Crock Pot Cabbage Roll Casserole

Introduction

If you love traditional cabbage rolls but don’t have the time to roll each one by hand, this Crock Pot Cabbage Roll Casserole is the perfect solution. It delivers all the comforting flavors of classic stuffed cabbage in a simple layered casserole that’s easy to prepare. Tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, fluffy rice, and a rich tomato sauce slowly cook together in the crock pot before being topped with a generous layer of melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese. This hearty, family-friendly meal is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy dinners during cooler months.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
• 1 large head green cabbage, chopped
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1½ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it begins to brown.
2. Add the chopped onion and continue cooking until the beef is fully browned and the onion is tender.
3. Reduce the heat to low, stir in the minced garlic, and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Drain any excess grease.
4. Stir in the paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Mix in the uncooked long-grain rice until evenly combined.
6. Lightly grease the crock pot. Spread half of the beef mixture into the bottom, then top with half of the chopped cabbage.
7. Repeat the layers with the remaining beef mixture and the remaining cabbage.
8. Cover and cook on Low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the rice is fully cooked.
9. Sprinkle the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses evenly over the top.
10. Cover again and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
11. Serve hot and enjoy.

Tips

• Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease.
• For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture.
• Brown rice can be substituted, but it may require additional cooking time and liquid.
• Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• This casserole also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

This Crock Pot Cabbage Roll Casserole is an easy, satisfying twist on the classic cabbage roll recipe. With layers of seasoned beef, tender cabbage, hearty rice, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese, every bite is packed with comforting homemade flavor. It’s an effortless slow cooker meal that’s perfect for feeding a hungry family, making ahead for busy days, or enjoying as delicious leftovers. Once you try this simple casserole, it’s sure to become a regular favorite in your meal rotation.