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Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage – Easy Comfort Food for Busy Nights

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage recipe served warm

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Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage is a hearty, comforting dish made with ground beef, cabbage, tomatoes, and savory seasonings. All the classic flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls without the extra work—just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it simmer to perfection.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds ground beef (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio recommended)
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small head green cabbage, cored and chopped into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium if preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks.

2. Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.

4. Drain off excess grease from the skillet thoroughly to prevent a watery sauce.

5. Transfer the beef, onion, and garlic mixture to a 6-quart or larger slow cooker.

6. Add chopped cabbage, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce (if using), dried parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.

7. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly in the slow cooker.

8. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours, until cabbage is tender and flavors are well melded.

9. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving, adding more salt or pepper if needed.

Notes

For best results, thoroughly drain the grease after browning the beef to prevent excess liquid in the soup.

Use freshly minced garlic for optimal flavor.

The Worcestershire sauce adds a deep umami flavor but can be omitted for a simpler taste.

This dish reheats well and can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.