If you’ve ever loved the comforting flavors of cabbage rolls but wished for a quicker, heartier way to enjoy them, you’re in for a treat with this Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe. This cozy soup captures all the savory goodness of traditional cabbage rolls packed into a steaming bowl of rich broth, tender cabbage, ground beef, and vibrant spices. It’s an easy, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, yet light enough to enjoy any time. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to become your go-to comfort dish for family dinners or when you need something truly soul-soothing without a lot of fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet flavorful ingredients is the key to making this soup sing. Each component plays a vital role — from the hearty ground beef that adds depth, to the fresh cabbage bringing both texture and bright flavor, to the spices that make the whole pot aromatic and inviting.
- 1 pound ground beef: Choose lean for a healthier option or regular for more richness.
- 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and a savory base to the soup.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a warm, aromatic kick throughout.
- 1 small head cabbage, chopped: The star vegetable that provides crunch and absorbs all the delicious broth flavors.
- 2 carrots, sliced: Adds a subtle natural sweetness and beautiful color.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Provides acidity and freshness to balance the richness.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Gives the soup a smooth tomato base and thicker texture.
- 4 cups beef broth: The flavorful liquid that ties everything together.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a mild smoky depth and beautiful hue.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings earthy herbal notes reminiscent of classic cabbage rolls.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering.
How to Make Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks, until it’s fully browned with no pink left. This step builds the foundation for your soup’s rich and savory flavor. Once browned, drain any excess fat if you desire a leaner soup—this helps keep the broth clear and light.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Next, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with your beef. Stir and cook until the onions become translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes. This creates a fragrant base that gently sweetens the broth and complements the meaty beef perfectly.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Tomatoes
Now, stir in the chopped cabbage and sliced carrots—they bring wonderful texture and color contrast to the soup. Follow with the canned diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. The combination of diced and smooth tomatoes gives the broth a delightful balance of chunkiness and velvety consistency.
Step 4: Pour in Broth and Spices
Pour in the beef broth, then sprinkle the paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper over everything. Give the pot a good stir to distribute all the flavors evenly. The spices will fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting aroma that’s truly irresistible.
Step 5: Simmer for 30 Minutes
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes. This slow cooking allows the cabbage and carrots to tenderize while letting the flavors meld into a harmonious comforting broth that tastes even better the next day.
How to Serve Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley on top can elevate this soup to restaurant-quality. The sour cream adds a cooling creaminess that balances the slight tang of tomatoes, while parsley offers a burst of fresh herbal brightness.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up every last drop. For a light side, serve alongside a crisp garden salad to complement the warm, hearty soup without weighing you down.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in bread bowls for an eye-catching presentation that’s also practical. You can also customize the soup by adding cooked rice or even small pasta shapes to mimic the classic cabbage roll filling more closely, making it an even more fulfilling meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making leftovers deliciously rewarding.
Freezing
This soup freezes wonderfully, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Simply transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot throughout. Avoid boiling to keep the texture of the cabbage and beef tender and intact. Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
FAQs
Can I substitute ground beef with another protein?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works great if you want a leaner option, and even plant-based crumbles are fantastic for a vegetarian twist that still gives you that meaty texture.
Is it necessary to use both diced tomatoes and tomato sauce?
Using both adds a beautiful texture contrast—diced tomatoes give little bursts of freshness, while tomato sauce creates a smooth, rich base. You can adjust the ratio depending on your preference for chunkiness.
Can I make this soup spicy?
Definitely! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when adding the spices to give this soup an exciting kick without overwhelming the comforting flavors.
What can I use if I don’t have beef broth?
Chicken broth or vegetable broth are great substitutes that will still add plenty of flavor. Just keep in mind that beef broth has a deeper, beefy richness that complements the ground beef perfectly.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your broth and tomato products don’t contain additives with gluten. Always check labels if you’re cooking for someone with gluten sensitivity.
Final Thoughts
You’re going to love how this Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe delivers all the nostalgic flavors of your favorite cabbage rolls in a bowl that’s easier to make and perfect for sharing. Cozy, filling, and bursting with taste, it’s a recipe to keep close for those times when you want a warm, comforting meal without the hassle. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become one of your cherished kitchen staples!
Print
Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting Homemade Cabbage Roll Soup captures the classic flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in an easy-to-make, hearty soup form. Ground beef, tender cabbage, carrots, and savory tomato-based broth combine with aromatic spices to create a warm, satisfying meal perfect for any day.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small head cabbage, chopped (about 4 cups)
- 2 carrots, sliced
Tomato Mixture and Broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
Spices
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is fully browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook them together until the onions become soft and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Vegetables and Liquids: Stir in the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and beef broth. Mix well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Season the Soup: Add the paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir the seasonings into the soup to distribute the flavors.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 30 minutes so the flavors meld and the vegetables soften.
- Serve: Ladle the hot cabbage roll soup into bowls and serve immediately for a delicious, warming meal.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Adding a splash of vinegar or a teaspoon of sugar can balance the acidity of the tomatoes if desired.
- For thicker soup, simmer uncovered for the last 10 minutes to reduce excess liquid.
- This soup can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
