Name: Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-486905H26M36S
Total time: 6 h 15 min
Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients: 1½ lb ground beef (or ground turkey); 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small head cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups); 1 cup uncooked white rice; 1 (14-oz) can diced tomatoes; 1 (8-oz) can tomato sauce; 2 Tbsp tomato paste; 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional garnish: chopped parsley or grated Parmesan

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All the comforting, savory flavors of classic cabbage rolls—without the fuss of stuffing—made easy in the slow cooker. Tender ground meat, cabbage, and rice swim in a tangy tomato sauce for a hands-off, hearty meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

All‑in‑one comfort food with minimal prep
No tedious rolling—just layer and slow cook
Tender cabbage soaks up tomato-y, meaty goodness
Great for busy days or easy meal prep

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1½ lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small head cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
1 cup uncooked white rice
1 (14‑oz) can diced tomatoes
1 (8‑oz) can tomato sauce
2 Tbsp tomato paste
1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional garnish: chopped parsley or grated Parmesan

Directions

Brown meat & onion: In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef (or turkey), onion, and garlic until meat is no longer pink. Drain excess fat.
Layer ingredients: In the slow cooker, place half the chopped cabbage, then half the rice. Top with cooked meat and onion mixture. Add remaining cabbage and rice.
Add sauce & seasoning: Stir together diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour mixture evenly over ingredients in the cooker.
Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until cabbage is tender and rice is cooked through.
Stir & serve: Stir gently to combine before serving. Garnish with parsley or Parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6–8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 6–7 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
Total time: ~6 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian version: Omit meat; add extra rice or beans and cook as directed
Spicy twist: Add ½ tsp crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce
Cheesy top: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last 15 minutes of cooking
Rice alternatives: Use quinoa or cauliflower rice (adjust cook time accordingly)
Herby boost: Add fresh basil or thyme before serving

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover unstuffed cabbage in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or tomato sauce. You can also freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months—thaw overnight and warm thoroughly before serving.

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

FAQs

What happens if I add raw rice?

This recipe uses uncooked rice, which cooks fully along with the meat and cabbage during the slow-cook process.

Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes—use about 2½ cups pre-cooked rice. Add it during the last hour of cooking to avoid mushiness.

Do I need to brown the meat?

Browning adds flavor and helps reduce grease, but you can skip it if pressed for time.

Can I use a different meat?

Certainly—ground turkey, chicken, or a blend all work well.

Is this gluten-free?

Yes—just ensure tomato products and Worcestershire sauce are labeled gluten-free.

How do I keep the cabbage from getting too soft?

Check doneness about 30 minutes before end time and reduce cooking if cabbage is already tender.

Can I make this on the stovetop?

Yes—sauté ingredients in a large pot, cover, and simmer on low for ~45 minutes until rice and cabbage are tender.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes—use a larger slow cooker. Cooking time remains similar, though it may take slightly longer.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely—try carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms added with the sauce.

What should I serve this with?

Great topped with sour cream or Greek yogurt and served alongside crusty bread or a green salad.

Conclusion

These Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls deliver all the warmth and flavor of traditional cabbage rolls in a stress-free format. Packed with tender cabbage, savory ground meat, and hearty rice—all in a tangy tomato base—they’re perfect for busy meals and simple comfort. Enjoy every easy, satisfying bite!

Sophia