Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup

If you’re like me, you love the rich, comforting flavors of classic cabbage rolls but don’t always have the time to roll them up. This Slow Cooker Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup delivers all that hearty goodness in a simple, throw-it-in-the-slow-cooker format. Perfect for busy days when you need a delicious, low-effort meal. Plus, this soup is fantastic for meal prepping—it tastes even better the next day!

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm, buttery dinner rolls. For a fresh contrast to the savory soup, serve it with a light side salad. Feeling indulgent? Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top just before serving for an extra layer of yum!

Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a lighter version)
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
3 cups beef broth
28 oz can diced tomatoes
15 oz can tomato sauce
½ 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
Directions

see continuation on next page

Directions
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion is translucent and soft.
Transfer the cooked beef, onions, and garlic to your slow cooker.
Add the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, beef broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, uncooked rice, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, dried thyme, and bay leaf to the slow cooker.
Stir everything together until well combined.
Cover and cook on low heat for 6-7 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours. The soup is ready when the cabbage and rice are tender.
Remove the bay leaf and taste the soup, adding salt and pepper as needed.
Ladle into bowls and serve hot, enjoying the comforting flavors without the fuss of rolling up cabbage!
Variations & Tips
Switch up the protein—ground chicken or pork work well, too. For a vegetarian version, use lentils or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
Add other vegetables like bell peppers or celery for variety.
For some heat, add a dash of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
If you prefer a thicker soup, a small can of tomato paste can help achieve that consistency.
Enjoy your cozy meal!