Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

If you’re craving all the cozy, comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but want to skip the hassle of rolling each one by hand, this slow-cooked masterpiece is going to become your new go-to. Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls deliver that rich, savory taste packed with seasoned beef, tender cabbage, and a luscious tomato sauce, all melded together in one pot. It’s comfort food at its finest, with minimal effort and maximum flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, straightforward ingredients is the secret to creating an incredibly flavorful dish without fuss. Each ingredient plays an essential role—from the juicy ground beef building hearty texture to the bright acidity of diced tomatoes balancing richness while the herbs add depth and warmth.

• 1 pound ground beef: Provides the hearty foundation and rich protein for the dish.
• 1 yellow onion, diced: Adds a sweet, aromatic base that softens beautifully during cooking.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Offers subtle earthy notes that enhance the savory profile.
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley: Gives a fresh, herbal brightness to balance the heavier components.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Delivers just the right touch of heat without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for enhancing and marrying all the flavors together.
• 1 small head green cabbage: The star veggie that becomes tender and sweet as it stews in the sauce.
• 14-ounce can petite diced tomatoes: Adds a juicy, slightly chunky texture and tangy depth.
• 6-ounce can tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor, thickening the sauce beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: Brings umami richness and a slight tang that elevates the whole dish.
• 1/2 cup water: Balances the sauce consistency so the cabbage cooks perfectly without drying out.

How to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Soften the Onions

Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat and crumbling in the ground beef. Cook until mostly browned with just a hint of pink left inside to keep it juicy. Drain any excess fat if needed. Adding diced onions, thyme, parsley, red pepper flakes, and salt to the skillet will infuse the beef with layers of aromatic flavor. Let everything cook together for 3 to 5 minutes until the onions become fragrant and start softening. This mix forms the savory base awaiting the slow cooker.

Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage

While your skillet magic happens, chop the green cabbage into roughly one-inch pieces—bite-sized chunks that will soak up the delicious sauce as they slowly cook. No rolling or stuffing involved, just simple prep that saves a ton of time while still delivering all the cabbage goodness. Toss these pieces directly into your slow cooker.

Step 3: Mix and Add the Sauce

Grab a mixing bowl or large measuring cup and combine diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water. This sauce will bring tang, richness, and moisture, knitting the entire dish together. Pour the sauce over the ingredients in the slow cooker, then carefully stir everything so the beef, cabbage, and sauce are evenly mixed. This is where the magic of Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls really begins.

Step 4: Slow Cook to Tender Perfection

Set your slow cooker on low and let this comforting blend simmer for 6 to 8 hours. The low heat gently softens the cabbage without turning it mushy, while the flavors deepen and meld beautifully. If you have the chance, stirring once halfway through helps mix flavors and keeps everything evenly cooked. After cooking, your kitchen will smell amazing, and the dish will be ready to serve hot and satisfying.

How to Serve Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a dollop of sour cream adds bright color and a creamy contrast that complements the savory Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls perfectly. For an extra pop, a few grinds of black pepper or a light drizzle of olive oil can elevate the presentation and taste.

Side Dishes

Serve Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls over a fluffy bed of steamed rice to soak up all those luscious juices. Mashed potatoes or buttered egg noodles also pair beautifully, making a hearty and satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug from your favorite comfort foods.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try layering the unstuffed cabbage roll mixture inside baked potatoes or stuffing it into pita pockets with a spoonful of creamy yogurt. Alternatively, spoon this dish over polenta or alongside roasted root vegetables to add more textures and colors on your plate, making every meal feel special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftover Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay delicious for up to 4 days, and flavors often deepen overnight, so leftovers can be even tastier than the first day!

Freezing

This dish freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for easy reheating.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much to bring back that perfect consistency and fresh flavor.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be swapped in for a lighter version, though you might want to add a bit more seasoning to boost flavor since these meats are leaner.

Do I have to chop the cabbage into small pieces?

Chopping the cabbage into roughly one-inch pieces helps it cook evenly and absorb the sauce well. Larger pieces may take longer to soften or cook unevenly.

Can Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls be made on high heat?

You can, but cooking on low is best to tenderize the cabbage gently and develop deep flavors. On high, cooking time shortens but cabbage can get mushy or beef tougher.

Is it possible to add more vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms complement the flavors nicely and add variety. Just chop them similarly to cabbage and add to the slow cooker with the rest.

What can I use if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

A dash of soy sauce mixed with a little vinegar can mimic the savory tang of Worcestershire sauce in a pinch, keeping your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls flavorful.

Final Thoughts

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are pure comfort food made incredibly easy. This recipe brings the spirit of classic cabbage rolls without the fuss of rolling, delivering cozy, satisfying meals with minimal effort. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it a weekly tradition to warm your table and heart.

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