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Love the cozy taste of cabbage rolls but don’t have the time or patience to roll them up? This Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup is the answer! It delivers all the hearty, comforting flavors of classic cabbage rolls without the hassle. Simply toss everything into your slow cooker, set it, and forget it! Whether you’re planning for a busy weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the days ahead, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Plus, the flavors deepen overnight, making it perfect for leftovers that taste even better the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This unstuffed cabbage roll soup is a hearty, delicious option that makes dinner prep a breeze. With a rich, savory broth, tender cabbage, and just the right amount of sweetness from the tomatoes and brown sugar, it’s the ultimate comfort food. Pair it with crusty bread, a warm dinner roll, or even sprinkle some cheese on top for that extra layer of deliciousness. Ready to dive in? Here’s how to make it.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to gather before getting started:
1 lb ground beef (substitute with turkey or chicken 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 – For that rich, meaty base.
28 oz can diced tomatoes – Adds a tangy sweetness to the broth.
15 oz can tomato sauce – For a smooth, rich tomato flavor.
1/2 cup uncooked long grain white rice – Provides texture and substance.
2 tbsp brown sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce – Enhances the savory depth.
1 tsp paprika – Adds a subtle warmth.
1 tsp dried thyme – A fragrant herb that complements the other flavors.
1 bay leaf – Infuses the soup with a hint of earthy flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust to your liking.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming too greasy.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
To the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This step helps to bring out the sweetness of the onions and garlic, adding more depth to the soup.
Step 3: Transfer to Slow Cooker
Transfer the cooked beef mixture to your slow cooker. Add the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, beef broth, diced tomatoes (including the juice), tomato sauce, uncooked rice, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, dried thyme, and the bay leaf.
Step 4: Mix Well
Stir everything together until well combined. Make sure the cabbage is evenly distributed so it cooks down evenly.
Step 5: Cook Low and Slow
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