Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cabbage Roll Soup is a savory, hearty dish that brings the flavors of classic stuffed cabbage rolls into a comforting and easy-to-make soup. Packed with tender cabbage, lean ground beef, and rice, this soup is both satisfying and nutritious. With its rich tomato broth and a mix of seasonings, it’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day or feeding a crowd. It’s a one-pot meal that tastes like the traditional cabbage rolls but with far less effort!

Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
4 cups beef broth
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot with the beef and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is softened.
Add the Cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it begins to soften.
Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth to the pot. Stir in the basil, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer.
Simmer the Soup: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Add the Rice: Stir in the cooked rice and let the soup cook for another 5 minutes to heat the rice through.
Serve and Enjoy: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with additional herbs or a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 6-8
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

Add Ground Turkey: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey for a leaner version of this soup.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the meat and use vegetable broth, adding extra beans or lentils for protein.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a little heat.
Add More Vegetables: You can add carrots, bell peppers, or celery to boost the vegetable content.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Cabbage Roll Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing: This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. If it’s too thick, add a bit of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, Cabbage Roll Soup actually tastes better after sitting for a day as the flavors develop. You can make it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

2. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used in place of beef for a lighter option, and it will still give the soup great flavor.

3. Can I skip the rice in this recipe?

Yes, you can skip the rice if you want to reduce the carbs or simply don’t have any on hand. The soup will still be delicious, and you can substitute with another grain like quinoa or barley if you like.

4. Is Cabbage Roll Soup spicy?

No, this soup is not spicy, but you can easily add some heat by incorporating red pepper flakes or jalapeños if you prefer a spicy kick.

5. Can I use pre-cooked rice?

Yes, using pre-cooked rice is a great shortcut! Just add it to the soup in the final steps to heat through.

6. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, you can absolutely add extra vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

7. Can I freeze Cabbage Roll Soup?

Yes, this soup freezes really well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container, and it will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

8. How do I make this soup vegetarian?

To make this soup vegetarian, simply replace the beef with beans or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors without the meat.

9. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Brown the beef and onions first, then add everything else to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

10. What’s the best way to serve this soup?

You can serve this soup with a slice of crusty bread or top it with a dollop of sour cream or some shredded cheese for extra richness.

Conclusion

Cabbage Roll Soup is a comforting and flavorful meal that combines the heartiness of cabbage rolls with the ease of a one-pot soup. It’s filling, nutritious, and customizable to suit your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a meal to warm you up on a cold day or simply need a satisfying dish for the family, this soup is sure to hit the spot. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting texture in every spoonful!

Jane