Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls: 4 Irresistible Perks

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If you’ve ever wanted to love cabbage rolls but felt your schedule had other plans, Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are your new weeknight hero. No fussing with rolling leaves, no boiling, no swearing at cabbage that refuses to cooperate—just hearty, saucy goodness that practically makes itself while you live your life.

For me, this recipe was a lifesaver during a week when my to-do list looked like it was breeding in the dark. I tossed everything in my slow cooker, went about my day, and came home to a kitchen that smelled like a warm hug from my Eastern European grandmother (who doesn’t actually exist, but if she did, she’d be proud).

Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Recipe

It’s ridiculously easy. No rolling leaves or layering. Just chop, stir, and let the slow cooker work its magic.
All-day flavor with almost no hands-on time. Your slow cooker turns simple ingredients into something you’ll want seconds (and thirds) of.
Budget-friendly. Ground beef, cabbage, and pantry staples stretch into a full, satisfying meal.
Family-friendly. Even picky eaters tend to love the hearty, tomato-y flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Meat Mixture

1 pound ground beef
1 yellow onion, diced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 teaspoons dried parsley
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon kosher salt

For the Cabbage and Sauce

1 small head green cabbage
14-ounce can petite diced tomatoes
6-ounce can tomato paste
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup water

How to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a skillet over medium-high heat, crumble and brown the ground beef until just a hint of pink remains.
Drain any excess fat.
Add diced onion, thyme, parsley, red pepper flakes, and salt. Cook for 3–5 minutes until onions start to soften.
Transfer this mixture to your slow cooker.

Step 2: Prepare the Cabbage
Chop the cabbage into 1-inch pieces—nothing fancy, just bite-sized comfort.
Add directly to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a large measuring cup or mixing bowl, combine diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water.
Stir until well blended, then pour over the beef and cabbage mixture.
Gently stir to coat everything evenly.

Step 4: Let the Magic Happen
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours.
If you’re home, give it a stir halfway through for even flavor distribution.
Serve hot over rice, mashed potatoes, or even egg noodles if you’re feeling wild.

Tips for Perfect Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Want it spicier? Swap the red pepper flakes for a pinch of cayenne or add hot sauce at serving time.
Make it ahead. Assemble everything in your slow cooker insert the night before, refrigerate, then start cooking in the morning.
Go low and slow. Resist the urge to cook on high—this dish shines when the cabbage gets that melt-in-your-mouth tenderness.

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls with tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, carrots, and tomatoes in a rich savory sauce. — These Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are packed with cabbage, beef, carrots, and tomatoes for a hearty, flavor-filled dinner without the extra work.

FAQs About Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great, though you may want to add an extra pinch of salt and a splash of olive oil for richness.

How do I store leftovers?

Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Do I have to serve it over rice?

Nope! It’s just as delicious with crusty bread for dipping, or even on its own as a hearty stew.

Bringing It All Together

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are proof that comfort food doesn’t have to come with kitchen chaos. With just a few minutes of prep, you can enjoy all the cozy, saucy flavors of traditional cabbage rolls—without the rolling, boiling, or babysitting.

So next time life feels a little too full, toss these ingredients into your slow cooker and let dinner take care of itself. Your house will smell amazing, your stomach will be happy, and your evening will feel just a little bit more peaceful.

More Slow Cooker Comfort Food You’ll Love

If this Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe has you craving more set-it-and-forget-it goodness, you’ll love exploring these other hearty and flavor-packed ideas:

Cozy up with a bowl of rich and savory Slow Cooker Beef Stew for the ultimate cold-weather comfort.
Try the smoky-sweet flavors of Crockpot Pineapple BBQ Chicken for an easy weeknight twist.
Add a little spice to your dinner rotation with the bold and tender Slow Cooker Korean Beef.
Satisfy your pasta cravings with the creamy, cheesy goodness of Crock Pot Baked Ziti.

These recipes all bring the same simplicity and big flavor you love—perfect for busy days when you still want a homemade dinner without the stress.