Crock Pot Cabbage Roll Casserole is the ultimate comfort food for busy families who crave hearty, home cooked meals without spending hours in the kitchen. This slow cooker version delivers all the classic flavors of traditional cabbage rolls, but without the tedious rolling and stuffing. Tender cabbage, savory ground beef or pork, rich tomato sauce, and perfectly cooked rice simmer together into one satisfying dish. With just 20 minutes of prep time and a few pantry staples, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker does the work. It is easy, filling, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Cabbage Roll Casserole
There are so many reasons this Crock Pot Cabbage Roll Casserole deserves a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.
- First, it saves time. Traditional cabbage rolls require blanching leaves, stuffing, rolling, and baking. This casserole skips all of that and delivers the same comforting flavor in half the effort.
- Second, it is budget friendly. Cabbage, rice, and ground meat are affordable ingredients that stretch beautifully to feed eight generous servings.
- Third, it is packed with nutrients. Cabbage is rich in vitamin C and fiber, while lean ground beef provides high quality protein and iron.
- Finally, it is family approved. Even picky eaters love the cheesy, tomato rich flavor. It tastes like it simmered all day because it actually did.
Ingredients
Here is everything you need to make this easy slow cooker cabbage roll casserole:
-
1 ½ pounds lean ground beef or ground pork, or a mixture
-
3 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 onion, diced
-
15 ounces tomato sauce, divided
-
1 cup water
-
10.75 ounces condensed tomato soup, 1 can
-
28 ounces canned diced tomatoes with juices
-
Salt and pepper to taste
-
1 teaspoon paprika
-
1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
-
¾ cup long grain white rice, uncooked
-
1 medium head cabbage
-
⅓ cup water
-
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, optional
These simple ingredients come together to create a rich, comforting dish with layers of flavor.
Step by Step: How to Make Crock Pot Cabbage Roll Casserole
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or pork along with the diced onion, minced garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the meat is fully browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily.
Next, stir in one cup of tomato sauce, one cup of water, half of the condensed tomato soup, and the entire can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Mix well to combine all the flavors. Add the uncooked rice and stir until everything is evenly distributed. Allow the mixture to heat through, then remove it from the stove.
Prepare the cabbage by cutting it into four wedges and removing the tough core. Chop the cabbage into bite sized chunks, roughly three quarters inch by one and a half inches.
In your slow cooker, create layers for maximum flavor. Start with half of the meat and rice mixture, then add half of the chopped cabbage. Repeat the layers with the remaining meat mixture and cabbage.
In a small bowl, combine the remaining tomato soup, remaining tomato sauce, and one third cup water. Pour this evenly over the top of the casserole.
Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the rice is tender and fully cooked. Once done, turn off the slow cooker. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, cover again, and let it sit for about 10 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully.
Helpful Tips
To ensure perfect results every time, keep these tips in mind.
Use lean meat to reduce excess grease. If you prefer a richer flavor, a mix of beef and pork works beautifully.
Do not skip draining the browned meat. Too much liquid can affect the final texture.
Chop the cabbage into uniform pieces so it cooks evenly.
Check the rice at the four hour mark. Slow cookers can vary, and you want tender rice without overcooking.
If your casserole looks slightly dry, add a few tablespoons of warm water during cooking.
Substitutions And Variations
This recipe is versatile and easy to customize.
Swap ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Brown rice can be used instead of white rice, but you may need to extend the cooking time slightly and add extra liquid.
For a low carb version, substitute cauliflower rice for the white rice. Add it during the last hour of cooking to prevent it from becoming too soft.
If you enjoy bold flavors, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Cheese is optional, but cheddar or Monterey Jack also work well if you prefer a sharper flavor profile.
Storage Instructions
Crock Pot Cabbage Roll Casserole stores beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep.
Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days.
