If you’re craving all the comforting warmth of classic cabbage rolls but want something quicker and easier to enjoy any night of the week, this Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is going to be your new best friend. It’s like wrapping those beloved flavors into a cozy, rich tomato broth brimming with tender cabbage, satisfying ground beef, and just the right touch of rice to soak up every last drop. Every spoonful feels like a hug from the inside, perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you want a comforting, wholesome meal without fussing over rolling individual cabbage leaves. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, familiar ingredients come together to create layers of flavor and satisfying textures in this soup. Each one plays a key role—from the hearty ground beef bringing savory richness to the soft cabbage adding a subtle crunch and freshness that complements the bright crushed tomatoes and fragrant garlic perfectly.
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey: Choose beef for richness or turkey for a lighter option, both give great texture and protein.
- 1 Tbsp olive oil: Helps gently brown the meat and soften the onions without sticking.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth as it cooks down, essential for the soup’s base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives that irresistible aromatic punch you’ll love in every bite.
- ½ head green cabbage, chopped: Provides bulk and a slight crunch that softens into tenderness during simmering.
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes: The heart of the broth, bringing acidity and vibrant color.
- 4 cups beef broth: Intensifies the meaty flavor while keeping the soup perfectly soupy.
- ½ cup uncooked rice: Adds subtle chewiness and helps thicken the soup as it cooks.
- 1 tsp paprika: Brings a warm, smoky note and deepens the flavor beautifully.
- Salt & pepper: Essential for balancing flavors to taste.
How to Make Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat with Onion and Garlic
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until it begins to brown, breaking it up as it cooks. Toss in the diced onions and minced garlic and sauté until the onion softens and everything smells wonderfully fragrant. This foundational flavor layer is where the magic begins.
Step 2: Add Cabbage, Tomatoes, Broth, and Rice
Once the meat mixture is ready, stir in the chopped cabbage, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and uncooked rice. The cabbage will gently wilt and become tender as the rice plumps up, soaking in all those savory juices. This mixture is the heart of your soup, balancing texture and comfort in each spoonful.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
Season the pot with paprika, salt, and pepper, giving it a good stir. Reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 25 to 30 minutes. During this time, the cabbage softens perfectly, the rice becomes tender but not mushy, and all the flavors meld into a harmonious, soul-satisfying broth. You’re almost there!
How to Serve Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Garnishes
The simple, rich flavors of this soup pair beautifully with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and creaminess. You could even add a few crumbled bacon bits for extra smokiness or fresh cracked black pepper for a little zing that wakes up the palate.
Side Dishes
This soup shines best alongside crusty bread or homemade garlic rolls that are perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also brighten the meal and balance the hearty richness wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family dinner, serve the soup in rustic bowls with a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top and a drizzle of good olive oil. Hosting friends? Present it in mini mason jars with tiny spoons for an adorable and cozy appetizer. Either way, the warmth and heartiness of this Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe will shine through.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup holds up brilliantly in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just cool it completely before transferring to an airtight container, then reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. The flavors often deepen after resting, making leftovers even tastier.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this soup freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly to maintain that perfect texture and flavor.
Reheating
Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the soup has thickened up in the fridge or freezer, add a splash of broth or water to return it to the perfect consistency. Reheating it slowly ensures you keep the tender cabbage and rice just right.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great lean alternative and will still deliver plenty of flavor. You might want to add a little extra olive oil when browning it to keep things juicy.
Is white or brown rice better for this soup?
White rice works best because it cooks faster and becomes tender within the simmering time, but if you prefer brown rice, soak it beforehand or cook it separately and add it later to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, just swap out the ground meat with hearty mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The soup will still be delicious and comforting!
Why does the rice sometimes get mushy?
If you simmer the soup too long or use too much rice, it can become mushy. Stick to the suggested amount and simmer time for the best texture.
Can I add other vegetables?
Definitely! Diced carrots or celery add nice texture and sweetness. Just add them early enough to soften during the simmer.
Final Thoughts
This Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is such a joyful, fuss-free way to enjoy those beloved cabbage roll flavors without the extra work. It’s nurturing, comforting, and filled with things you probably already have in your kitchen. Give it a try soon—you’ll be smiling with every spoonful and wondering where this easy, delicious soup has been all your life.
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Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This hearty Cabbage Soup captures all the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in a simple, tomato-based soup. Made with ground beef, rice, tender cabbage, and a blend of savory seasonings, this filling dish is perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- ½ cup uncooked rice
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the meat: In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef or turkey along with the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and the onions are soft, about 6-8 minutes.
- Add vegetables and liquids: Stir in the chopped cabbage, crushed tomatoes, and beef broth. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Add rice and seasonings: Add the uncooked rice and paprika to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together thoroughly.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the rice is cooked through.
- Final touches: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. For added tanginess, consider adding a splash of vinegar before serving.
Notes
- Adding a splash of vinegar near the end of cooking brightens the flavors and lends a pleasant tang.
- For a leaner option, use ground turkey instead of ground beef.
- You can substitute white rice with brown rice, but cooking time may need to be extended.
- This soup freezes well—store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Eastern European
