips & Variations for Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole

Storing your Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole is a breeze! It can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Reheating is easy—simply pop it in the oven or microwave until warmed through. For healthier swaps, you could replace white rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice. You could also add more vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a nutritious boost.

Conclusion for Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole

With its rich flavors and cozy appeal, it’s no wonder that Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole is a favorite among families. This dish not only provides comfort but also a sense of nostalgia that draws people together around the dinner table. Don’t hesitate—try this scrumptious recipe today and make it a part of your meal repertoire!

FAQs

  1. Can I use a different type of meat?
    Yes! Feel free to substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat-free alternative for a vegetarian version.

  2. How can I make this dish spicier?
    For extra heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the layer of meat for added zest.

  3. Is it possible to make this dish in advance?
    Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and then cook it on the day you plan to serve it.

  4. Can I use frozen cabbage?
    Yes, you can use frozen cabbage, but it’s best to thaw and drain any excess moisture before using it in the recipe.

  5. What can I serve with this casserole?
    Serving it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or yogurt will complement the flavors beautifully and enhance the dining experience.

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Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole


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  • Author: noah-reed
  • Total Time: 255 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: None

Description

A comforting and easy-to-prepare casserole combining the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls with ground meat, tomatoes, and rice.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef or turkey
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 head of cabbage, chopped
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
  • 1 can tomato sauce (15 oz)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

  1. In a skillet, brown the ground meat with the chopped onion and minced garlic over medium heat until fully cooked and fragrant. Drain any excess fat.
  2. In the crockpot, layer half of the chopped cabbage at the bottom.
  3. Add half of the cooked meat mixture on top of the cabbage layer.
  4. Spread half of the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce over the meat layer.
  5. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and paprika to season the layers.
  6. Repeat the layering with the remaining cabbage, rest of the meat mixture, and remaining diced tomatoes and sauce.
  7. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or high for 3-4 hours, until the cabbage is tender.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or experiment with different ground meats. Add red pepper flakes for heat if desired.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 240 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Crockpot
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 700mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

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