There’s something nostalgic and deeply comforting about the flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls—tender cabbage leaves, seasoned meat, tomato sauce, and soft rice all rolled into one cozy meal. But let’s be honest: as delicious as they are, they can be time-consuming to prepare. That’s where this unstuffed cabbage roll soup comes in. It brings all the same hearty goodness and robust flavor of traditional cabbage rolls, but with a much simpler, fuss-free approach. Just brown your meat, toss everything into your slow cooker, and let it simmer to perfection while you go about your day.
This soup is ideal for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or feeding a hungry family. It’s thick, satisfying, and loaded with vegetables, making it both a nourishing and budget-friendly option. The warm broth, tender cabbage, and savory beef create a depth of flavor that tastes like it simmered on the stove for hours—because it actually did, but with none of the hovering or hand-rolling. Whether you’re making it for yourself or for a crowd, this soup delivers that old-school comfort with new-school ease. Pair it with crusty bread, a side salad, or enjoy it just as it is—one bowl is often all you need.
Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup
Servings: 6–8
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker. Add chopped cabbage, carrots, beef broth, diced tomatoes with juices, tomato sauce, uncooked rice, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the cabbage and rice are tender. Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, straight from the slow cooker.
Nutritional & Dietary Notes
This soup is rich in fiber and essential vitamins thanks to the cabbage, carrots, and tomatoes. The ground beef provides protein, while the rice contributes healthy carbohydrates for energy. To reduce fat, lean ground turkey or plant-based meat can be used. This dish is naturally gluten-free when made with gluten-free broth and sauces, making it suitable for many diets. It’s a great fit for anyone seeking a hearty but balanced meal with familiar flavors.
Sharing and Commenting is Caring
If this cozy cabbage roll soup warmed your heart and your belly, don’t forget to share it with a friend or drop a comment below! Your feedback helps others discover tasty, time-saving recipes—and it keeps the love for comfort food alive and well.