If you’re craving the heartiness and comfort of traditional cabbage rolls but prefer a hands-off approach, this Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Imagine tender cabbage layered with savory ground meat, fragrant herbs, and perfectly cooked rice—all slow-cooked to meld those rich flavors beautifully. It’s satisfying, easy to prepare, and a total crowd-pleaser, making it just right for a comforting family dinner or a cozy weekday meal that feels extra special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the familiar ingredients that come together to create something truly delicious. Each element plays a key role—whether it’s the fresh crunch of cabbage, the hearty protein, or the vibrant tomato base. Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand before you get started:
- 1 large head of cabbage: Provides a tender, slightly sweet base that simmers down perfectly in the crockpot.
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey: Adds rich, savory flavor and protein; lean turkey keeps it lighter if you prefer.
- 1 cup uncooked rice: Soaks up all the luscious juices, making the casserole wonderfully filling.
- 1 onion, chopped: Brings a touch of sweetness and depth to the meat mixture.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic warmth and a subtle kick.
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes: Creates a vibrant, tangy sauce that ties everything together.
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce: Intensifies the tomato flavor for a rich, comforting base.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Delivers a deep umami boost that enhances the meatiness.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Offers a fragrant herbal note that complements the tomato and meat.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Adds a sweet, slightly peppery lift to the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional): A melty, golden finish if you want a bit of indulgence on top.
How to Make Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat and cooking your ground beef or turkey until it’s fully browned. This step is crucial because it seals in the meat’s flavor and prevents any gaminess. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the casserole from becoming greasy, and set the meat aside for the next steps.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In that same skillet, toss in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cooking them until the onions turn translucent (usually 2 to 3 minutes) allows their sweetness and aroma to build, adding a lovely foundation of flavor to the dish.
Step 3: Combine Filling Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat, sautéed onions and garlic, uncooked rice, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Mixing these components now ensures every bite is bursting with balanced, robust flavor before it gets cozy in the crockpot.
Step 4: Layer the Cabbage and Meat Mixture
Time to build your casserole right in the crockpot. Layer half of the chopped cabbage in the bottom, then spoon half of the meat and rice mixture over it. Repeat with the remaining cabbage and meat mixture, creating a layered effect that mimics the classic cabbage rolls without all the rolling hassle.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. This slow-cooking process softens the cabbage while fully cooking the rice, allowing all the flavors to meld into one gorgeous casserole full of tender, juicy goodness.
Step 6: Add Cheese (Optional)
If you love a cheesy finish, sprinkle shredded cheese on top about 30 minutes before the cooking time is up. The cheese will melt into a golden, gooey layer that adds an irresistible creamy edge to the already comforting casserole.
How to Serve Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra pop of flavor and color, consider fresh herbs like chopped parsley or dill sprinkled on top just before serving. A dollop of sour cream also pairs beautifully, adding creaminess and a subtle tang that complements the rich tomato sauce.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands well on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads or roasted root vegetables for a well-rounded meal. A crusty piece of bread or warm dinner rolls can also help soak up all the delicious sauce left on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving individual portions in rustic ramekins for a charming, personal touch, or layer it in a deep baking dish to bring to potlucks or family dinners. Adding a spoonful of caramelized onions or pickled vegetables on the side can create delightful contrasts in texture and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply transfer any leftover casserole to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for quick lunches or easy dinners later in the week.
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole to enjoy another day by letting it cool completely first. Pack it into a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers either in the microwave or gently on the stovetop. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil and warm at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to keep the moisture locked in, ensuring that comforting texture stays intact.
FAQs
Can I use different types of meat in this Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe?
Absolutely! While ground beef or turkey are classic choices, you can also use ground chicken, pork, or even a plant-based ground meat substitute to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Do I need to precook the rice before adding it to the crockpot?
No need to precook the rice. The uncooked rice cooks slowly inside the crockpot as the casserole simmers, absorbing all those delicious juices and becoming perfectly tender.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe is naturally gluten-free, provided you double-check your Worcestershire sauce and any canned ingredients for gluten-containing additives.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Definitely! Feel free to add red pepper flakes, a dash of cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce to the meat mixture for a flavorful kick that suits your heat preference.
How do I know when the casserole is done?
You’ll know it’s ready when the cabbage is tender and the rice is fully cooked through, absorbing the tomato sauce. The slow cooking times recommended allow for this, but checking the texture to your liking is always a good idea.
Final Thoughts
This Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe is a cozy, flavorful twist on a classic comfort dish that anyone can make with ease. It’s a wonderful recipe to have in your dinner rotation for busy days or when you want something nourishing without fuss. Give it a try, and get ready to fall in love with a slow-cooked masterpiece that feels like a warm hug from the inside out.
Print
Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 8 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes (low) or 3 hours 15 minutes to 4 hours 15 minutes (high)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole is a comforting and hearty slow-cooked dish that combines the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the tedious rolling. Ground beef or turkey, rice, tomato sauces, and spices are layered with fresh cabbage and slow cooked to tender perfection. Optionally topped with melted cheese, this one-pot meal is perfect for an easy family dinner with minimal prep.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Grains
- 1 cup uncooked rice
Tomatoes and Sauces
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
Spices
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional
- 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 be added later.
- Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté for 2-3 minutes or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Combine filling: In a large bowl, mix together the cooked meat, sautéed onions and garlic, uncooked rice, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Layer the casserole: Place half of the chopped cabbage in the bottom of the crockpot. Spoon half of the meat and rice mixture evenly over the cabbage. Repeat with the remaining cabbage and meat mixture, creating two distinct layers.
- Slow cook: Cover the crockpot with its lid and cook on low heat for 6 to 8 hours or on high heat for 3 to 4 hours. The cabbage should be tender and the rice fully cooked by the end.
- Add cheese (optional): About 30 minutes before the end of cooking, sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly over the top. Cover again and allow the cheese to melt nicely before serving.
Notes
- You can use ground turkey for a leaner alternative to ground beef.
- Make sure to chop the cabbage finely so it cooks thoroughly and evenly.
- If you prefer, rinse the rice briefly before adding to reduce excess starch.
- This dish can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently.
- For a dairy-free option, omit the cheese topping or use a vegan cheese substitute.
