How long does slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls take to cook?

Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The exact time depends on your slow cooker's heat output and how tender you prefer the cabbage. Check after 4 hours on high or 6 hours on low to gauge doneness.

Can I make slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls in an Instant Pot?

Yes, absolutely. Layer ingredients without stirring, secure the lid, set the manual button for 4 minutes, and quick-release the steam when done. The pressure cooking method significantly reduces cooking time while delivering similar results.

What's the best way to store and reheat this dish?

Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls also freeze beautifully for up to 3 months. For more ideas, check out our guide on Potsticker Stir Fry. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Can I use frozen cabbage for this recipe?

Frozen cabbage works, though fresh cabbage provides superior texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain thoroughly before adding to prevent excess water in your slow cooker. Expect the texture to be slightly softer than fresh versions.

What should I serve alongside slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls?

Serve over white rice, brown rice, or riced cauliflower for a complete meal. Crusty bread pairs nicely for soaking up the delicious sauce. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables add freshness and balance the rich, hearty flavors.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely. Slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls are perfect for batch cooking. Make a double batch and portion into containers for grab-and-go lunches throughout the week. The flavors actually improve after sitting overnight as everything melds together.

Can I adjust the recipe for a smaller or larger crowd?

Yes, this recipe scales easily. For 3-4 servings, halve the ingredients. For 10-12 servings, double everything. Adjust cooking time slightly based on how full your slow cooker is. A fuller cooker may need an extra 30 minutes to an hour on low.

Amazing Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls: 7 Steps

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Hearty slow cooker unstuffed cabbage rolls with ground beef, tender cabbage, rice, and rich tomato sauce for an easy comfort food dinner.

Author: Julia Monroe
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

2 pounds ground beef, browned and drained

1 medium head cabbage, cored and chopped into bite-sized pieces

1 medium onion, diced

3 large cloves garlic, minced

1 cup uncooked rice

1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained

1 (29-ounce) can marinara sauce or 3 3/4 cups tomato sauce

1/2 cup beef stock or water

1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Shredded cheese, for topping (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef with a pinch of salt and pepper until no longer pink, about 5–7 minutes.

2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook 2–3 minutes more until softened, then drain any excess grease.

3. Core and chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, rinse in a colander, and let drain well.

4. Spray the slow cooker with non-stick spray or use a slow cooker liner.

5. Add the browned beef mixture to the bottom of the slow cooker.

6. Layer the chopped cabbage over the beef.

7. Sprinkle the uncooked rice, garlic powder, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes over the meat and cabbage.

8. Pour the diced tomatoes, marinara or tomato sauce, and beef stock over everything.

9. Stir gently until all ingredients are evenly combined and the rice is submerged in liquid.

10. Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or on HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the cabbage is tender and the rice is cooked through.

11. If the mixture is too thick, stir in a bit more water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

12. Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheese if desired. Serve as-is, over extra rice, or with riced cauliflower for a lower-carb option.

Notes

Use lean ground beef to reduce excess grease in the slow cooker.

Adjust red pepper flakes to control the heat level or omit for a mild dish.

For a lower-carb version, reduce or omit the rice and serve over riced cauliflower.

Leftovers reheat well and can be frozen for easy future dinners.

Find it online: https://www.musttryrecipe.com/slow-cooker-unstuffed-cabbage-rolls/