The Simplest Way to Enjoy All the Flavors of Classic Cabbage Rolls
Craving the warm, savory goodness of traditional cabbage rolls but don’t have the time or patience to roll and stuff? Look no further than Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup—a rich, hearty, and effortless comfort food that transforms the essence of the beloved dish into a one-pot wonder. Loaded with ground beef, tender cabbage, tomatoes, and savory seasonings, this slow-cooked soup delivers big flavor with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cold weather, or freezer-friendly meal prep.
Why This Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup Is a Must-Try
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All the flavor of cabbage rolls without the work
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Hands-off slow cooker method
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Freezer-friendly and great for leftovers
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Gluten-free, low-carb optional, and easy to customize
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Perfect for feeding a crowd or weekly meal prep
Ingredients You’ll Need
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1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey/pork)
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1 medium onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small head of green cabbage, chopped
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1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
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1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
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4 cups beef broth (or chicken/vegetable)
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½ cup uncooked white rice (or cauliflower rice for low-carb)
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1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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1 teaspoon paprika
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 bay leaf
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Optional: red pepper flakes for a kick
How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup in the Slow Cooker
Step 1: Brown the Meat
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with diced onion until fully cooked. Drain excess fat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. (You can skip this step and add raw meat directly to the slow cooker, but browning enhances flavor.)
Step 2: Load the Slow Cooker
Add the cooked meat mixture to your slow cooker, then stir in chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, uncooked rice, Worcestershire sauce, and all seasonings.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on:
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Low for 6–8 hours
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High for 3–4 hours
Stir occasionally if possible. The soup is ready when the cabbage is tender and the rice is cooked through.
Step 4: Taste and Serve
Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a warm slice of crusty bread—or enjoy it as-is for a low-carb delight!
Optional Variations
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Low-carb version: Replace rice with cauliflower rice (add in the last hour).
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Add heat: Toss in a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.
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Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.
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Boost nutrition: Add carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
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Swap the protein: Try ground turkey, chicken, or sausage for a different spin.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Freezing Tips
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Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
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Freeze: This soup freezes beautifully—let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months.
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Reheat: Rewarm on the stove or in the microwave. Add broth or water if it thickens.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with a dollop of sour cream for creaminess.
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Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
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Pair with keto cornbread or crusty sourdough.
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Enjoy as a standalone meal—it's that filling!
Why We Love This Recipe
Slow Cooker Cabbage Roll Soup is the ultimate comfort food shortcut—all the homey, hearty flavor of cabbage rolls in a fuss-free, slow-cooked bowl. It’s nourishing, flavorful, and totally customizable to suit your dietary preferences. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a winter night or prep for a busy week, this soup is a surefire crowd-pleaser.
