If you love the comforting, hearty flavors of classic cabbage rolls but dread the laborious rolling process, you are in for a treat with this fantastic Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe. This dish captures all the savory goodness of traditional cabbage rolls—rich ground beef, tender cabbage, and a tangy tomato sauce—without the fuss. Perfectly melding simple ingredients into a cozy, crowd-pleasing meal, Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are an effortless way to enjoy a timeless favorite any day of the week.

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls dish lies in its straightforward, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a vital role, creating layers of flavor, wonderful textures, and a vibrant presentation that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

1 pound ground beef: Provides a hearty, savory base packed with protein and richness.
1 yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed, balancing the meat beautifully.
1 small head green cabbage, chopped: Gives the dish a nutritious crunch that softens into tender bites during slow cooking.
14-ounce can petite diced tomatoes: Brings brightness and a fresh tomato flavor that complements every spoonful.
6-ounce can tomato paste: Intensifies the sauce with a smooth, concentrated tomato essence.
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Adds a subtle umami kick, boosting savory notes with every mouthful.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses aromatic herbal warmth without overpowering the dish.
2 teaspoons dried parsley: Delivers a mild, fresh herb flavor and a pop of color.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Introduces just a hint of heat to balance the sweetness.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
1/2 cup water: Helps create the perfect sauce consistency while slow cooking.

How to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by browning one pound of ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. You want the meat to cook until it’s just slightly pink but not fully done. This ensures it remains juicy and flavorful. Once browned, drain off any excess fat to keep the dish from becoming greasy, setting a great foundation for your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Seasonings

Next, toss your diced yellow onion into the same skillet along with your chosen herbs and spices. Cook until the onions soften and become translucent. This step builds a fragrant, flavorful base, as the heat releases the sweet aromas and melds the seasonings beautifully into the meat mixture.

Step 3: Combine Meat and Cabbage in the Slow Cooker

Transfer the savory meat and onion blend into your slow cooker, then add the chopped green cabbage on top. The cabbage will slowly wilt and absorb all the wonderful flavors, turning tender without losing its wonderful texture.

Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

In a separate bowl, stir together petite diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. This rich, tangy sauce is what ties all the ingredients together, giving this dish its signature taste and comforting warmth.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Mix Gently

Pour your homemade tomato sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker, then mix gently just to evenly distribute the sauce throughout. This helps every bite stay juicy and evenly flavored as it cooks.

Step 6: Slow Cook to Perfection

Cover your slow cooker and let the magic happen on low for 6 to 8 hours. This long, slow simmer melds the flavors, tenderizes the cabbage, and results in a richly satisfying dish that tastes like it was simmered all day.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Garnishes

Brighten your serving plate with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dollop of sour cream. These garnishes add freshness and a creamy contrast that elevate the warm, hearty flavors of Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like buttery mashed potatoes, crusty bread to soak up the sauce, or a crisp green salad to add freshness. These accompaniments round out the meal perfectly without competing with the main star.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls over cooked rice or egg noodles to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce. You can also spoon it into warm pita bread for a comforting handheld meal that’s both satisfying and portable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen with time, making it even better the next day.

Freezing

This recipe freezes beautifully! Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Just make sure everything is completely cooled before freezing to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to warm evenly. You can also microwave single portions, covering loosely to keep moisture locked in and prevent drying.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work well for a lighter version, though the flavor profile will be a little different. Just be sure to adjust cooking time if needed to ensure the meat is fully cooked.

Do I need to pre-cook the cabbage?

No need to pre-cook the cabbage. Since it cooks low and slow in the slow cooker, it will soften perfectly and soak up all the delicious flavors from the sauce and meat mixture.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

If you’re out of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce or a splash of balsamic vinegar can be a great substitute to maintain that deep umami flavor.

Can I make this recipe on the stovetop instead?

Yes, you can! Simply simmer all the ingredients in a large pot on low heat for about 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as any Worcestershire sauce you use is gluten-free. Always double-check labels if you have a gluten sensitivity.

Final Thoughts

It’s truly hard to beat the cozy comfort and effortless preparation of Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this dish brings warmth and deliciousness to the table with minimal fuss. I hope you give this recipe a try and discover how easy and rewarding making classic flavors in a slow cooker can be. Your taste buds will thank you!

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 15 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Fat

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Description

This Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe offers all the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage without the fuss. Ground beef, cabbage, and a savory tomato sauce simmer slowly in the crockpot, creating a hearty and easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

Instructions

Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until it is just slightly pink in the center, then drain off any excess fat to keep the dish lean.
Sauté Onions and Season: Add the diced yellow onion, dried thyme, dried parsley, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt to the skillet. Cook the mixture until the onions become soft and translucent, which helps develop the dish’s flavor.
Prepare the Slow Cooker: Transfer the cooked meat and onion mixture into the slow cooker. Add the chopped green cabbage on top.
Make the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine the petite diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. Stir well to create a rich tomato sauce that will cook and mingle with the meat and cabbage.
Add the Sauce: Pour the tomato sauce evenly over the cabbage and meat mixture in the slow cooker. Gently stir to combine the ingredients without breaking up the cabbage too much.
Cook Low and Slow: Cover the slow cooker and cook on the low setting for 6 to 8 hours. This gradual cooking process allows all the flavors to meld together perfectly and tenderizes the cabbage.

Notes

For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
If you prefer some spice, increase the red pepper flakes slightly or add a dash of hot sauce.
Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Serve over steamed rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American