Easy Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls (Cozy One-Pot Meal)

If you’re craving cozy, homemade comfort food without all the hassle, this slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls recipe is about to become your go-to meal. It takes the classic flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls—ground beef, cabbage, tomato sauce, and rice—and turns them into a one-pot, no-fuss dish that simmers to perfection in your crockpot.

Gone are the days of parboiling cabbage leaves, rolling them tightly, and hoping they don’t fall apart. This lazy cabbage roll recipe brings all the savory, sweet, and tangy flavors you love in a deconstructed form that’s easier to prep, store, and serve. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, meal-prep approved, and kid-tested.

Whether you call it cabbage roll unstuffed, crock pot unstuffed cabbage, or a hearty unstuffed cabbage roll casserole, this dish is packed with fiber, protein, and flavor. Let’s break down how to make this stress-free version of a family-favorite recipe that’s been passed down for generations—and now made even easier for busy weeknights.

Love hearty one-pot meals? You’ll also want to try our Slow Cooker Cowboy Potato Casserole or Garlic Parmesan Crockpot Chicken and Potatoes.

What Are Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls?

Unstuffed cabbage rolls—also known as deconstructed cabbage rolls or lazy cabbage rolls—are the faster, easier cousin of traditional Eastern European cabbage rolls. Instead of wrapping seasoned meat and rice in cabbage leaves, all the ingredients are chopped and tossed together into a single dish that cooks slowly and effortlessly.

Think of this as a cabbage roll casserole—all the beloved flavors of garlic, onion, tender beef, tomatoes, and soft cabbage, but none of the prep work. The slow cooker works its magic by blending the flavors over a few hours, creating a rich and satisfying meal with little effort on your part.

While traditional cabbage rolls are common in Polish, Ukrainian, and Russian cuisine, the unstuffed version is an American comfort food hack that’s perfect for crockpot cooking. It’s a budget-friendly dinner that stretches ground beef and cabbage into multiple servings—great for meal prepping or feeding a family.

Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

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• Author: Isabella Martinez
• Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6–8 servings 1x

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These slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls are a cozy, one-pot comfort food packed with ground beef, cabbage, rice, and savory tomato sauce—no rolling needed! Perfect for meal prep, budget cooking, or easy family dinners.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 small head green cabbage, chopped (approx. 6 cups)
• 2½ cups water or beef broth
• 1 cup Minute rice (or ¾ cup rinsed long grain rice)
• 1½ tsp garlic salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 (28 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with garlic & olive oil preferred)
• Optional: shredded cheese for topping

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Instructions

1. Step 1:
   In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef, garlic, and onion until browned. Drain excess grease.
2. Step 2:
   In a slow cooker, add chopped cabbage, rice, water or broth, garlic salt, pepper, paprika, sugar, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes.
3. Step 3:
   Stir in the browned beef mixture and mix well until fully combined.
4. Step 4:
   Cover and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until rice is tender and cabbage is soft.
5. Step 5 (Optional):
   Top with shredded cheese before serving for an extra comfort food boost.

Notes

• For firmer rice, add it in the last 60–90 minutes of cooking.
• Long grain rice requires rinsing before use to avoid gummy texture.
• For more liquid consistency, stir in a splash of broth after cooking.
• Easily adaptable with ground turkey or plant-based protein.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooker
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1.5 cups approx
• Calories: 229 kcal
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 278mg
• Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 36mg

Why You’ll Love This Crockpot Cabbage Roll Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with this unstuffed cabbage rolls slow cooker meal:

• Easy to Prepare: No boiling cabbage or tedious rolling involved
• One-Pot Magic: Just layer and let the slow cooker do the work
• Nutritious: High in fiber, low in fat, and packed with whole ingredients
• Family-Friendly: A hit with picky eaters and hearty enough for adults
• Freezer-Friendly: Make ahead and store for stress-free dinners
• Versatile: Adapt it with different meats, grains, or spice levels

If you enjoyed dishes like our Crockpot Creamy Potato and Hamburger Soup or High Protein Creamy Lasagna Soup, this recipe will absolutely hit the spot.

Ingredients for Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

This crockpot cabbage roll recipe keeps things simple, affordable, and delicious. You likely have most of the ingredients already in your pantry or fridge. Below is everything you need to make the ultimate slow cooker unstuffed cabbage roll casserole.

