why make this recipe
Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls is an easy and comforting dish that captures the flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls but without all the fuss. This recipe saves time by cooking everything in a slow cooker, allowing the ingredients to blend beautifully while you go about your day. It’s perfect for busy weeknights and feeds a crowd, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or gatherings. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies, making it both hearty and nutritious.
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Ingredients:
- 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:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until slightly pink. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion and seasonings to the skillet; cook until the onions soften.
- Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker along with the chopped cabbage.
- In a mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water; stir well.
- Pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker and mix gently.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
how to serve Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Once cooked, give the mixture a good stir to combine everything nicely. Serve it hot, topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess. This dish goes great with a side of crusty bread, rice, or even on its own. Enjoy it in a bowl for a cozy meal.
how to store Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
tips to make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
- For extra flavor, you can add minced garlic when you sauté the onions.
- If you’re not a fan of beef, feel free to substitute with ground turkey or sausage.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste. If you like a little heat, add more red pepper flakes.
- Serve it with a side salad to balance the meal and add some freshness.
variation
You can easily make this recipe vegetarian by substituting the ground beef with lentils or a meat substitute, and add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cabbage in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cabbage. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the slow cooker.How do I know when the dish is done?
The dish will be done when the cabbage is tender and the beef is thoroughly cooked. This usually takes 6-8 hours on low heat.Can I use other meats?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even a mix of meats can work well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time if needed.

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
- Total Time: 495 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting slow cooker dish that encapsulates the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the fuss.
Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until slightly pink. Drain excess fat.
- Add diced onion and seasonings to the skillet; cook until the onions soften.
- Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker along with the chopped cabbage.
- In a mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water; stir well.
- Pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker and mix gently.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Notes
Serve hot, topped with fresh parsley or sour cream. Pairs well with crusty bread or rice.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 480 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
