Crockpot Cabbage and Noodles
Prep Time: 15 minutesCook Time: 4–6 hoursTotal Time: 4 hours 15 minutes–6 hours 15 minutesServings: 6Course: Main Dish, Side DishCuisine: AmericanMethod: Slow CookerDescriptionThis Crockpot Cabbage and Noodles recipe combines tender cabbage, buttery egg noodles, sweet onion, garlic, and simple seasonings for an easy comfort-food dinner. Add smoked sausage, bacon, or ham when you want to make it even heartier.Ingredients1 medium green cabbage, cored and chopped12 oz wide egg noodles1 large yellow onion, sliced3–4 garlic cloves, minced4 tablespoons butter1 cup chicken or vegetable broth1 teaspoon salt, or to taste½ teaspoon black pepper½ teaspoon garlic powder½ teaspoon onion powder½ teaspoon smoked paprika, optional2 tablespoons fresh parsley, choppedOptional Add-Ins12–14 oz smoked sausage or kielbasa, sliced6 slices cooked bacon, crumbled1–2 cups diced cooked ham½ cup grated Parmesan cheese¼ teaspoon red pepper flakesInstructions1. Prepare the CabbageRemove any damaged outer leaves from the cabbage. Cut it into quarters, remove the tough core, and chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces.2. Fill the CrockpotAdd the chopped cabbage and sliced onion to your slow cooker. Add the garlic, butter, broth, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.Gently toss to distribute the seasonings.3. Slow CookCover and cook on LOW for 4–6 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the cabbage reaches your preferred tenderness.4. Cook the NoodlesNear the end of the cooking time, prepare the egg noodles in salted boiling water according to the package directions. Cook just until al dente, then drain well.5. CombineAdd the cooked noodles to the crockpot and gently toss them with the cabbage mixture until everything is evenly combined.6. Finish and ServeTaste and adjust the salt and pepper. Add a little extra butter if you want richer noodles. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.NotesDon't overcook the egg noodles because they'll soften slightly after being mixed with the hot cabbage.Add the noodles close to serving time to prevent them from becoming mushy.Avoid adding too much broth because cabbage releases moisture as it cooks.For a heartier meal, add sliced smoked sausage, kielbasa, bacon, or cooked ham.Parmesan and red pepper flakes make easy finishing additions.Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.Serving SuggestionsServe Crockpot Cabbage and Noodles on its own for a simple meal or pair it with:Smoked sausageRoasted chickenPork chopsMeatloafHamCrusty bread or dinner rollsFresh green saladTip: For the best texture, slow-cook the cabbage first and stir in freshly cooked egg noodles shortly before serving.