What You’ll Need:

• 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
• 1 cup uncooked white rice (or Minute rice)
• 2½ cups water (or low-sodium beef broth)
• 28 oz can tomato sauce
• 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes, preferably with garlic & olive oil
• 1½ tsp garlic salt
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp black pepper
• Optional: shredded cheese for topping

This list balances bold tomato flavor with tender cabbage, savory meat, and rice to make it a complete meal in one.

Looking for more cozy, cabbage-forward comfort food? Don’t miss our Loaded Baked Potato Soup or Cozy and Comforting Soup Recipes.

Best Type of Cabbage to Use

Green cabbage is the classic choice for unstuffed cabbage rolls. It softens beautifully in the slow cooker and soaks up the tomato-based sauce without falling apart.

Want to get creative? Here are other cabbage options:

• Savoy cabbage – milder and more tender
• Napa cabbage – slightly sweeter with thinner leaves
• Red cabbage – works, but adds a purple tint and firmer texture

Pro tip: Chop the cabbage into evenly sized pieces (1–2 inches) so they cook consistently.

Ground Beef or Ground Turkey?

Both meats work well in this recipe, and each brings a slightly different flavor and nutrition profile:

• Ground Beef: Richer and more traditional. Use 85/15 for balance.
• Ground Turkey: Leaner and lighter, great for lower-fat diets.
• Ground Pork: Adds richness—use it solo or in a 50/50 mix with beef.
• Plant-Based Options: Use meatless crumbles or lentils for a vegetarian take.

You can even mix and match. A 50/50 split of beef and pork is common in Eastern European-style rolls.

For another dish using ground beef and slow cooking, try our Garlic Butter Beef Bites with Potatoes.

Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?

Yes—but be sure to use very ripe tomatoes and add tomato paste or puree to maintain richness. Canned tomatoes with juice and sauce are more reliable for consistent flavor and thickness in the slow cooker.

How to Make Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

If you’ve ever made traditional cabbage rolls, you know how time-consuming they can be — from boiling the cabbage leaves to carefully rolling and layering. That’s where this slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls recipe comes to the rescue. It gives you all the cozy, comforting flavor with none of the hassle.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Here’s exactly how to make these slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls from start to finish.

Step 1: Brown the Ground Meat

In a large skillet over medium heat:

• Add 1 pound of ground beef, 2 cloves of minced garlic, and 1 diced onion.
• Sauté until the beef is browned and the onions are soft (about 6–7 minutes).
• Drain any excess fat.

Pro Tip: This initial browning step builds depth of flavor that will infuse your entire crock pot unstuffed cabbage roll casserole.

Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

In a 6-quart slow cooker, combine:

• 1 chopped head of cabbage (about 6 cups)
• 2 ½ cups of water
• 1 cup of uncooked Minute rice
• 28 oz can of tomato sauce
• 14.5 oz can of petite diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 1 ½ tsp garlic salt
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp black pepper

Then stir in the cooked meat mixture until everything is evenly combined. This hearty mix will cook down into tender, melt-in-your-mouth deconstructed cabbage rolls packed with rich, tomatoey flavor.

Step 3: Cover and Cook

Set the slow cooker on:

• LOW for 5–6 hours
• or HIGH for 3–4 hours

You’ll know it’s ready when the cabbage is tender and the rice is fully cooked. Stir occasionally during the last hour if you prefer a thicker texture.

Tip: Want firmer rice? Add it during the last hour of cooking rather than at the beginning.

Tips for Perfect Layering and Texture

While this is an “unstuffed” recipe, you can still follow a few simple tips to create layers of flavor:

• Bottom Layer: Place cabbage first — it releases moisture that helps prevent sticking.
• Middle Layer: Spread the meat and tomatoes evenly.
• Top Off: Add sauce last so it simmers down through the rest of the ingredients.

Prefer a slightly richer flavor? Swap water for beef broth or tomato juice.

Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Variations to Try

The classic slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls recipe is already a weeknight hero, but the beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility. Whether you’re following a specific diet, craving different flavors, or just want to use what’s in your pantry, there’s a variation that works for you.

Here are some of the most popular and delicious ways to make this dish your own:

Cheesy Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

If comfort food is your goal, this variation turns your crock pot unstuffed cabbage rolls into a gooey, cheesy casserole. Simply sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the top during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Pro Tip: Let the cheese melt with the lid on to create a casserole-style topping that pairs perfectly with the cabbage and tomato base.

