Why Make This Recipe
Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are a wonderful twist on a classic dish. This recipe takes all the great flavors of traditional cabbage rolls and simplifies the cooking process. Using a slow cooker means you can set it and forget it, making it perfect for busy days. Plus, it’s a great way to enjoy healthy ingredients like cabbage and tomatoes without any fuss.
How to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
- 14-ounce can petite diced tomatoes
- 6-ounce can tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup water
Directions:
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until slightly pink. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and seasonings to the skillet; cook until onions soften.
- Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker along with the chopped cabbage.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water; stir well.
- Pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker, and mix gently.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
How to Serve Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls can be served hot right from the slow cooker. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a nice touch. This dish pairs well with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
How to Store Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Make sure to cool the dish completely before sealing it. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Tips to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
- Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Adjust the spice levels by adding more or less red pepper flakes based on your taste.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or your favorite meat alternative.
Variation
You can adapt this recipe by using different types of meat such as turkey or pork. You may also experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your preference.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cabbage?
Yes, you can use frozen cabbage. Just make sure to thaw and chop it before adding it to the slow cooker.
2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Check that the Worcestershire sauce is gluten-free or use a suitable alternative.
3. Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or even mushrooms for added flavor.

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
A simplified version of traditional cabbage rolls made effortlessly in a slow cooker.
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
- 14-ounce can petite diced tomatoes
- 6-ounce can tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until slightly pink. Drain excess fat.
- Add the diced onion and seasonings to the skillet; cook until onions soften.
- Transfer the meat mixture to the slow cooker along with the chopped cabbage.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water; stir well.
- Pour the sauce over the meat and cabbage in the slow cooker, and mix gently.
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Notes
Serve hot with fresh parsley and pair with crusty bread or rice. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: None
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: cabbage rolls, slow cooker, easy dinner, healthy meal
