Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Who doesn’t love a comforting meal that practically cooks itself?

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls pack all the flavors of everyone’s favorite stuffed cabbage rolls, minus the tedious prep work. Just toss everything in your slow cooker and let the magic happen! With its hearty beef, savory tomatoes, and crunchy cabbage, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction—a hug on a plate that’s simply irresistible.

Why Make This Recipe

You’ll adore this recipe for several reasons. First off, it’s a major time-saver! Just set and forget it; dinner doesn’t get easier than that. Second, it’s super affordable, so you can feed the whole family without breaking the bank. And let’s be real, who doesn’t appreciate a meal that pleases picky eaters? This unstuffed version means no one has to pick out cabbage leaves, and we all know that’s a win in family dinner negotiations.

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
• 14-ounce can petite diced tomatoes
• 6-ounce can tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup water

Directions

Here’s how to whip up this tasty dish:

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until slightly pink. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the diced onion and seasonings to the skillet; cook until the onions soften.
3. Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker along with the chopped cabbage.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water; stir well.
5. Pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker and mix gently.
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

How to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls (Overview)

Making Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls is as easy as pie (or should I say, as easy as beef and cabbage?). Start by browning that meaty goodness; this boosts the flavor like you wouldn’t believe. After you mix it with the onions and spices, toss it all into the slow cooker. Don’t forget the sauce—it’s key to that cozy, saucy goodness! Pro Tip: Stir everything gently so the cabbage doesn’t get too mushy.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

When you’re ready to dig in, serve it piping hot in a deep bowl and sprinkle with some fresh parsley for a pop of color. It’s a visual feast, with rich red tomato sauce against the green cabbage, and let’s not forget the aroma wafting through the kitchen! For extra crunch, why not serve it with some crusty bread or a crisp green salad? Yum!

How to Store Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Leftovers? You bet! This dish keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just store in an airtight container. If you need it to last longer, pop it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, and you’ll feel like you’re having dinner fresh from the slow cooker again!

Tips to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Here’s what I’ve got for you, amigo:

• Seasoning swap: Try adding a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
• Double the beef: Make it even heartier by upping the ground beef to 1.5 pounds.
• Cabbage alternative: If you’re not a cabbage fan, try chopped kale or spinach instead!
• Flavor boost: Add a tablespoon of sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Warm it up: Toss in a bit of cheese right before serving for that gooey goodness!

Variation

Want to shake things up? Make it vegan by swapping out the beef for lentils or a plant-based meat alternative—just adjust your seasoning accordingly. You can also play around with herbs like basil or oregano for a different flavor twist.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of cabbage?
Absolutely! If you prefer rice, stir in some cooked brown rice at the end for a filling texture.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yep! Prep all your ingredients the night before, so you can just throw it in the slow cooker in the morning.

How do I make it spicy?
Add more red pepper flakes or toss in some jalapeños into the mix—just be careful, you want a kick, not a fire!

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

A comforting and easy meal that combines the flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls without the hassle of preparation.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef Use lean ground beef for less fat.
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped Alternatively, use kale or spinach.
• 14 ounces petite diced tomatoes
• 6 ounces tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Add more for extra heat.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 cup water

Method

 

Preparation

1. Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until slightly pink. Drain excess fat.
2. Add the diced onion and seasonings to the skillet; cook until the onions soften.
3. Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker along with the chopped cabbage.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water; stir well.
5. Pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker and mix gently.

Cooking

1. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave.