Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

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on February 2, 2026


Slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls are a simple and tasty dish that brings great flavors together with ease. This recipe takes the traditional stuffed cabbage rolls and simplifies them, allowing you to enjoy this comforting meal without the fuss. It combines ground beef, fresh cabbage, and tomatoes, cooking them slowly to create a rich and hearty dish. The slow cooker does all the work while you go about your day.

In just a few hours, your kitchen will fill with the delightful smell of this warm meal. This unstuffed version is perfect for busy weeknights or when you have guests. You can serve it over rice or in wraps, making it versatile for everyone. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, so cleanup is a breeze!

Using a slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you tender beef and perfectly cooked cabbage. This recipe keeps it simple and delicious, making it a favorite for many families.

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

You will love this meal for its ease and flavor. It’s rich and comforting, perfect for any dinner. The blend of ingredients comes together beautifully in the slow cooker, making it great for busy days. Plus, you can enjoy leftovers the next day, making it a smart choice for meal planning.

How to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 lb ground beef
1 head of cabbage, chopped
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Rice or wraps for serving

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. In a slow cooker, combine the ground beef, chopped cabbage, diced onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Stir to mix all the ingredients.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
  4. Serve over cooked rice or in wraps. Enjoy your meal!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Serve this dish over a scoop of fluffy rice or wrap it in your favorite flatbread. You can also sprinkle some cheese or fresh herbs on top for added flavor. Pair it with a simple salad or some crusty bread to complete your meal.

How to Store Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

  • For extra flavor, try adding some spices like oregano or basil.
  • Make sure to chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
  • If you want a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes.

Recipe Variations

You can easily customize this recipe. If you prefer, use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef. Adding different vegetables, like bell peppers or carrots, can also enhance the flavor and nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or a meat substitute to create a delicious vegetarian version.

How long does it take to cook in the slow cooker?
If you cook on low heat, it takes about 6-8 hours, and on high heat, around 3-4 hours.

Can I add cheese to the recipe?
Absolutely! Stir some shredded cheese into the mixture before serving or sprinkle it on top for added flavor and creaminess.

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slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls 2026 01 29 154626 1

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

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A simple and tasty dish that combines ground beef, fresh cabbage, and tomatoes, cooked slowly for a rich and hearty meal.

  • Total Time: 255 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 head of cabbage, chopped
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Rice or wraps for serving

Instructions

  1. In a slow cooker, combine the ground beef, chopped cabbage, diced onion, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Stir to mix all the ingredients.
  3. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
  4. Serve over cooked rice or in wraps. Enjoy your meal!

Notes

For added flavor, consider adding spices like oregano or basil. Feel free to customize with different ground meats or vegetables.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 7g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg

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