If you’ve ever loved the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls but wanted a quicker, easier way to enjoy that delicious combination, this Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is going to become your new best friend. It’s like all the cozy goodness of cabbage rolls captured in a hearty, warming soup. With tender cabbage, savory ground beef, rice, and a rich tomato broth bursting with herbs and smoky notes, every spoonful feels like a comforting hug. Plus, it’s straightforward enough to whip up any night of the week and satisfy the whole family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this soup lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role, whether it’s adding deep savory flavors, a bit of texture, or vibrant color. These essentials come together beautifully without any fuss, making this recipe both approachable and delicious.
- Ground Beef (1 pound): Using lean beef keeps the soup hearty without being overly greasy.
- Onion, diced (1 large): Provides a natural sweetness that balances the tomato acidity.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Adds a fragrant depth that complements the savory notes.
- Cabbage, chopped (1 medium head): This is the star ingredient with a delightful crunch that softens to tender perfection.
- Uncooked Rice (1 cup): Long-grain white or brown rice soaks up the flavors while giving satisfying bite.
- Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 ounces): Brings acidity and a touch of sweetness to brighten the broth.
- Beef Broth (6 cups): The rich base that ties all the ingredients together perfectly.
- Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons): Boosts the tomato intensity and deepens the color.
- Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, earthy herbal note that enriches the soup.
- Smoked Paprika (1 teaspoon): Introduces a subtle smoky flavor that makes the soup uniquely delicious.
- Salt and Pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the other flavors.
- Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, bright finish that lifts the overall presentation.
How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, dice the onion finely, and mince the garlic cloves. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat a little oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute, releasing their wonderful aromas that will set the foundation for the soup.
Step 3: Brown the Meat
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pot. Break it up with a spoon, cooking until the beef is nicely browned and no longer pink. If needed, drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
Step 4: Add the Cabbage
Stir in the chopped cabbage and let it cook for about 5 minutes. It will start to soften and wilt, releasing its natural sweetness while mingling with the beef and aromatics.
Step 5: Incorporate the Remaining Ingredients
Now it’s time to add the star components: diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, and uncooked rice. Sprinkle in the dried oregano, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine all those flavors beautifully.
Step 6: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes. This allows the rice and cabbage to become tender while the flavors deepen into a rich, hearty broth.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
Give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Maybe it needs a pinch more salt or a touch of pepper. This is your moment to tailor the flavors exactly to your liking.
Step 8: Serve Hot
Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle generously with freshly chopped parsley. This final touch adds a pop of color and a fresh brightness that makes every bite even more delightful. Serve it warm with crusty bread or your favorite crackers for a truly comforting meal.
How to Serve Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the go-to garnish here because it adds that fresh herbaceous note that perfectly balances the rich, smoky flavors. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese can also elevate this soup into something truly special.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic toast, or even buttery dinner rolls. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the warm, hearty soup wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in bread bowls for an impressive presentation that’s perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. You could also spoon it over mashed potatoes or serve alongside stuffed cabbage for a cabbage-themed feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps very well in the fridge for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container to maintain its vibrant flavors and prevent it from absorbing other odors. It’s perfect for weekday lunches or quick dinners after a busy day.
Freezing
To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Keep in mind the rice might absorb some broth during storage, but reheating with a splash of broth or water will freshen it right up.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. If the soup seems thick, add a little beef broth or water to loosen it. Microwaving is also fine for shortcuts—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be great lean alternatives to beef, giving you a slightly different flavor but maintaining that same hearty texture. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly during the browning step.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! You can swap out the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or hearty mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The cabbage, rice, and tomato base still shine beautifully in a vegetarian version.
Can I use pre-cooked rice to speed up the process?
You can, but since uncooked rice absorbs flavors as it cooks in the broth, using pre-cooked rice means you’ll want to add it closer to the end of cooking to avoid mushiness. Add pre-cooked rice about 10 minutes before finishing to warm through without disintegrating.
What type of cabbage is best for this soup?
Green cabbage is the classic choice and offers the best texture and flavor balance. However, you can use savoy or Napa cabbage for a milder taste and softer leaves, just adjust cooking time slightly as these varieties wilt faster.
How spicy is the soup? Can I make it spicier?
This recipe has a mild warmth thanks to smoked paprika, but no real heat. If you love spice, feel free to add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or hot sauce to taste. It’s easy to customize so it warms you up just right!
Final Thoughts
This Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is such a comforting and satisfying way to enjoy all the great flavors of stuffed cabbage without all the fuss. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or just looking for a soulful bowl of goodness, this soup delivers every time. Go ahead, give it a try and let its hearty, warm flavors turn any day into something special.
Print
Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This hearty Cabbage Roll Soup brings all the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls into a warm, easy-to-make soup. Featuring lean ground beef, tender cabbage, rice, and a flavorful tomato-beef broth infused with aromatic spices, this recipe makes for a satisfying meal perfect for chilly days or anytime you crave a wholesome, home-cooked dish.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 pound Ground Beef (Opt for a leaner variety for a healthier soup.)
- 1 large Onion, diced (Adds sweetness and depth to the soup.)
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced (Enhances the overall taste of the soup.)
Vegetables and Grains
- 1 medium head Cabbage, chopped (The star of this dish, lending unique flavor and texture.)
- 1 cup Uncooked Rice (Choose long-grain white or brown rice.)
Liquids and Seasonings
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) Diced Tomatoes (Adds acidity and sweetness to the broth.)
- 6 cups Beef Broth (Serves as the soup’s base.)
- 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste (Intensifies the tomato flavor.)
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano (Contributes a warm, earthy flavor.)
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Adds a subtle smokiness.)
- Salt and Pepper, to taste (Essential for seasoning.)
Garnish
- Fresh Parsley, chopped (Adds a fresh finish to the soup.)
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: Gather all the ingredients. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, dice the onion finely, and mince the garlic cloves to ensure even flavor dispersion throughout the soup.
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, heat 1-2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release its aroma without burning.
- Brow the meat: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a wooden spoon and cook until fully browned and no pink remains, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the pot to keep the soup from being too greasy.
- Add the cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage, mixing well with the beef and aromatics. Cook uncovered for about 5 minutes until the cabbage begins to wilt and soften, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Incorporate remaining ingredients: Add the diced tomatoes with their juices, beef broth, tomato paste, uncooked rice, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer gently for about 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cabbage is fully cooked, flavors melding beautifully.
- Taste and adjust: Remove the lid and taste the soup. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed to suit your preference. Stir well before serving.
- Serve hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish each serving with freshly chopped parsley. Serve warm alongside crusty bread or crackers for a complete, comforting meal.
Notes
- For a healthier twist, use lean ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, add an extra 1/2 cup of rice or cook uncovered to reduce some liquid.
- Brown rice can be used but may require a longer cooking time; adjust simmering accordingly.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- This soup can be enhanced with a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end to brighten the flavors, similar to traditional cabbage rolls.
