Slow Cooker Cabbage, Ground Beef & Rice
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 4–6 hours (Low) or 2–3 hours (High)
Servings: 6
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) Ground beef (lean works best)
1 small head Green cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces
1 cup Uncooked white rice (long-grain or jasmine)
1 jar (24 oz) Marinara sauce or crushed tomatoes
1 small Yellow onion, diced
2 cloves Garlic, minced
1 cup Beef broth (or water)
1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional, for depth)
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Brown the Beef: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef with the diced onions and garlic until the meat is browned. Drain any excess fat.
Note: While some slow cooker recipes put meat in raw, browning it first adds much better flavor and texture!
Layer the Slow Cooker: Place the chopped cabbage at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the browned beef and onion mixture on top.
Add Rice and Sauce: Pour the uncooked rice over the beef. Follow with the marinara sauce and the beef broth.
Season: Add salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Give it a gentle stir to ensure the rice is submerged in the liquid so it cooks evenly.
Cook: Cover and cook on Low for 4 to 6 hours or on High for 2 to 3 hours.
Serve: Once the rice is tender and the cabbage is soft, stir everything together. Serve hot in bowls.
Tips for Success
Rice Texture: If you prefer your rice very firm, you can cook it separately and stir it in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a tangy “sweet and sour” cabbage roll vibe.
Cheese: Many people love topping this with a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella or cheddar right before serving.