Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

If you love the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but want an easier, fuss-free version, you are going to adore this Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe. It takes all the hearty goodness of classic stuffed cabbage without the hassle of rolling each piece individually. The tender cabbage mingles perfectly with seasoned ground beef and a rich, tangy tomato sauce, all slow-cooked to melt-in-your-mouth perfection. This dish is a cozy, hands-off meal that fills your home with inviting aromas and delivers ultimate comfort in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe sticks to simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully to create layers of flavor and satisfying texture. Each element has a specific role, from the cabbage’s mellow crunch to the savory depth brought by Worcestershire sauce and herbs, ensuring every bite is just right.

• 1 pound ground beef: Picking lean ground beef helps keep the dish hearty without being greasy.
• 1 yellow onion, diced: Onion adds a subtle sweetness and enhances the overall savory profile.
• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped: Cabbage is the star veggie that softens perfectly in the slow cooker, soaking up all the flavors.
• 14-ounce can petite diced tomatoes: These provide fresh tomato chunks that lighten the sauce and add texture.
• 6-ounce can tomato paste: Tomato paste brings rich, concentrated tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce: This ingredient adds a tasty umami punch with subtle tanginess.
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme contributes gentle earthy notes to balance the tomatoes.
• 2 teaspoons dried parsley: Parsley brightens the dish with a mild herbal touch.
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Just a hint of heat wakes up the flavors without overpowering.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all ingredients together.
• 1/2 cup water: Adds moisture to help everything cook evenly in the slow cooker.

How to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef

Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat and browning the ground beef until it is just slightly pink — this ensures the meat remains juicy and tender. Once browned, drain any excess fat, which helps keep the dish from becoming greasy.

Step 2: Cook the Onions and Season

Add the diced yellow onion to the skillet with the meat along with salt, dried thyme, parsley, and red pepper flakes. Let the onions soften and release their natural sweetness while the spices bloom with the heat. This builds a flavorful base for your unstuffed rolls.

Step 3: Combine with Cabbage in Slow Cooker

Transfer the browned, seasoned meat and onions into your slow cooker. Next, add the chopped green cabbage, spreading it evenly on top to begin melding its fresh crunch with the savory filling.

Step 4: Mix and Pour the Tomato Sauce

In a separate bowl, stir together the petite diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water until well combined. Pour this bright, tangy sauce over the meat and cabbage. Gently mix everything together to coat the ingredients without breaking up the cabbage too much.

Step 5: Slow Cook Until Tender

Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. During this time, the flavors marry beautifully and the cabbage softens just right—creating that classic cabbage roll experience without the rolling!

How to Serve Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Garnishes

Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or a dollop of sour cream on top to introduce a fresh, creamy contrast that complements the tangy tomato sauce and tender beef. A few extra red pepper flakes can add a kick if you like it spicy.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with buttered mashed potatoes or fluffy rice, which soak up every bit of the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, steamed green beans or roasted carrots provide a nice balance in texture and color.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to mix things up? Serve the Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls over cooked egg noodles for a hearty casserole-style meal or stuff the mixture inside baked potatoes for a comforting twist. Spoon it over polenta for a cozy, rustic dinner that never disappoints.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer leftovers into airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, so leftovers are often even better the next day.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls in portion-sized containers. They can keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the texture just right.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much to keep everything moist and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works well for a leaner option, though the flavor will be a bit milder. You might want to add an extra sprinkle of seasoning to boost the taste.

Do I need to pre-cook the cabbage?

Nope! The chopped cabbage softens perfectly during the slow cooking process, so no need for pre-cooking—this saves you time and keeps the recipe simple.

How spicy is this dish?

The recipe includes just a touch of red pepper flakes for mild warmth. You can adjust the heat level up or down based on your preference.

Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can use the slow cooker function on an Instant Pot. Alternatively, cook on the “Slow Cook” setting for 6-8 hours. Using the pressure cook setting may require some recipe adjustments.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just double-check the Worcestershire sauce to ensure it’s gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend giving this Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe a try enough. It’s pure comfort food magic without the fuss, perfect for busy days or anytime you want a hearty, home-cooked meal with minimal effort. Once you make it, this cozy dish will surely become a beloved staple in your recipe rotation.

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