Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

If you love the cozy flavors of classic cabbage rolls but don’t have the time to roll each one by hand, these Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are the perfect solution. This hearty, comforting meal delivers all the warm, savory flavors of tender cabbage, seasoned beef, rice, and rich tomato sauce—without the prep work. Everything simmers together in the slow cooker for hours, creating a wholesome dinner that tastes like it came straight from your childhood kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Slow cooker convenience makes it almost entirely hands-off
• All the comforting flavors of classic cabbage rolls, but with none of the rolling
• A hearty, family-friendly weeknight dinner
• Great for meal prep with excellent freezer potential
• Naturally pork-free and customizable
• Ideal for cozy fall and winter cooking

Ingredients

• Ground beef
• Green cabbage
• Cooked rice
• Onion
• Garlic
• Crushed tomatoes
• Tomato sauce
• Paprika
• Dried thyme
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Beef broth

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: Add the ground beef to a skillet and cook until browned. Break it into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
2. Layer the Ingredients: Add chopped cabbage to the bottom of your slow cooker. Layer in the cooked ground beef, diced onion, garlic, cooked rice, and seasonings. Distribute everything evenly so the flavors blend well as they cook.
3. Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth over the mixture. Gently stir to combine while keeping the layers mostly intact.
4. Slow Cook to Perfection: Cover your slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Adjust & Serve: Stir well before serving. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Serve warm with fresh herbs or an extra spoonful of tomato sauce.

Tips & Variations

• Swap the Protein: Use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter version.
• Add Heat: A pinch of chili flakes or paprika can add a cozy warmth.
• Extra Veggies: Add diced carrots, celery, or red bell pepper for more nutrition and color.
• Make It Saucy: Add an extra cup of tomato sauce for a richer, deeper flavor.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace the rice with cauliflower rice (frozen works perfectly).

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors intensify, making the next-day serving even better.
• Freezer: Cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
  To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with warm crusty bread or soft dinner rolls to soak up the sauce.
• A crisp cucumber salad or simple green salad balances the hearty flavors.
• Pair with garlic mashed potatoes for a classic comfort-food combination.
• A cup of herbal tea or sparkling water with lemon makes the meal feel complete.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe without pre-cooking the ground beef?

It’s possible, but pre-cooking ensures the best flavor, texture, and food safety. When the beef browns in a skillet, it releases its richness and seasoning more deeply. Adding it raw may produce excess grease and a softer, less structured texture. Browning the meat first only adds a few minutes and makes a noticeable difference in the final dish.

Can I use uncooked rice instead of cooked?

Using uncooked rice can work, but it changes the moisture balance and cooking time. Because rice absorbs a significant amount of liquid, you’d need to increase the broth and ensure the rice cooks evenly in the slow cooker. For predictable results and the right consistency, cooked rice is the safer choice and keeps the dish from becoming too thick or mushy.

How can I make this recipe more tomato-forward?

If you love bold tomato flavor, increase the crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce by one cup and add a splash of tomato paste for depth. Letting the mixture cook longer in the slow cooker helps concentrate the tomatoes, creating a richer and slightly sweeter sauce that balances perfectly with the cabbage.

Does this dish freeze well after cooking?

Yes, this meal freezes beautifully. The texture of the cabbage softens slightly, but the flavors remain robust, and the beef and rice hold up exceptionally well. Freezing in single portions is ideal for quick lunches or weeknight dinners when you want something comforting without starting from scratch.

Ready to Make It?

If a warm, nourishing, hands-off dinner sounds perfect for your week, these Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls will quickly become a favorite. Save it for later, share it with someone who loves slow cooker meals, or whip up a batch this weekend for a cozy, satisfying meal.

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