If you’ve ever loved the comforting taste of traditional cabbage rolls but wished for a quicker, more soupy version to cozy up with, you’re in for a treat. This Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe captures all those classic flavors in a hearty, warming bowl that’s perfect for any day when you need a little extra comfort. The combination of tender cabbage, rich ground meat, tangy tomatoes, and perfectly cooked rice all simmer together in a flavorful broth that tastes like a hug in a bowl. Trust me, once you make this, it’s going to become one of your go-to meals as much as it is for me!
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of straightforward ingredients, this soup is both easy and rewarding to make. Each component plays an important role—from the savory ground beef adding depth, to the bright tomatoes that lend a lovely tang, and of course the cabbage which brings that satisfying texture and earthiness.
- Ground beef: Use 1 pound for a rich, meaty base; mixing some pork works well too if you like.
- Onion: One large diced onion gives sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- Garlic: Three cloves minced add just the right punch of aroma and flavor.
- Cabbage: A medium head chopped to about 8 cups provides the star vegetable with great texture.
- Diced tomatoes: Two 14.5-ounce cans bring acidity and juiciness.
- Tomato sauce: One 15-ounce can makes the broth rich and comforting.
- Tomato paste: Two tablespoons intensify the tomato flavor.
- Beef broth: Four cups create the perfect savory base for simmering.
- Long-grain white rice: Half a cup cooks tenderly right in the soup.
- Bay leaves: Two bay leaves give subtle herbal notes.
- Dried thyme: One teaspoon for a gentle earthiness.
- Paprika: One teaspoon adds mild warmth and color.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): Quarter teaspoon for a bit of lively heat, if you like.
- Salt and pepper: To taste, balancing all the flavors perfectly.
- Fresh parsley: Two tablespoons chopped, to garnish and brighten the final presentation.
How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef (or beef and pork mix) and cook until nicely browned and cooked through. This step is crucial because browning develops a deep, savory flavor that forms the backbone of the soup. Once browned, drain any excess fat to avoid greasiness.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these until the onions become translucent and soft, releasing their natural sweetness into the pot. The garlic infuses everything with that irresistible aroma, making your kitchen smell amazing even before the soup starts simmering.
Step 3: Add Cabbage and Tomatoes
Now, stir in the chopped cabbage followed by the canned diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. This trio of tomato ingredients layers on acidity, sweetness, and a rich tomato flavor that perfectly balances the cabbage and meat. Mixing everything thoroughly lets each piece soak in those delicious flavors.
Step 4: Pour in Broth and Add Rice plus Seasonings
Pour in the beef broth next and add in the uncooked long-grain white rice along with bay leaves, dried thyme, paprika, and the optional cayenne pepper. These herbs and spices bring warmth and complexity, while the rice will cook right in the broth, absorbing all those savory notes and softening to a lovely texture.
Step 5: Simmer Until Tender
Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer gently for 25-30 minutes. This slow cooking allows the cabbage and rice to become tender and the flavors to harmonize beautifully. Keep the lid on to trap the steam and keep the soup moist.
Step 6: Season to Perfection
Give your soup a taste test and adjust salt and pepper accordingly. If you want a little extra tang or creaminess, add a splash of lemon juice or a dollop of sour cream just before serving. These small additions can brighten up the bowl and add a lovely contrast to the rich broth.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Now all that’s left is to ladle your comforting bowl of cabbage roll soup into mugs or bowls and savor every spoonful. It’s a meal that feels both nostalgic and fresh, cozy and vibrant. Perfect for sharing with loved ones!
How to Serve Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top instantly elevates the soup’s appearance and flavor. If you’re feeling indulgent, a swirl of sour cream or a few grinds of black pepper add beautiful finishing touches that complement the soup’s texture and taste.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls, perfect for dipping and soaking up every bit of the delicious broth. A light green salad on the side balances the heartiness with some fresh crunch, making your meal feel complete and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the cabbage roll soup in small bread bowls for a rustic, inviting look. You could also top each bowl with a bit of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese and pop it under the broiler for a minute to melt the cheese and add a delightful gooey layer. Either way, presentation can make this simple soup feel special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Freezing
Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe freezes beautifully, making it a convenient option for busy days. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your soup slowly over medium heat on the stove, stirring often. You might need to add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much. This careful reheating preserves the cabbage’s texture and keeps the flavors nice and fresh.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in the Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative and works well in this soup. Just keep in mind it might be a little less rich in flavor, so you may want to add an extra pinch of seasoning or a splash of broth to enhance it.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the ground meat for hearty mushrooms or cooked lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The texture and taste will be different but still delicious and satisfying.
What type of rice works best in this soup?
Long-grain white rice is ideal as it cooks perfectly in the broth without getting too sticky. You could use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time and possibly more liquid.
Can I add other vegetables to the Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe?
Definitely! Diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers are great additions that add extra flavor, color, and nutrition. Just add them along with the onions and garlic for even cooking.
How spicy is the soup with cayenne pepper?
The cayenne pepper adds a gentle heat that warms up the soup without overpowering it. If you prefer no spice, simply omit it and the soup will still be wonderfully flavorful.
Final Thoughts
This Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is truly a heartwarming meal that brings all the beloved flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls into a cozy, easy-to-make bowl. I encourage you to try it as soon as possible—whether for a busy weeknight dinner or to feed a crowd, it’s one soup that delivers comfort and satisfaction in every spoonful.
Print
Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty and comforting Cabbage Roll Soup brings the classic flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in an easy-to-make soup form. Loaded with ground beef, tender cabbage, tomatoes, and seasoned with paprika and thyme, this soup is perfect for a warming meal. It’s simple to prepare on the stovetop and makes eight generous servings, ideal for families or meal prep.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef (or mix of beef and pork)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped (about 8 cups)
Tomatoes and Sauces
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Liquids and Grains
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
Seasonings
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat over medium-high heat and brown the ground beef (or beef and pork mix) until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the browned meat. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onions are translucent and fragrant, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Cabbage and Tomato Base: Stir in the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Mix everything thoroughly to combine the fresh and canned ingredients evenly.
- Incorporate Rice and Broth: Add the uncooked long-grain white rice, beef broth, bay leaves, dried thyme, paprika, cayenne pepper if using, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well, then increase the heat and bring the soup to a rolling boil.
- Simmer the Soup: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, or until the rice and cabbage are tender and flavors have melded together.
- Season to Taste: Remove from heat and taste the soup. Adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Optional: add a splash of lemon juice or a dollop of sour cream to brighten the flavors.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy your comforting homemade cabbage roll soup!
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
- Use brown rice instead of white, but increase simmering time to ensure it’s fully cooked.
- Adding a dollop of sour cream or a squeeze of lemon enhances the soup’s flavor and richness.
- This soup freezes well; store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
- You can omit the cayenne pepper if you prefer a milder flavor.
