Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it apart as it cooks, then drain excess fat.

Add the browned beef to the slow cooker along with chopped cabbage, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, rice, onion, and garlic.

Stir in brown sugar, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.

Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until cabbage is tender and rice is fully cooked.

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving hot.