Can I use brown rice instead of white?

You can, but it takes longer to cook and may need extra liquid. I’ve done it, but I prefer white rice here because it turns soft and tender without any guesswork.

Do I need to cook the rice first?

No, it goes in uncooked. That’s part of what makes this easy. It cooks right in the sauce and soaks up all that flavor.

Yes. I let it cool completely, then portion it into containers. It reheats well. The cabbage gets softer after freezing, but in this dish that’s not really a problem.

Is the cheese necessary?

Not at all. Traditional cabbage rolls don’t usually have cheese. I add it sometimes because my family likes it. But it’s completely optional.

What can I serve with it?

Honestly, I usually don’t serve much else. Maybe some crusty bread if I have it. It’s pretty filling on its own.

Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole (The Easy Way I Actually Make It)

Description

This Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole has all the classic flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the extra work. Layers of tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef or turkey, rice, and a rich tomato sauce slow cook together for an easy, comforting dinner the whole family will love.

Ingredients

Scale

1 large head of cabbage, chopped
1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
1 cup uncooked rice
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions

Brown the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat and set aside.
Saute Aromatics: Using the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and translucent.
Combine the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat, sauteed onion and garlic, uncooked rice, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
Layer in the Crockpot: Spread half of the chopped cabbage in the bottom of your slow cooker. Spoon half of the meat and rice mixture over the top. Repeat the layers with the remaining cabbage and meat mixture.
Slow Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours, until the cabbage is tender and the rice is fully cooked.
Optional Cheese Finish: If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Cover again to allow the cheese to melt into the casserole.

Notes

You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option. For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 420
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 780mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 26g
Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: crockpot cabbage roll casserole, slow cooker cabbage roll casserole, easy cabbage roll casserole