Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are the perfect comfort food when you want all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the fuss of rolling each one. This dish combines tender ground beef, savory tomato sauce, and soft cabbage cooked slowly until everything melds together beautifully. The result is a warm, hearty meal that’s full of comforting, familiar tastes.
I love making this recipe on busy days because the slow cooker does all the work for me. I just toss in the ingredients in layers, set it, and forget it until it’s ready. It’s a great way to enjoy all those cozy cabbage roll flavors without the extra time standing over the stove. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser—everyone always asks for seconds!
One of my favorite ways to serve it is with a dollop of sour cream on top and a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It’s like a big, warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a little home-cooked goodness. I sometimes add a sprinkle of fresh parsley to brighten it up, but honestly, it’s wonderful just as it is.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is the star here. Its tender leaves soak up the sauce nicely. If you prefer a milder taste, try using Savoy cabbage or even Napa cabbage as a softer alternative.
Ground Beef: This adds richness and heartiness. I often swap in ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, but beef gives the best classic flavor.
Rice: Uncooked long grain white rice is used to absorb the tomato sauce as it cooks. Feel free to substitute with brown rice, but increase cooking time as it takes longer to soften.
Tomato Sauce & Diced Tomatoes: These create a tangy and comforting sauce. You can use crushed tomatoes for a thicker texture or tomato puree if you want it smoother.
Worcestershire Sauce: It adds depth and a slight tang. If you don’t have it, a splash of soy sauce or a bit of balsamic vinegar works well too.
How Do You Make Sure the Cabbage and Rice Cook Perfectly in the Slow Cooker?
Cooking cabbage and uncooked rice together can be tricky. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Layer Ingredients: Mix everything well in the slow cooker so rice cooks evenly surrounded by liquid.
- Use Enough Liquid: The beef broth and tomato juices keep rice moist and help soften cabbage slow and steady.
- Cook on Low: Low and slow is best. Cabbage gets tender without turning to mush, and rice has time to absorb flavors.
- Check at the End: Near the end, taste for doneness and add salt or pepper if needed. If rice isn’t soft enough, cook a bit longer.
With these tips, you’ll get tender cabbage and fully cooked rice mingling beautifully in the sauce every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Slow cooker – lets you cook the dish all day without fuss, making the cabbage tender and the flavors rich.
- Large skillet – perfect for browning the ground beef and sautéing onions before adding to the slow cooker.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – for chopping the cabbage and onions easily and safely.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps you mix and brown ingredients without scratching your pans.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken – lighter but still tasty and perfect for a leaner meal.
- Add shredded carrots or diced bell peppers – they bring a slight sweetness and extra crunch.
- Stir in a few dashes of hot sauce or cayenne pepper – for a spicy kick if you like heat.
- Top with shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese before serving – melts nicely for a creamy finish.
How to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, roughly chopped
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- ½ cup long grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 cup beef broth (or water)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme)
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 6 to 8 hours cooking time on low in your slow cooker. If you’re short on time, cooking on high will take around 3 to 4 hours. It’s a hands-off meal that gives you the perfect opportunity to relax or focus on other tasks.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook it for about 3 to 4 minutes, until it softens and becomes fragrant. Then add the minced garlic and stir for another minute.
2. Brown the Ground Beef:
Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook until the meat is browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. If there’s extra fat, drain it off to keep the dish from becoming greasy.
3. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:
Transfer the browned ground beef mixture to your slow cooker. Add the chopped cabbage, uncooked rice, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix everything together well so all ingredients are evenly combined.
4. Cook Slowly:
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for 3 to 4 hours. Your goal is to have tender cabbage and fully cooked rice mixed into a rich, flavorful sauce.
5. Finish and Serve:
Before serving, taste the dish and add salt or pepper if needed. Scoop the hearty mixture onto plates and enjoy it warm. If you want, garnish with a dollop of sour cream or some fresh chopped parsley for a nice touch.
Can I Use Frozen Ground Meat for This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the ground beef or turkey before cooking. Thaw it safely in the refrigerator overnight or use the defrost setting on your microwave. This ensures even cooking and prevents excess moisture in the slow cooker.
Can I Substitute Brown Rice for White Rice in This Dish?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind brown rice takes longer to cook, so you might need to extend the slow cooking time by an hour or so to make sure it’s tender.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Make This Recipe in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare it a day ahead, refrigerate it, and then reheat on low in the slow cooker or on the stove before serving. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.