If you love the comfort of classic cabbage rolls but not the arm workout that comes with rolling them—then Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are about to become your new best friend. This dish has all the warm, hearty flavors of the traditional version but in a much simpler, weeknight-friendly format.
As a mom of three who’s always juggling homework, soccer practice, and dinner time (usually all before 7 PM), I can promise you this: this recipe saves both time and sanity. It’s one of those “dump, stir, and walk away” kind of meals that fills your home with the coziest aroma while you go about your day.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love These Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
- Effortless comfort: All the taste of stuffed cabbage rolls—none of the fuss.
- Perfect for busy days: Just 15 minutes of prep and your slow cooker does the rest.
- Budget-friendly: Uses pantry staples and humble ingredients that stretch beautifully for family dinners.
- Healthy comfort food: Protein-packed, veggie-loaded, and naturally gluten-free.
What Do Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls Taste Like?
Imagine a hearty stew that’s equal parts savory, tangy, and satisfying. The beef gives it richness, the cabbage adds sweetness, and the tomatoes bring that bright, saucy punch that ties everything together. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl—simple, comforting, and oh-so-homemade.
Ingredients You’ll Need for Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
When it comes to making Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls, the beauty is in how simple and budget-friendly the ingredients are. Each one plays an important role in creating that cozy, old-fashioned flavor that tastes like it’s been simmering all day — because it has! Let’s break down everything you’ll need, along with a few helpful notes to make sure your dish turns out just right.
- 1 pound ground beef:
Choose 85/15 lean ground beef for the perfect balance of flavor and tenderness. The fat adds richness that carries through every bite of your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls. If you prefer something lighter, ground turkey or chicken also works beautifully. - 1 yellow onion, diced:
The onion adds natural sweetness and depth. For the best flavor, let it soften and caramelize slightly before adding it to the slow cooker. This little step makes your cabbage rolls taste like they’ve been slow-cooked in Grandma’s kitchen. - 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped:
The star of this dish! Fresh green cabbage turns meltingly tender in the slow cooker, absorbing all those tomatoey, meaty juices. Be sure to remove the tough core and chop into bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly. - 1 (14-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes:
These give the sauce its tangy brightness. The smaller tomato pieces blend seamlessly into the dish, coating the cabbage and beef in every spoonful. You can even use fire-roasted diced tomatoes for a subtle smoky twist. - 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste:
Thick, rich, and packed with umami flavor. Tomato paste gives the sauce that hearty depth we crave in slow-cooked comfort meals. It’s what turns simple ingredients into something mouthwateringly cozy. - 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce:
A secret weapon in the flavor department! It adds savory depth and a little tang. Make sure to use a halal-certified Worcestershire sauce to keep this dish wholesome and family-friendly. - 1 teaspoon dried thyme:
This simple herb brings warmth and a hint of earthiness that complements the beef perfectly. It’s subtle but important for achieving that traditional cabbage roll flavor. - 2 teaspoons dried parsley:
A bright finishing herb that lifts the sauce. You can also garnish your cooked Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls with fresh parsley for color and freshness. - ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional):
Just a touch of heat brings balance to the rich tomato base. Feel free to skip this if your crew prefers a milder version, especially for little ones. - 1 teaspoon kosher salt:
Simple seasoning that brings all the flavors together. Start light—you can always add more before serving. - ½ cup water:
A small but mighty ingredient that helps blend the sauce and keeps everything tender during those long, slow hours of cooking.
If you love recipes that use simple pantry staples to create soul-warming meals, you might also enjoy my Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup or this hearty Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup Recipe — both are packed with nourishing ingredients that make dinnertime feel easy and comforting.
How to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
Making Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls is one of those comforting, foolproof recipes that feels like it’s been passed down through generations—but with a modern, mom-approved twist. This step-by-step guide walks you through every detail so you can bring this hearty, nostalgic dish to your table with ease.
The best part? You can set it and forget it, while your kitchen fills with that savory, homey aroma that instantly makes the day feel calmer.
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef (The Flavor Foundation)
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 pound of ground beef and break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
You’ll want to brown it until it’s mostly cooked through, leaving just a hint of pink. This step is key—it builds a rich, meaty base for your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls and keeps the dish from turning greasy.
Once browned, drain off the excess fat. If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken here, but beef gives that classic cabbage roll depth we all love.
Pro Tip: If you’re a soup lover, this step will remind you of the start of my Crockpot Vegetable Beef Soup—same comforting aroma, same cozy vibes.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics and Seasonings
After draining the fat, toss in your diced onion, thyme, parsley, red pepper flakes, and kosher salt right into the skillet. Let them cook together for about 3–4 minutes until the onions turn soft and translucent.
This little extra time on the stovetop allows the herbs to bloom and the onions to caramelize slightly—creating a deep, savory flavor that’s the secret to making your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls taste like they’ve been simmering for hours (even before you plug in your slow cooker).
