Crock Pot Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls with Ground Beef and Rice

Enjoy all the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls without the extra work! This easy slow cooker recipe combines tender cabbage, seasoned ground beef, rice, and a rich tomato sauce for a hearty, satisfying family dinner. Just add the ingredients to your Crock Pot and let it do the work!

Ingredients

• 1½ pounds ground beef
• 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 2 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar, optional
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion. Cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking up the beef, until browned and the onion softens. Drain excess fat and stir in the minced garlic. Cook for another 30 seconds.
2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce: In a bowl, combine the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and brown sugar if using. Stir until well combined.
3. Layer the Ingredients: Place the chopped cabbage in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the browned beef mixture and rinsed rice, distributing everything evenly.
4. Add the Sauce: Pour the tomato mixture over the cabbage, beef, and rice. Stir gently to combine and ensure the rice is mostly submerged in liquid.
5. Slow Cook: Cover and cook on LOW for approximately 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours, until the cabbage is tender and the ground beef is fully cooked.
6. Check the Rice: Check that the rice is tender and has absorbed the cooking liquid. If necessary, add a little hot broth and continue cooking until done. Cooking times may vary by slow cooker.
7. Stir and Adjust: Gently stir everything together. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. If the mixture is too thick, add a small amount of hot broth.
8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm with crusty bread or a simple green salad.

Tips for the Best Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls

• Brown the beef first: This adds deeper flavor and helps remove excess fat.
• Cut the cabbage evenly: Similar-sized pieces cook more evenly.
• Keep the rice submerged: Rice needs enough liquid to cook properly.
• Check the liquid level: Slow cookers vary, so add extra hot broth if the mixture becomes too dry.
• Prefer firmer rice? For more consistent results, cook the rice separately and stir it into the finished cabbage mixture during the last 15–20 minutes.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in a saucepan over medium-low heat or in the microwave until thoroughly heated, adding a splash of broth if needed.

You can also freeze portions in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

This Crock Pot Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe delivers everything you love about classic cabbage rolls in one easy, hearty dish. With tender cabbage, flavorful beef, rice, and rich tomato sauce, it’s a comforting meal the whole family can enjoy!