Spicy Deconstructed Cabbage Rolls

Add a flavorful kick to your unstuffed cabbage roll recipe with a spicy twist:

How to turn up the heat:

• Swap regular diced tomatoes for fire-roasted or ones with green chilies
• Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes
• Use spicy Italian sausage in place of ground beef
• Garnish with sliced jalapeños or hot sauce

This version is great for spice lovers and makes a bold, memorable weeknight dinner.

Vegetarian Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

No meat? No problem. This vegetarian-friendly take on unstuffed cabbage in the crock pot is hearty, nutritious, and packed with plant-based goodness.

Swap or add:

• Replace ground beef with lentils, black beans, or crumbled tofu
• Add diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for texture
• Use vegetable broth instead of water or beef broth

Low-Carb / Keto Lazy Cabbage Rolls

Craving unstuffed cabbage rolls but cutting back on carbs? This low-carb version skips the rice without sacrificing taste.

Low-carb tips:

• Omit the rice altogether, or replace it with riced cauliflower
• Use extra cabbage or chopped spinach to bulk it up
• Make sure to use a sugar-free tomato sauce

This variation is especially great for those following keto or paleo diets.

Polish-Style Unstuffed Cabbage

For a traditional twist, lean into the classic flavors of Polish cabbage rolls by adding a few old-world ingredients:

Try this:

• Use a mix of ground pork and beef
• Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for acidity
• Season with dill and caraway seeds
• Serve with sour cream on the side

Polish unstuffed cabbage rolls tend to be a bit tangier and often include slightly sweeter tomato sauces. A great way to bring heritage flavor to your slow cooker.

With Sauerkraut or Pickled Cabbage

For even more depth, consider using sauerkraut or pickled cabbage instead of fresh.

Tips:

• Mix fresh cabbage with drained sauerkraut (50/50 ratio)
• Reduce added salt — sauerkraut is already salty
• Add a bay leaf and a pinch of brown sugar to balance the tang

What Makes These Lazy Cabbage Roll Recipes So Special?

Each of these unstuffed cabbage roll variations lets you enjoy all the cozy vibes of traditional stuffed cabbage without the prep work. Whether you’re serving a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a freezer-friendly comfort food option, these variations offer something for every lifestyle and craving.

Looking for another rustic, crowd-pleasing slow cooker meal? Try our Crockpot Cheese Tortellini and Sausage — creamy, protein-packed, and perfect for cozy weeknights.

Storage, Freezing & Reheating Tips

Can You Freeze Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls?

Absolutely! One of the best things about this slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls recipe is how well it freezes. This makes it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy families, batch cooking, or cozy weeknight dinners without the stress.

Here’s how to do it right:

• Cool Completely First: Let the cooked casserole come to room temperature before freezing.
• Portion Before Freezing: Divide it into meal-size portions. Use freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
• Label Clearly: Mark the date and contents — it’ll stay good for up to 3 months.
• Pro Tip: If you’re planning to freeze the entire batch, consider slightly undercooking the rice to prevent it from getting mushy upon reheating.

How to Reheat Without Drying It Out

The secret to keeping this dish moist and flavorful during reheating? A splash of liquid and gentle heat.

Best Ways to Reheat:

• Microwave (Quickest):
  • Add 1–2 tablespoons of water or broth.
  • Cover with a microwave-safe lid or wrap to trap moisture.
  • Heat in 60–90 second bursts, stirring between rounds.
• Stovetop (Best Texture):
  • Add a splash of water or tomato sauce to a non-stick pan.
  • Reheat on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• Oven (Best for Large Portions):
  • Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
  • Place in an oven-safe dish with a bit of broth or sauce on top.
  • Cover with foil and heat for 20–25 minutes until hot.

Reheating tip: Add a sprinkle of cheese just before serving to freshen it up and restore that creamy, comforting texture.

What to Serve With Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

This hearty, tomato-rich dish is cozy and satisfying on its own—but pairing your slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls with the right sides can elevate your dinner from great to unforgettable.

Let’s look at the best ways to round out this comforting meal!

Bread Sides to Mop Up the Sauce

One of the best things about unstuffed cabbage casserole is the flavorful tomato sauce that develops during hours of slow cooking. Serve it with something that soaks it all up:

• Crusty bread: Think French baguette or sourdough slices.
• Garlic knots: A flavorful, buttery match.
• Dinner rolls: Soft and pillowy—especially delicious when warm!

