Slow Cooker Cabbage Recipe for Easy, Flavorful Meals

Originally posted on April 8, 2022 @ 1:56 pm

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, hearty dish made in a slow cooker, especially when it features the humble cabbage. Slow cooker cabbage recipes bring out the natural sweetness and tender texture of cabbage, making it a delicious and nutritious meal option perfect for any season.

Whether you’re looking for a simple side dish or a full meal packed with flavor, this recipe is easy to prepare, requires minimal hands-on time, and will fill your home with inviting aromas for hours.

Using a slow cooker allows the cabbage to cook gently, blending seamlessly with other ingredients like savory meats, aromatic herbs, and spices. This method not only enhances the taste but also preserves the nutritional value of the vegetables.

Plus, it’s a great way to make a budget-friendly, wholesome meal that can feed a family or provide leftovers for the week ahead.

Get ready to enjoy tender, melt-in-your-mouth cabbage infused with rich flavors, all made effortlessly in your slow cooker. Let’s dive into this delightful slow cooker cabbage recipe that will soon become a favorite in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This slow cooker cabbage recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. It’s ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a no-fuss meal that still feels special.

Hands-off cooking: Just prepare the ingredients, set the slow cooker, and let it work its magic. No need for constant stirring or monitoring.

Flavorful and tender: Slow cooking breaks down the cabbage and other ingredients, resulting in a soft, flavorful dish that’s comforting and satisfying.

Nutritious and budget-friendly: Cabbage is packed with vitamins and fiber, and this recipe uses affordable ingredients that stretch to feed multiple servings.

Whether you’re a slow cooker novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy cabbage in a new and delicious way.

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped into large chunks
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey (optional for a vegetarian version)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large carrots, sliced
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Equipment

• Slow cooker (at least 4-quart capacity)
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Large skillet (for browning meat, optional)
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Instructions

1. Prepare the cabbage: Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage and rinse well. Cut the cabbage into large chunks and set aside.
2. Brown the meat (optional): Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
4. Combine ingredients in slow cooker: Add the browned meat (if using), sautéed vegetables, chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato paste, and broth to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
5. Add seasonings: Sprinkle in smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Toss in the bay leaf.
6. Cook low and slow: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and flavors have melded beautifully. For a quicker option, cook on high for 3-4 hours.
7. Final touches: Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If the mixture is too liquidy, you can leave the lid off for the last 30 minutes to allow some liquid to evaporate.
8. Serve warm: Spoon the cabbage mixture into bowls or plates, pairing with your favorite sides or breads.

Tips & Variations

“For a vegetarian option, simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth. Add extra beans or lentils for protein.”

• Spice it up: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Change the protein: Swap ground beef for sausage, chicken pieces, or even smoked ham for a different flavor profile.
• Make it creamy: Stir in some sour cream or cream cheese just before serving to add richness.
• Add potatoes: Dice a couple of potatoes and add them with the other vegetables for a heartier meal.
• Use different cabbages: Try savoy or red cabbage for a colorful and slightly different taste.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This slow cooker cabbage dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, serve it alongside warm crusty bread or garlic mashed potatoes.

It also goes well with cooked rice or quinoa for a wholesome bowl.

For a lighter option, a simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil complements the richness of the cabbage stew beautifully. You can also garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a burst of freshness.

Don’t forget to check out other comforting slow cooker recipes on our blog like Slow Cooker Beef Stew, Slow Cooker Chicken and Rice, and Slow Cooker Lentil Soup for more delicious ideas.

Conclusion

Slow cooker cabbage recipes are a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious, comforting dish with minimal effort. This recipe highlights how simple ingredients like cabbage, tomatoes, and aromatic vegetables can come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal.

The slow cooker does the hard work, infusing every bite with rich, tender goodness.

Perfect for busy households, this recipe is both budget-friendly and versatile, allowing you to customize according to your preferences. Whether you’re new to slow cooking or a seasoned fan, this cabbage recipe is a wonderful addition to your recipe collection.

So next time you’re craving a warm, wholesome meal, give this slow cooker cabbage recipe a try—you might be surprised at just how delicious and comforting cabbage can be!

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