Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Slow Cooker Hack
✅ Minimal ingredients – Just 3 staples
✅ Zero prep cooking – No browning, no stirring
✅ Budget-friendly – One of the cheapest side dishes ever
✅ Slow cooker magic – The cabbage turns tender and flavorful
✅ Great with meats or on its own
What You’ll Need – Just 3 Key Ingredients
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1 head of green cabbage – Cut into wedges, about 6–8 pieces
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½ cup unsalted butter – Sliced or melted
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1 packet dry onion soup mix – Adds rich, savory flavor (like Lipton or store-brand)
🧄 Optional: Add garlic powder, black pepper, or a splash of broth for more depth
How to Make It – Step-by-Step
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
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Remove the outer leaves from your cabbage.
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Cut into 6 to 8 thick wedges, keeping the core intact to hold them together.
Step 2: Layer in the Slow Cooker
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Lightly grease your slow cooker insert or use a liner for easy cleanup.
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Arrange cabbage wedges snugly in a single layer or stack in two layers, depending on size.
Step 3: Add Butter and Seasoning
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Sprinkle the onion soup mix evenly over the cabbage.
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Dot the top with slices of butter or pour melted butter over everything.
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Optional: Add ¼ cup water or chicken broth for extra moisture.
Step 4: Cover and Cook
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Cover with lid and cook on LOW for 5–6 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.
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The cabbage will become fork-tender, sweet, and infused with that buttery, oniony goodness.
Why This Recipe Works
🥬 Cabbage gets sweeter and more tender as it slow cooks
🧈 Butter adds richness and helps carry the flavor of the soup mix
🧅 Onion soup mix provides instant seasoning with no extra work
🔥 Slow heat lets everything soften and absorb flavor evenly
Optional Add-Ins & Variations
💥 Spicy Twist – Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce
🧀 Cheesy Finish – Sprinkle shredded cheese in the last 10 minutes
🥓 Bacon Boost – Add pre-cooked bacon crumbles before serving
🥔 Hearty Additions – Add small diced potatoes or carrots to cook with the cabbage
🥩 Protein Option – Nestle in smoked sausage, kielbasa, or leftover ham for a full meal
Serving Suggestions
This slow-cooked cabbage pairs perfectly with:
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Roasted chicken, pork chops, or meatloaf
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Mashed potatoes or baked sweet potatoes
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Rice, quinoa, or crusty bread
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As a side to corned beef, ham, or sausage
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On its own with extra butter for a vegetarian dish
🥄 Pro Tip: Spoon leftover juices over the top for added flavor and moisture.
Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating
Storage:
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing:
You can freeze portions, but cabbage may soften further upon reheating.
Reheating:
Microwave or reheat in a covered skillet over low heat until warmed through.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx. 6 servings)
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Calories: ~150
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Fat: 12g
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Carbs: 8g
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Fiber: 3g
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Protein: 1g
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Sodium: Varies by soup mix used
Use low-sodium onion mix or DIY blend to reduce salt content.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use red cabbage?
Yes, but it will cook darker and slightly firmer. Green cabbage is preferred for a soft, buttery result.
Do I need to stir it?
Nope! Just layer, season, and cook—no stirring required.
Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
Yes, but butter gives a much richer flavor. Try ghee for a healthier alternative.
Is this gluten-free?
It depends on the onion soup mix—check the label or use a homemade blend to make it GF.
Final Thoughts
If you've never tried putting raw cabbage wedges in a slow cooker with just 3 ingredients, you're seriously missing out on one of the easiest and most flavorful side dishes ever. It’s hearty, hands-off, and deeply satisfying, proving that simple recipes often deliver the biggest flavor.
Try it once, and it’ll quickly become part of your weeknight dinner rotation—or your go-to holiday side.
📌 Save, Share & Try It Tonight!
📍 Pin this to your Slow Cooker Recipes or Budget Meals board
📷 Tag your creations with #CabbageSlowCookerHack
💬 Leave a comment: What’s your favorite soup mix or veggie combo?
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