There’s something about the smell of cooking cabbage that makes me feel warm and cozy, like a big hug from the kitchen. Every time I make Healthy Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls, I think of family gatherings and the comforting meals shared around the table. We often enjoyed stuffed cabbage rolls, but this unstuffed version saves time and simplifies the process without losing any of the flavors. You just throw everything into a slow cooker, and let it do the work! This recipe is special because it brings all the goodness of traditional cabbage rolls in a more relaxed and easy way.
why make this recipe
Healthy Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are a fantastic option for busy weeknights. They are nutritious, full of flavor, and you can make them in a slow cooker. This means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones. Plus, they are lighter than traditional options, making them a healthier choice.
how to make Healthy Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 pound ground turkey or lean beef
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- In a slow cooker, add the chopped cabbage as a base.
- In a large bowl, mix together the ground turkey or beef, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and spices.
- Pour the meat mixture over the cabbage in the slow cooker.
- Pour the broth over everything to keep it moist.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir before serving to mix in the cabbage with the filling.
how to serve Healthy Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Serve these unstuffed cabbage rolls hot, straight from the slow cooker. You can add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for extra flavor. They pair well with crusty bread or a light salad on the side for a complete meal.
how to store Healthy Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just make sure to let them cool completely before freezing.
tips to make Healthy Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
- If you like a bit more flavor, add some Italian seasoning to the mix.
- You can substitute quinoa for rice for a protein boost.
- Feel free to add in other veggies like carrots or bell peppers for more nutrition.
variation
You can easily make a vegetarian version by using beans or lentils instead of meat, and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This way, you still get all the flavors, but in a plant-based option.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cabbage? Yes, frozen cabbage can work, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.
What can I use instead of ground turkey? You can substitute ground chicken, beef, or even plant-based meats for a different flavor.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can prepare it the night before and let it cook in the slow cooker in the morning for an easy dinner.
PrintHealthy Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
A simplified, healthier version of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls made in a slow cooker.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Paleo
Ingredients
- 1 head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 pound ground turkey or lean beef
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Add the chopped cabbage to a slow cooker as a base.
- Mix together the ground turkey or beef, cooked rice, diced tomatoes, onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and spices in a large bowl.
- Pour the meat mixture over the cabbage in the slow cooker.
- Pour the broth over everything to keep it moist.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir before serving to mix in the cabbage with the filling.
Notes
Serve with a dollop of sour cream or fresh parsley on top. Pairs well with crusty bread or a light salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
