Step 2: Brown the Ground Meat (Optional but Recommended)
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef (or turkey/sausage) until browned.
- Drain excess grease and add the diced onion and garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker.
💡 Tip: While this step is optional, browning the meat enhances the flavor and prevents excess grease in the slow cooker.
Step 3: Dump Everything in the Slow Cooker
- Add the chopped cabbage to the slow cooker.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth.
- Add the carrot, bell pepper (if using), rice (if using), and all the seasonings (paprika, Italian seasoning, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes).
- Stir everything together to distribute the flavors evenly.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
- Cover and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours until the cabbage and vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
💡 Tip: If using brown rice, it’s best to add it at the beginning. If using white rice, add it during the last 1.5 hours of cooking to prevent overcooking.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Give everything a good stir before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious broth.
Why This Recipe is a Winner
✅ Effortless: Just dump everything into the slow cooker, set it, and forget it!
✅ Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients like cabbage, ground meat, and canned tomatoes.
✅ Nutritious: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and protein for a healthy, balanced meal.
✅ Crowd-Pleaser: The rich, comforting flavors will make your guests crave it over and over!
✅ Versatile: Swap the meat, add beans for a vegetarian option, or adjust the seasonings to your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Slow Cooker Dump Cabbage Meal is the perfect blend of convenience and comfort food. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just making a cozy family meal, this dish is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
Try it out and watch your guests fall in love with every bite! Would you add anything extra to make it your own? Let me know in the comments! 😊
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