Name: Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Ingredients: 1 medium green cabbage, chopped; 1 lb ground beef; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 large onion, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cans tomato sauce (15 oz each); 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 2 cups beef broth; 2 tbsp brown sugar; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp paprika; 2 bay leaves; Salt & pepper to taste

There’s nothing like a big, hearty plate of cabbage rolls… but let’s be honest, making them the traditional way can be time-consuming. That’s where slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls come to the rescue! Instead of spending hours rolling and layering, you toss everything into your slow cooker, set it, and forget it. The result? The same comforting flavors of classic cabbage rolls but with a fraction of the work.

In this easy, family-friendly recipe, tender cabbage, savory ground beef, fluffy rice, and a rich tomato sauce simmer together slowly until everything is perfectly melded. It’s the kind of cozy dinner you crave on chilly nights when you want something warm and filling without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe is also highly adaptable. You can make it with ground turkey, add extra veggies, make it low-carb, or even spice it up with a little heat. Plus, it freezes beautifully, making it a great make-ahead meal.

Whether you call them unstuffed cabbage rolls, lazy cabbage rolls, or a deconstructed cabbage roll casserole, one thing’s certain: this slow cooker recipe will quickly become a weeknight favorite.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 6 hours | Difficulty: Easy | Servings: 6

What Makes This Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe Special?

Effortless Prep: No rolling, no layering, no fuss — just toss, stir, and slow cook.
One-Pot Comfort Food: Everything cooks in your slow cooker, making cleanup a breeze.
Customizable Flavors: Swap proteins, adjust spices, or add extra veggies to suit your taste.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Freezes well and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for busy weeks.
Family-Friendly Favorite: Kids love it, adults crave it, and it’s budget-friendly, too.

Ingredient Notes

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why it matters:

Green Cabbage (1 medium head, about 6 cups chopped): The star ingredient. Use green cabbage for its tender texture and mild flavor. Savoy cabbage works, too.
Ground Beef (1 lb): Gives the dish hearty flavor. You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles for a lighter option.
Cooked Rice (1 cup): Adds bulk and classic cabbage roll texture. Brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice can be swapped in.
Onion (1 large, diced): Adds depth and sweetness. Yellow or white onions both work.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic brings out the best savory flavor.
Tomato Sauce (2 cans, 15 oz each): Creates a rich base. You can also use crushed tomatoes for a chunkier texture.
Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz): Adds extra juiciness and tang.
Beef Broth (2 cups): Keeps everything moist and flavorful while cooking. Chicken broth works, too.
Brown Sugar (2 tbsp): Balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Honey can be used instead.
Apple Cider Vinegar (1 tbsp): Brightens up the flavor and enhances the tanginess.
Seasonings:
- Salt & Pepper (to taste): Brings everything together.
- Paprika (1 tsp): Adds a subtle smokiness.
- Bay Leaves (2): Optional, but they deepen the flavor while simmering.

How To Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces (about 1-inch squares).
Dice the onion and mince the garlic.

Tip: To save time, buy pre-shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink.
Drain excess grease to avoid a greasy sauce.

Tip: If using lean beef or turkey, you can skip draining.

Step 3: Layer and Mix

Add the chopped cabbage, browned beef, onions, garlic, rice, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, broth, brown sugar, vinegar, paprika, and seasonings into the slow cooker.
Stir everything well so flavors combine evenly.

Step 4: Slow Cook

Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the cabbage is tender and the sauce is rich.
Stir halfway through if possible for even cooking.

Step 5: Taste and Serve

Remove bay leaves, taste, and adjust seasoning.
Serve hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream or fresh parsley if desired.

Storage Options

Room Temperature: Not recommended beyond 2 hours.
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in meal-sized portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating: Warm in a pot over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring often.

Variations and Substitutions

Low-Carb Version: Use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with lentils or plant-based crumbles.
Cheesy Upgrade: Stir in shredded mozzarella or cheddar before serving.
Seasonal Swap: Use napa cabbage or savoy cabbage for a different texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use uncooked rice instead of cooked rice?
Yes, but reduce the broth by ½ cup and cook on LOW for 7 hours to ensure it cooks fully.

2. Do I need to sauté the beef first?
Browning adds flavor and removes excess fat, but you can skip it if you’re short on time.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble ingredients in the slow cooker insert the night before, refrigerate, then cook the next day.

4. How do I keep the cabbage from getting mushy?
Don’t overcook. Stick to LOW for 6-7 hours max for tender but not soggy cabbage.

5. Can I make this in an Instant Pot instead?
Yes! Pressure cook on HIGH for 15 minutes, then quick-release.

6. Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
Yes! Freeze fully cooked portions for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

If you’ve been craving cozy comfort food without the hassle, these slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls are the answer. With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and a set-it-and-forget-it method, this recipe delivers all the classic flavors you love — minus the rolling and fuss.

Make a big batch, freeze some for later, and enjoy a warm, hearty dinner any night of the week. Give it a try and let me know how your family loves it!