Description

This hearty Slow Cooker Cabbage and Ground Beef Stew is a meal your guests will crave over and over. With tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and the perfect blend of herbs, it's an easy "dump and go" recipe that delivers rich flavors with minimal effort. By combining nutritious cabbage and cauliflower rice with flavorful marinara sauce, this dish is not only filling but also packed with healthy ingredients. Ideal for busy weeknights or when you're hosting guests, this slow-cooked meal will leave everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, small diced
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 pounds ground beef
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon pepper
• ¼ cup roughly chopped fresh parsley
• 1 16-ounce jar marinara sauce
• 5 cups water
• ½ head cauliflower, riced
• 1 small cabbage, sliced

Preparation Method

Sauté the Onion and Garlic:

Heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Brown the Ground Beef:

Add the ground beef to the pan with the onions and garlic. Break up the beef as it cooks, browning it evenly for about 5-7 minutes. Season with the dried thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat if necessary.
Prepare the Slow Cooker:

Transfer the browned beef, onions, and garlic to the slow cooker. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of freshness.
Add the Marinara and Water:

Pour the marinara sauce and 5 cups of water into the slow cooker. Stir well to combine, ensuring that the sauce and water evenly coat the meat and seasonings.
Add the Vegetables:

Add the riced cauliflower and sliced cabbage on top of the meat mixture. Gently stir everything together to ensure the vegetables are mixed in with the beef and sauce.
Slow Cook:

Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The cabbage should be tender, and the flavors well combined.
Serve:

Once cooked, give the stew a final stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle the cabbage and beef stew into bowls, and garnish with extra fresh parsley if desired.

Tips and Conclusion

Make it spicier: Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the ground beef while browning for a little heat.
Make it a one-pot meal: If you prefer not to sauté the onions and beef separately, you can add everything directly into the slow cooker. Just be sure to break up the beef well.
Add more veggies: You can bulk this dish up with other vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Storage: This stew keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. It's perfect for meal prep!

This Slow Cooker Cabbage and Ground Beef Stew is a perfect blend of savory beef, tender cabbage, and flavorful herbs, all brought together in a slow cooker for a fuss-free, delicious meal. Whether you’re preparing it for your family or hosting a gathering, this hearty stew will become a go-to recipe that everyone will love. Serve it with crusty bread or enjoy it on its own for a satisfying and comforting dish that’s sure to impress!