There’s something deeply comforting about a slow-cooked meal that fills your home with rich, savory aromas and promises a warm, satisfying dinner at the end of a long day. This Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole delivers all the cozy flavors of traditional cabbage rolls, but without the time-consuming rolling and stuffing. It’s hearty, wholesome, and layered with tender cabbage, seasoned meat, and a rich tomato base that slowly melds together into pure comfort food perfection.
If you love classic cabbage rolls but want an easier, family-friendly version, this recipe is about to become a regular in your rotation. With simple pantry staples and a hands-off slow cooking method, you get a delicious, well-balanced meal that feels both nostalgic and effortless. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep Sundays, or anytime you’re craving something filling and homemade.
2️⃣ WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
- All the flavor of traditional cabbage rolls — no rolling required
- Easy slow cooker method with minimal hands-on time
- Family-friendly and perfect for meal prep
- Hearty, filling, and well-balanced
- Freezer-friendly and reheats beautifully
- Customizable with beef or turkey
3️⃣ INGREDIENTS (WITH EXACT AMOUNTS)
• 1 large head of cabbage, chopped – Forms the tender, hearty base of the casserole.
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey – Provides rich protein and savory flavor.
• 1 cup uncooked rice – Absorbs the tomato juices and creates a satisfying texture.
• 1 onion, chopped – Adds natural sweetness and depth.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the savory flavor profile.
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes – Creates a rich and slightly chunky tomato base.
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce – Adds smoothness and deep tomato flavor.
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce – Brings a subtle tangy umami boost.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Adds warm, earthy herb notes.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil – Complements the tomato base with aromatic flavor.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Balances and enhances all the ingredients.
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional) – Melts into a creamy, comforting topping.
4️⃣ STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS (DETAILED)
1. Brown the Meat
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the 1 pound ground beef or turkey to the pan, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Continue cooking until the meat is fully browned and no pink remains.
If you’re using ground beef, you may notice excess fat in the pan. Carefully drain it to prevent the casserole from becoming greasy. Draining also allows the tomato flavors to shine through later. Once cooked and drained, set the meat aside.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Using the same skillet (this keeps all that flavorful residue), add the 1 onion, chopped and 2 cloves garlic, minced. Cook over medium heat for 2–3 minutes.
You’re looking for the onion to become soft and translucent. This step releases natural sweetness and ensures the onion blends smoothly into the casserole. Avoid browning the garlic too much, as it can become bitter.
3. Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked meat, sautéed onion and garlic, 1 cup uncooked rice, 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes, 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce, 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, and salt and pepper to taste.
Stir thoroughly until everything is evenly distributed. Make sure the rice is fully coated in the tomato mixture — this ensures it cooks properly in the slow cooker and absorbs maximum flavor.
4. Layer the Cabbage
Lightly prepare your crockpot by ensuring it’s clean and ready to go. Begin by placing half of the 1 large head of cabbage, chopped on the bottom of the slow cooker. Spread it evenly to create a solid base layer.
Spoon half of the meat and rice mixture over the cabbage. Spread it out gently to ensure even cooking. Repeat with the remaining cabbage, followed by the remaining meat mixture. Layering helps distribute flavors evenly and allows the cabbage to soften beautifully as it cooks.
5. Cook the Casserole
Cover the crockpot with its lid. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
As it cooks, the cabbage will become tender and the rice will absorb the flavorful tomato sauce. The long, slow cooking process allows everything to meld together into a cohesive, comforting dish. Before serving, check that the rice is fully cooked and tender. If it needs more time, continue cooking in 20–30 minute increments.
6. Add Cheese
If using 1 cup shredded cheese (optional), sprinkle it evenly over the top during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Replace the lid and allow the cheese to melt completely.
The result is a gooey, creamy topping that adds extra comfort and richness to every bite.
5️⃣ VARIATIONS & CUSTOMIZATIONS
Use Ground Turkey for a Lighter Option
Since the recipe allows for ground beef or turkey, choosing turkey gives you a leaner version with slightly lighter flavor while keeping the dish satisfying and protein-rich.
Make It Extra Cheesy
If you love a creamy topping, be generous with the optional shredded cheese. You can also stir a small portion into the casserole during the last 30 minutes for a more integrated cheesy texture.
Adjust the Cooking Texture
For softer cabbage, cook closer to the 8-hour mark on low. If you prefer a bit more texture, check for doneness closer to 6 hours.
Boost the Herb Flavor
If you enjoy a stronger herb presence, slightly increase the dried oregano and basil to suit your preference. Small adjustments can personalize the dish without changing its core ingredients.
Make It Ahead
This casserole tastes even better the next day. Prepare it in advance and store in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently for a quick and flavorful dinner.
6️⃣ FAQ
Can I prepare this the night before?
Yes. You can fully assemble the casserole in the crockpot insert, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, place it into the slow cooker base and cook as directed.
How do I know when the rice is done?
The rice should be tender and fully expanded. If it still feels firm in the center, allow additional cooking time in 20–30 minute increments until softened.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely. Let the casserole cool completely, then portion into airtight containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why is my casserole watery?
Cabbage naturally releases moisture as it cooks. If there is extra liquid, simply stir before serving — the rice typically absorbs most of it as it rests.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes. Cooking on high for 3–4 hours works well when you’re short on time. Just make sure the rice is fully cooked and the cabbage is tender before serving.
7️⃣ NUTRITION & TIME TABLE
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 6–8 hours |
| Total Time | 6–8 hours 20 minutes |
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 40 g |
| Fat | 10 g |
Crockpot Cabbage Roll Casserole
Description
A comforting slow cooker casserole with tender cabbage, seasoned meat, rice, and rich tomato flavor — all the taste of classic cabbage rolls made easy.
Ingredients
• 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 cup uncooked rice
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef or turkey until thoroughly cooked. Drain excess fat and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for 2–3 minutes until translucent.
3. In a large bowl, mix cooked meat, onion, garlic, uncooked rice, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Layer half of the chopped cabbage in the crockpot. Spoon half of the meat mixture over it. Repeat layers.
5. Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until cabbage is tender and rice is cooked through.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top during the last 30 minutes of cooking, if desired.
