Slow Cooker Cabbage and Beef Stew (Unstuffed Cabbage Soup)
Description
This Slow Cooker Cabbage and Beef Stew delivers all the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls—without the extra work. Tender ground beef, soft cabbage, tomatoes, and rice simmer together in a rich, savory broth infused with garlic and herbs. It’s hearty, budget-friendly, and perfect for feeding a family or prepping meals for the week. One pot, simple ingredients, and deep, cozy flavor.
Ingredients For the Stew Base
- 500 g (1 lb) ground beef
- 4 cups cabbage (chopped)
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (400 g) diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp thyme
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
For the Rice
- ½ cup uncooked white rice
Optional Add-ins
- 1 carrot (sliced)
- ½ tsp chili flakes (for heat)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (for depth)
Instructions
- Brown the Beef (Recommended)
In a pan over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat. - Add to Slow Cooker
Transfer beef to the slow cooker. Add cabbage, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, spices, and optional ingredients. Stir well. - Cook
Cover and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours until cabbage is tender. - Add Rice
Stir in uncooked rice during the last 30–40 minutes of cooking. Cook until rice is tender. - Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, optionally with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream.
Time Required
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–7 hours
- Total Time: ~5 hours
Servings
- Serves: 5–6 people
Notes
- Browning beef adds more flavor but can be skipped.
- Add more broth if the stew thickens too much after adding rice.
- You can cook rice separately and stir it in before serving.
Tips
- Use brown rice for extra fiber (increase cooking time slightly).
- Add bell peppers for extra flavor and color.
- Let stew rest 10 minutes before serving to thicken naturally.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving Approx.)
- Calories: 300–380 kcal
- Protein: 20–25 g
- Carbohydrates: 20–28 g
- Fat: 12–18 g
- Fiber: 4–6 g
Benefits
- High in protein: Supports muscle health and satiety.
- Budget-friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.
- Fiber-rich: Cabbage and rice aid digestion.
- Comfort food: Warm, filling, and satisfying.
Q&A
Q1: Can I make it low-carb?
Yes, skip rice or replace with cauliflower rice.
Q2: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely, it’s a lighter option.
Q3: Can I freeze this stew?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 2–3 months.
Q4: How do I thicken it?
Let it simmer uncovered or mash some cabbage into the broth.
Q5: Can I cook it on the stove?
Yes, simmer everything in a large pot for 1–1.5 hours.