Fresh Sides for Balance

Since crock pot unstuffed cabbage rolls are rich and savory, a fresh side dish can balance out the meal beautifully.

• Simple green salad with vinaigrette
• Cucumber and dill salad for something light and refreshing
• Steamed green beans or broccoli

Hearty Add-Ons

If you’re feeding a crowd or craving extra comfort, try these:

• Mashed potatoes — spoon that deconstructed stuffed cabbage goodness right on top.
• Buttered egg noodles — a soft base that absorbs every bit of sauce.
• Pierogi or spaetzle — especially if you want a full Eastern European experience.

Drinks & Desserts to Complement

• Sparkling water with lemon if you’re keeping things light.
• Dessert pairing? Go for something fruity and simple like our Caramel Apple Dessert Cups or even these Pumpkin Spice Cream Puffs for a seasonal finish.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

These slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls aren’t just comforting — they’re a surprisingly wholesome dinner option. This lazy cabbage roll casserole packs in lean protein, fiber-rich cabbage, and heart-healthy tomatoes, all while keeping calories in check.

Here’s a nutritional snapshot per serving (based on 6 servings from the full recipe):

This makes the unstuffed cabbage rolls slow cooker recipe a smart choice for weeknight dinners, especially if you’re trying to balance comfort food with nutritious ingredients.

Dietary Notes:

• Naturally gluten-free (just check your broth & sauces).
• Can be made lower carb by omitting rice or swapping for cauliflower rice.
• Easy to make vegetarian with plant-based protein swaps.

Top FAQs About Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

Let’s tackle the most common questions about this comforting unstuffed cabbage rolls in slow cooker meal — especially if you’re making it for the first time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls in a Slow Cooker

Even though this slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls recipe is super forgiving, there are a few pitfalls that can affect the taste or texture. Here’s how to avoid them:

1. Not browning the meat first

While technically you can toss raw meat into the slow cooker, skipping the browning step means:

• Less flavor development
• Greasier end result
• Less appealing texture

Tip: Always sauté your ground beef (or turkey) with onions and garlic before layering in the crockpot.

2. Using too large cabbage chunks

Oversized cabbage pieces won’t break down properly during cooking and may stay tough. For the best lazy cabbage roll casserole texture:

• Chop cabbage into bite-sized chunks (about 1–1.5 inches)
• Don’t include thick core pieces

3. Not adjusting the liquid if using different rice

Different rice types = different absorption rates. For example:

• Minute rice cooks quickly and absorbs less liquid
• Long grain rice absorbs more and takes longer

If you swap the rice, reduce the amount slightly or add more broth or water to maintain the right consistency in your unstuffed cabbage rolls crock pot dish.

4. Under-seasoning

Cabbage and rice are both neutral, so under-seasoning is a common problem. Be sure to include:

• Salt and pepper
• Paprika or chili flakes for warmth
• Garlic and onion for depth

You can also stir in a splash of Worcestershire or even hot sauce if desired.

5. Overcooking on HIGH

While it’s tempting to rush things, cooking this recipe on HIGH for too long can:

• Turn the cabbage mushy
• Dry out the rice
• Break down the tomato flavor

Stick to LOW for 5–6 hours for best results.

Final Thoughts — Why This Will Be Your Favorite Lazy Cabbage Roll Recipe

Final Thoughts — Why This Will Be Your Favorite Lazy Cabbage Roll Recipe

There’s something undeniably comforting about slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls — they deliver big flavor, hearty texture, and nostalgic warmth, all with zero rolling or babysitting required.

Here’s why this recipe wins every time:

• Set-it-and-forget-it method for busy weeknights
• Budget-friendly ingredients that stretch far
• Flexible: can be made gluten-free, low-carb, vegetarian
• Family-friendly and freezer-friendly

Whether you call them crock pot unstuffed cabbage rolls, unrolled cabbage roll casserole, or just “lazy cabbage rolls,” this dish checks all the boxes for comfort food made easy.

Looking for more cozy, slow-cooked classics? Try these next:

• High Protein Chicken Soup Recipe – light, filling, and comforting
• Sweet Potato and Butternut Squash Soup – creamy, nutritious, and fall-ready
• Tuscan White Bean Soup Recipe – hearty and packed with protein and fiber