Tender cabbage leaves topped with savory seasoned ground beef, rich tomato sauce, and a generous layer of melted mozzarella and cheddar cheese. This comforting slow cooker meal is easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Preparation & Cooking Time

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 4–5 hours on LOW or 2–3 hours on HIGH
  • Total Time: Approximately 5 hours
  • Servings: 6
  • Difficulty: Easy
    Ingredients
    For the Cabbage:
  • 1 large head green cabbage
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
    For the Ground Beef Mixture:
  • 1½ pounds lean ground beef
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
    For the Tomato Sauce:
  • 1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • ½ cup beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
    For the Cheesy Topping:
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
    Instructions
    Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
  1. Remove any damaged outer cabbage leaves.
  2. Wash the cabbage and cut it into thick wedges or large portions.
  3. Carefully separate a few leaves if needed.
  4. Set aside.
    Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
  5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  6. Add ground beef and diced onion.
  7. Cook for 6–8 minutes, breaking up the beef until browned.
  8. Add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce.
  9. Cook for another minute.
  10. Drain excess grease if necessary.
    Step 3: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
  11. In a bowl, combine tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  12. Stir until everything is well combined.
  13. Pour a layer of sauce into the bottom of the slow cooker.
    Step 4: Assemble the Cabbage
  14. Arrange the cabbage wedges or large leaves inside the slow cooker.
  15. Spoon the seasoned ground beef mixture generously over each cabbage portion.
  16. Pour the remaining tomato sauce around and over the cabbage.
  17. Cover with the lid.
    Step 5: Slow Cook
  • Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours.
  • Alternatively, cook on HIGH for 2–3 hours.
    Cook until the cabbage is tender and the beef mixture is fully heated through. Check that the cabbage is soft but still holds its shape.

Step 6: Add the Cheese

  1. Sprinkle mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese evenly over the beef-topped cabbage.
  2. Cover the slow cooker again.
  3. Cook for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is completely melted.
  4. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
    Step 7: Serve

Carefully lift each cheesy cabbage portion onto a plate. Spoon extra tomato sauce over the top and serve warm!
Nutritional Information
Estimated per serving; based on 6 servings.

  • Calories: 390 kcal
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 17g
  • Fat: 23g
  • Fiber: 5g
  • Sugar: 9g
  • Net Carbs: 12g
  • Sodium: 780mg
    Nutrition values vary depending on the ground beef, cheese, broth, and tomato products used.
    Nut Information & Allergy Details
  • Peanuts: Not included.
  • Almonds: Not included.
  • Walnuts: Not included.
  • Cashews: Not included.
  • Pecans: Not included.
  • Pistachios: Not included.
  • Hazelnuts: Not included.
  • Other Tree Nuts: Not included.
    Naturally Nut-Free Recipe
    Potential Allergens:
  • Milk: Mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheese.
  • Soy: Some Worcestershire sauces may contain soy.
  • Gluten: Check Worcestershire sauce and broth labels. Use certified gluten-free products if needed.
    Allergy Note: This recipe contains dairy and may have cross-contamination risks depending on packaged ingredients. Always check product labels.
    Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
    Q1: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the beef mixture and tomato sauce a day ahead. Refrigerate separately and assemble when ready to cook.

Q2: Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or ground chicken works well as a lighter alternative.

Q3: Can I make this recipe without cheese?

Yes. Simply leave out the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan. The cabbage and beef will still be delicious.

Q4: Can I use red cabbage?

Green cabbage is recommended because it becomes tender and has a milder flavor. Red cabbage can also be used, but the texture and flavor will be slightly different.

Q5: Can I make this recipe low-carb?

Yes! The recipe is naturally relatively low in carbohydrates. Use tomato products without added sugar and check the labels of your seasonings.

Q6: Can I make it in the oven?

Yes. Assemble in a covered baking dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 45–60 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender. Add cheese during the final 10–15 minutes.

Q7: How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.

Q8: Can I freeze this recipe?

Yes. Allow it to cool completely and freeze in airtight containers for up to 2–3 months. The cabbage may become softer after thawing.

Q9: How do I make it less salty?

Use no-salt-added tomato sauce, low-sodium beef broth, reduced-sodium Worcestershire sauce, and adjust the added salt to taste.

Q10: How do I know when the beef is fully cooked?

Ground beef should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).
Helpful Tips for the Best Results

  • Brown the ground beef before adding it to the slow cooker for deeper flavor.
  • Avoid adding too much broth because cabbage releases moisture as it cooks.
  • Use freshly shredded cheese for better melting.
  • Don’t overcook the cabbage, or it may become mushy.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley for extra freshness and color.