Step 3: Prep the Cabbage (The Heart of the Dish)
While the meat mixture cooks, take your small head of green cabbage and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Remove the tough core, and aim for roughly 1-inch squares.
Cabbage tends to shrink as it cooks, so don’t worry if it looks like a mountain in your slow cooker—it’ll mellow down beautifully into tender, flavorful strands that soak up every bit of that tangy tomato sauce.
Step 4: Mix Up the Sauce (The Comfort Element)
In a medium bowl, combine:
- 1 (14-ounce) can petite diced tomatoes
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce (halal-friendly)
- ½ cup water
Whisk everything together until it’s smooth and well blended. The tomato paste adds that rich, velvety texture that makes your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls irresistibly hearty.
If you’re a fan of tomato-based comfort meals, you’ll also fall in love with my Crock Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup—it has a similar satisfying tang and depth.
Step 5: Layer Everything in the Slow Cooker
Now comes the easy part. Grab your slow cooker (a 6-quart size works best):
- Add the cooked beef and onion mixture to the bottom.
- Top with the chopped cabbage.
- Pour the tomato sauce mixture evenly over the top.
Give everything a gentle stir to combine, but don’t overmix—just enough to let the sauce coat the cabbage and beef.
This layering method helps the ingredients cook evenly and ensures every bite of your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls is bursting with balanced flavor.
Step 6: Set It and Let It Cook (The Slow Magic)
Cover your slow cooker and set it to:
- Low for 6–8 hours or
- High for 3–4 hours
During this time, the cabbage softens, the sauce thickens, and the flavors melt together into one harmonious, hearty dish. Your home will smell like a cozy kitchen from a bygone Sunday supper.
If you’re like me and love recipes that cook themselves while you handle life, try my Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup next—it’s another delicious “hands-off” dinner that’s family-approved.
Step 7: Stir, Serve, and Savor
Once the cooking time is up, gently stir the contents of your slow cooker to distribute the sauce and cabbage evenly. The mixture should look rich, chunky, and inviting—like deconstructed comfort in a bowl.
Spoon your Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls into bowls and, if desired, top with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess. Serve it alongside crusty bread or fluffy rice for a complete, soul-satisfying meal.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls
- Don’t skip browning the meat! It adds depth and keeps the beef from tasting bland.
- Chop the cabbage small: Smaller pieces cook evenly and blend beautifully with the sauce.
- Make it ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day—perfect for meal prep!
- Add rice for a classic twist: Stir in 1 cup of cooked white or brown rice before serving to give it that nostalgic “stuffed roll” feel.
- Freezer-friendly: Cools well and freezes like a dream. Just thaw and reheat for an easy dinner later.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe bags or containers. It reheats perfectly on the stovetop or in the microwave.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great for a leaner version.
Can I make this on the stovetop?
Yes—simmer everything in a large pot over low heat for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Can I add rice directly to the slow cooker?
You can, but add an extra ½ cup of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Personal Story
This recipe reminds me of cozy Sundays growing up in Texas. My mom would make cabbage rolls for special occasions, and I’d always sneak extra sauce when she wasn’t looking. Years later, as a mom myself, I needed something quicker—but equally comforting. This slow cooker version became my solution, a little nod to my childhood without the extra fuss.
Conclusion
If you’re craving comfort food that’s hearty, wholesome, and ridiculously easy, these Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are just what your weeknight dinner needs. It’s cozy, crowd-pleasing, and practically cooks itself. So go ahead—grab your slow cooker, toss everything in, and let dinner take care of itself.
And if you love this, you’ll adore my Crock Pot Stuffed Pepper Soup and Slow Cooker Creamy Tortellini Soup—they’re family favorites for a reason.
Follow us on Pinterest for weekly slow cooker inspiration, or join the conversation over on our Facebook page where fellow food lovers share their favorite comfort meal.
Print
Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls – Easy Comfort Meal
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 360 minutes
- Total Time: 375 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls are a hearty and fuss-free twist on the traditional dish. Enjoy the savory flavors of cabbage rolls without the rolling—just layer everything in your crockpot and let it simmer to perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) petite diced tomatoes
- 1 can (6 oz) 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
1. Brown ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat until still slightly pink. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add diced onion, thyme, parsley, red pepper flakes, and salt to the skillet. Cook for 3–4 minutes until onion softens.
3. Transfer the beef and onion mixture to the slow cooker.
4. Add chopped cabbage on top of the meat mixture.
5. In a mixing bowl, stir together diced tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and water.
6. Pour the sauce over the cabbage and meat in the slow cooker.
7. Mix gently to combine all ingredients.
8. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours until the cabbage is tender and flavors are well blended.
9. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Add cooked rice near the end for a more filling meal.
Leftovers store well and taste even better the next day.
This dish is great for meal prep and freezer-friendly.