To freeze, place portions in freezer safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for two to three minutes, stirring halfway through. You can also reheat larger portions in the oven at 350 degrees until warmed through.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately:
-
Calories: 334
-
Carbohydrates: 35 grams
-
Protein: 28 grams
-
Fat: 10 grams
-
Saturated Fat: 5 grams
-
Cholesterol: 69 milligrams
-
Sodium: 773 milligrams
-
Potassium: 1125 milligrams
-
Fiber: 6 grams
-
Sugar: 12 grams
-
Vitamin A: 880 IU
-
Vitamin C: 61 milligrams
-
Calcium: 212 milligrams
-
Iron: 5 milligrams
This balance of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients makes it a satisfying and nourishing meal option.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty casserole with a simple green salad and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the tomato sauce and cheese.
Crusty whole grain bread or garlic bread pairs wonderfully to soak up every bit of the flavorful sauce.
For a lighter plate, serve smaller portions alongside roasted vegetables like carrots or green beans.
This dish is also ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or cozy Sunday dinners. It holds heat well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Cabbage Roll Casserole
Can I make Crock Pot Cabbage Roll Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the meat and tomato mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply layer it with the cabbage in the slow cooker and start cooking.
Do I need to cook the rice before adding it?
No, the rice cooks directly in the slow cooker. It absorbs the flavorful tomato sauce and becomes tender as the casserole simmers.
Can I use pre shredded cabbage?
Absolutely. Bagged coleslaw mix can save time. Just make sure it does not contain dressing.
How do I prevent mushy cabbage?
Avoid overcooking. Check for doneness around the four hour mark and turn off the slow cooker once the rice is tender.
Is this recipe gluten free?
Check the labels on your tomato soup and sauces. Many brands offer gluten free options.
Final Thoughts
Thank you so much for spending time in the kitchen with this Crock Pot Cabbage Roll Casserole recipe. It is one of those meals that proves comfort food does not have to be complicated. I truly love how easy it is to prepare and how the flavors come together so beautifully in the slow cooker. The tender cabbage, savory meat, and rich tomato sauce create a dish that feels both nostalgic and satisfying. I hope it becomes a favorite at your dinner table just like it has at mine. Happy cooking, and thank you for being part of this wonderful food loving community.
Print
Crock Pot Cabbage Roll Casserole
- Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Crock Pot Cabbage Roll Casserole is an easy slow cooker dinner made with ground beef, tender cabbage, rice, and rich tomato sauce. It delivers all the classic cabbage roll flavors without the extra work. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a crowd.
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds lean ground beef or ground pork, or a mixture
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 onion, diced
15 ounces tomato sauce, divided
1 cup water
10.75 ounces condensed tomato soup, 1 can
28 ounces canned diced tomatoes with juices
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
¾ cup long grain white rice, uncooked
1 medium head cabbage, chopped
⅓ cup water
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese, optional
Instructions
- Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or pork along with the diced onion, minced garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the meat is fully browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess grease to keep the casserole from becoming too oily.
- Next, stir in one cup of tomato sauce, one cup of water, half of the condensed tomato soup, and the entire can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Mix well to combine all the flavors. Add the uncooked rice and stir until everything is evenly distributed. Allow the mixture to heat through, then remove it from the stove.
- Prepare the cabbage by cutting it into four wedges and removing the tough core. Chop the cabbage into bite sized chunks, roughly three quarters inch by one and a half inches.
- In your slow cooker, create layers for maximum flavor. Start with half of the meat and rice mixture, then add half of the chopped cabbage. Repeat the layers with the remaining meat mixture and cabbage.
- In a small bowl, combine the remaining tomato soup, remaining tomato sauce, and one third cup water. Pour this evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the rice is tender and fully cooked. Once done, turn off the slow cooker. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top, cover again, and let it sit for about 10 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully.
Notes
Use lean meat to prevent excess grease.
Check rice at the 4 hour mark to avoid overcooking.
Brown rice may require additional cooking time and extra liquid.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator up to 4 days or freeze up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American